E-couragement: Good or Good
Our coaching agenda was set. Shortly after my client arrived, I sensed we might go in a different direction. He wasted no time, “Rich, here’s what we need to talk about today…” My client explained the pending shift in his professional career path. Soon his location would be eliminated. He spoke of the decisions that loomed and the potential options available to choose from. I could sense this imminent change creating doubt and uncertainty. His body language reflected a loaded barbell yoked across his shoulders. The next hour and a half evolved into an open and honest conversation about something we all face: change and choices.
As we spoke, I reflected upon a similar experience. A decade ago, after fifteen years in the health and fitness industry, I found myself seeking a new path. I told my friends, “I’m excited to have several excellent options to choose from.” Yet, inside, I was burdened and fearful; my incongruence made matters worse. The insight I needed showed up while on a solitary run.
I discovered the belief causing my internal disconnect. When I faced approaching change, a voice inside would take over: Okay Rich, you have a choice to make. Choose carefully as one option will turn out good and the other bad. I had carried the thought that my choices were always between good or bad—that familiar angel and devil propped up on my shoulders battling for supremacy. That afternoon I finally understood, in most cases I was actually choosing between good or good. Either decision would turn out well for me. A tremendous burden was lifted with the awareness that I was no longer responsible for picking between good or bad instead, I was free to choose between good or good.
I shared this experience with my client. It resonated with him as it had with others. He sat taller with the weight across his shoulders removed. After more discussion, we came up with four steps that would help him navigate this important event:
- Clarify the paths. Initiate conversation with people who can help or provide insight from their own experiences. Seek guidance. Ask questions. Listen intently.
- Listen to your heart. Consider the options that become apparent to you. Which one makes your heart move? Which one feels like the best fit for you?
- Decide. Trust yourself. You’ll make a smart decision. Remember, you are not choosing between good or bad, but good or good.
- Take action. Jump in with full force. A new journey will have its difficulties. It will not be easy. It will challenge you. This is what makes it exciting.
There you have it. Most of our life choices are not between good or bad (Should I shoot my neighbor or not?), they never have been. Often, challenging life decisions are gifts in which we get to choose between good or good. No more burdens. Enjoy selecting what feels right for you and embrace the journey that follows.
Leave your comments: How have you effectively dealt with challenging life choices?