If you are like me, you love what you do. Helping others reach their potential is perhaps one of the best feelings in the world. But lets be honest, it requires a lot of work and can be tiresome at times. Pastors spend countless hours studying the word of God for their congregations; Teachers constantly search for educational and creative ways to captivate the ears of their students; Employers work hard to keep their staff motivated and productive; and Mentors/Life Coaches are forever researching the best options and path plans for their clients. Each one of these professions require the person called to operate in them to give unselfishly and relentlessly.
But who's there to motivate the motivator?
Who's there to encourage you when you are out of ideas or simply tired of thinking? Support can be hard to find when the majority of the people you know depend on you. Most "motivators" feel guilty for getting tired and wanting to "get away from it all".
From one motivator to another, I wanted to tell you; it's okay to feel that way. My husband and I have been blessed with the distinct pleasure of serving under some of the most notable Pastors, we've been taught by the best of Teachers and we've worked for some of the best employers; all of whom poured mounds of love and wisdom into our lives. In our nearly 18 years of marriage, Travis and I have taken those nuggets of wisdom and applied them to our daily principles of living. Today, I wanted to share four of those nuggets with you...
It's okay to say "No".
Once people realize the value of your gifts and talents, requests will come in left and right. Some will try to extort your abilities but for the most part, there will be a genuine need for your help. It's important to remember this "You can't fix everyone's problems." Use wisdom when handling requests and don't over extend yourself. Overloading will only cheapen the quality of your work. I've found it easier to say no by also referring them to another business or agency who might be available to help. Don't let the fear of someone else stealing a member, employee or potential client keep you from partnering with others. No one person can do it alone. Besides what God has for YOU is for YOU, no one can take that away.
It's okay to take a time of rest.
I know this might sound a bit redundant but even God rested on the 7th day when creating the world and we are no stronger than he. The human body needs rest and the mind needs refreshing. This can be hard to do when your mind runs even while you are sleep...or attempting to sleep that is. Setting realistic goals and daily to do lists, will help you rest easier. Remember, you can't save a drowning person if you are too weak to swim. You perform better when you feel better. You've been given vacation time. Use it!
Just because you are leader doesn't mean you stop learning.
Continue to study your respective crafts. Take a class, register for a conference, find a mentor or hire a life coach. Times and technology are constantly changing, the life span of your career depends heavily on your ability to remain educated on the "here and now". Also, you need an outlet. Find a mentor or life coach who specializes in your profession but has no immediate ties to where you work; this ensures you will receive unbiased advice in times of uncertainty.
And last but certainly not least, when all else fails, remember Galatians 6:9.
And let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap if we faint not. God sees you and he knows your heart. Keep making a difference in the lives of others and you will be blessed abundantly.
Stay Motivated Motivators!
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