Preparing for Opportunity

Continuing the thought From Problems to Opportunities, I want to share details on ways we can go about changing our perspective by breaking down each of the five points mentioned. To recap, go to: From Problems to Opportunities. 

STEP 1: Purposefully adopt a new way of perceiving yourself and situations by realizing who you are and what good qualities YOU bring to the table. The word purposefully means that you have a specific purpose in mind, you are acting purposefully and not in an uncontrolled, unregulated manner. This is important because we are often in situations or environments that make it easier for us to: loose control, return to unhealthy behaviors from earlier years (in some cases back to child-like tendencies) and remain in unhealthy environments. In order to adopt a new way of seeing things, ladies – we must first see ourselves differently.

Seeing ourselves differently is a chance for us to examine and assess ourselves emotionally, physically, mentally and professionally. How do we gain a new perspective? 

1. Patiently observe and take inventory of your interests, behaviors, etc. Give yourself the measure of grace and space you kindly give to others as you face who you are (and in some cases, who you have been) during this transition. During this time, grieve your current and past hurts and prepare to move on.
2. Acknowledge your current situation and the role you have played. Often, when we're unhappy in situations – our workplace, relationships, finances, etc. – we tend to gloss over our role in creating the situation. Consider the behaviors you've exhibited over the years, and commit to refining and using more of the positive behaviors that have worked. Fully admit to yourself your role in negative and/or hurtful experiences – whether they were hurtful to you or someone else.
3. Set goals. Identify short- and long-term goals and commit to achieving them. A short-term goal is typically something you can accomplish within three months. A long-term goal could be something that takes two to five years, or even longer. Don't be intimidated by goal setting and potential failures. The most successful people have failed more times than they have succeeded, but had they given up you'd never know their name. 

For even more ideas on gaining a new perspective go to: Living Fabulously Fierce Factor #11-Valuing Yourself. On this blog, Farah Bernier discusses "Self Valuation" and asking hard questions on "How Do You Feel About You" as well as "Leveraging Positive Factors" (my favorite). 

Love you to life!

POSITIVE AFFIRMATION: "I am ready and willing to release the past, now."

For additional prayer visit http://tabernacleofpraisemin.org/ or call 781-963-5300.

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About the author

Sharon has a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. She combines her experience as an art director, understanding of healthy child development and therapeutic interventions to offer interactive art and talk therapy to clients. Sharon is a wife and mother who is passionate about family life and early childhood development and education. Sharon is known for her commitment to God, excellence and family; comedic wit and ability to empathize with others. "Love you to life!"