Painted by Shelley Stockwell Nicholas for her Dr Shelley's ME deck. shelleynicholas@cox.net to purchase.
What keeps you going in the direction you are headed? Is it for personal gratification? Is it for practical reasons to pay the bills? Or is it something you are good at and it is easy?
Knowing your true motivation is key to keeping you steadfast and committed.
When I worked in the corporate world for twenty-five years, my motivation was to secure a steady paycheck and receive health benefits for my family. I worked very hard and challenged myself on days that I did not feel like getting up on Monday morning. I always did though because I knew I had to get my son with special needs out the door to daycare before the little van drove him to school. I did what I had to do, even though I didn't like what I did. Frankly I was bored, but I served the company well. My parents were from the greatest generation and they taught my brothers and I strong work ethic. I believe most of my generation were taught the same. "Work hard and reap the rewards."
However, I used to feel my soul was crying. I felt my true talents were being wasted even though I was grateful for having a good job. My interest in the power of the mind came to my rescue. I watched how my son's mind was a sponge and took the power of suggestion quite often and literally. Learning hypnosis was the answer and one that stimulated my mind and fed my soul in the process. I honored my feelings by recognizing what truly motivated me. It was a passion that brought much joy and healing for myself and clients over the next thirty five years. By acknowledging my true calling, my life and perception changed; enabling me to be tenacious and do both; my day job and my real sense of purpose.
Now after ten years in retirement from my corporate position, I am still in love with what I do; helping people feel good so they can do good in the world. My motivation has not changed, nor my tenacity. However, I do ask myself, "What is the outcome I want, and why?"
I believe it is important to soul search. It's good to have a direction or vision where you are headed, but sometimes it's better not to be attached to any outcome. If you keep planting seeds, and stay the course, you may just be surprised what God, your business partner, has in store. Like the little engine that could, "think you can, and you will."
So ask yourself now, "Why do I do what I do?" Perhaps you will surprise yourself.
Debra Taubenslag
Author, Speaker, Hypnotist
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