There’s alot of talk about being planned, disciplined, sensible and efficient these days. On this blog I’ve even argued that to really do big things, we need to be laser-focused on those things. From doing the right things, to creating habits and being consistent and ordinary.
But in pursuit of our goals, I fear that we will be so focused on results that we will blow right past the things that actually matter.
NEWSFLASH -
I have just a few memories from my childhood that are crystal-clear, seems-like-it-was-yesterday type memories. One of them was a ski-trip my Dad took me on when I was 12.
I cherish that week because -
Most of all, I cherish it because it didn’t make “sense” to take a 12-year old to an expensive lodge in some of the most epic ski terrain on earth. But he did anyway.
And wouldn’t you believe it! The lessons I learned aren’t what most of us fear when we live outside the lines. My takeaway wasn’t – “spend money you don’t have”, “don’t plan” and “be irresponsible”. Instead, I heard – work hard, bless people and live life with a little flavor.
Thanks Dad.
QUESTION: Where have you gotten too rigid? What can you do to really start living?
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Do you ever wonder what God wants you to do? Does following his will feel like a one-sided game of wild goose chase? Is your ambition and energy fading because of a lack of clear direction?
I have felt this way a lot.
But God is a Father, and so am I. So when I think about my will for my two year old Sonny, I think about God’s will for me. And recently, the picture became clearer.
One of Sonny’s favorite games, is “Daddy Fit-It”. This is his attempt at saying, “Daddy, Fix-It” and it involves him reaching into my tool box for a screw-driver and poking it into whatever project I’m working on.
A few weeks ago I was working on a desk, and Sonny ran over, screw-driver in hand to “help.” He was focused and intent as he jabbed at a few screws, and celebrated triumphantly when the project was finished. It doesn’t matter he holds the screw-driver on the wrong side. When we work, Sonny believes he is vital and I am OK with that!
When Sonny sees me working, he doesn’t have to…
I could work with or without his help, but I’m his Dad, I want him around. I don’t shut the tool box on his fingers or hide the assembly instructions to keep him at bay. Instead, I plop him in my lap at the center of the action
Sonny could grab pliers, a screw-driver or hammer and I would find a place for him. What is important isn’t what skills or merit he brings to the table, it is my desire to let him participate.
Maybe I’m oversimplifying, but I can’t help but think God is the same way. Even though he doesn’t need us. He loves when I yell, “Daddy, Fit-It!” and come barreling into his world. He’s given me and you different skills and interests. But if I show up with tools, God’s got something for me. And if I grab the biggest, baddest tool there is, you better believe he gets excited!
Don’t wait until your role is crystal clear, your skills are perfectly honed or you get the angelic invitation. For Sonny, seeing Dad at work is all the invitation he needs. Bob Goff writes in his book Love Does, “We’re not just a cosmic biology experiment that ended up working. We’re part of God’s much bigger plan for the world…”
So next time you feel lost, wondering what God would have you do, look around. Where does God’s work and your desire intersect? Go there, pick up a tool and “fit it”.
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Too many of us undervalue what we do.
We forget that our time, experience and skills matter. Don’t. You have something that people need.
Consider this -
A woman in Paris spots Picasso in a cafe. She begs and pleads him to sketch her…he finally relents, whips out his pad and draws a sketch of her.
She’s delighted. “How much do I owe you?” she asks.
“$5,000,” he replies.
“$5,000!” she exclaims. “But it only took you 2 minutes!”
“No madam,” he replies. “It took me my life”.
Your value is not simply the time or effort you spent on something. You are not a taxi-cab, don’t charge by the minute.
Together, your skill, perspective and experience, create a one-of-a-kind product that can’t be replicated by anyone. When will you stop ‘building your portfolio’? Is it time to stop fetching coffee to ‘prove yourself’? This belief will get rid of those looking for a “deal”, leaving you with people who have a value based mindset. Their appreciation (and your new found free time), will motivate and inspire you like never before.