Another Chapter Completed
Tonight marks the last night I’ll spend in this condo. My movers confirmed their arrival at 10am tomorrow and I’ll be off on another adventure. This particular phase of my journey will involve most circumstances I’ve avoided. It’ll be, in my belief, the last opportunity to squelch doubt and abide in His grace. It’ll be my chance to remove myself from distraction, narrow my focus, isolate, and complete those things essential to my progress.
Another chapter completed, and another chapter begins. Each builds on the other and is unable to be written, read, or lived without the one before. The last year involved numerous experiences, most pleasant and some not. It contained some grief, depression, elation, anger, remorse, and frustration.
I’ve learned that all believe they are entitled to my time, yet none are. I’ve learned that I enjoy befriending all, and most don’t deserve my friendship. I’ve learned that access to me and my insights has immense value, and I can longer diminish my worth. I’ve learned that when I don’t charge a premium for my expertise, I foster a belief in others of access entitlement. Luxury brands don’t go on sale. Couture designers don’t offer discounts. Bespoke tailors and cobblers require reservations and retainers.
For decades I’ve actively denied myself access to the echelon I’ve earned. Eagles don’t soar with chickens. In fact, they’d suffer a miserable existence if they tried as it’s not their nature. I’ve chosen to blend in versus stand out and my results have been mediocrity, condescension, and in other cases disrespect. Those days are over.
Today, Friday, July 21, 2023, I am grateful that:
Courage has returned. There’s a thing about fear and its paralyzing effects, stopping us from doing those things we know must be done. I chose last night to terminate two contracts. I even issued a refund on one. My reasoning was simple - those contracts were costing me more than they made me. It’ll be the same thing as I move to premier echelons of service providers. Denying, firing, and refusing to work with certain clients and organizations will become a normal instance. Last night was a litmus test of things to come.
I had a concise and candid conversation with one of my contract providers. I expressed my concerns and we’ll see what happens moving forward.
Shirley helped me get so many things completed with the move today. It’s great she was able to come by and was willing to assist. My move is less stressful as a direct result of her help.
What’s your echelon?
At what level do you dwell?
What’s one thing you can do today to align those two levels?
Be Great. Be Grateful!!!