Having the Courage to Try Something Different

Have you ever been so certain that you knew exactly how to do something and that your way was the best way and that bending wasn't an option?

 

I'll raise my hand here and admit, that yes, I have done this, more than I can count. I get so stubborn and think that there couldn't be a better way to do the very task that I had set out to do, and so I continue to do it the only way I have come to know how. Until one day...I decide to try something different, because what harm can be done?

 

To my surprise, I discover that this new way, the one that I avoided doing things all along, was not only easier, but so much better for me in the long run. So what changed?

 

The best example I can give you to picture what it is I'm trying to say is this: When it comes to writing a book, I used to think that I was a pantser (discovery writer) and that plotting was cumbersome, wasted my time, and was rarely used when I did write since I was a discovery writer. Until last year, when I worked with a writing coach who not only told me the importance of plotting, but taught me the proper way to plot for the genre I was writing in at the time (non-fiction). What I learned was that having a proper plotting structure actually helped me tell a much better story. 

 

This year, I am working on book one in my romance trilogy that I have put off many times now. I spent all of October plotting out the structure this story should have, making sure that I don't miss a single pivotal moment. During plotting I discovered holes in my timeline that had to be worked out before I could even start writing. There were days where I questioned if all this extra work would be worth it and actually help me when it came time to write my story, and I'm happy to report that it has been game changing. I can stop and start writing and not worry about forgetting where I left off or not remembering if I touched on something crucial because my outline points me in the direction I need to go. 

 

Now that you've heard my example, consider an area of your life that you are driving blindly. It's the only way you've driven it before, and you don't think it could improve by doing it any other way, despite someone recommending you try. Now think of this same area of your life, and imagine how much better your situation could be if you tried the advice you were lovingly given. Could it improve? How would you know if you didn't at the very least try?

 

I have learned how powerful community is. Community can be many different things and there are many different communities you can be a part of, but ultimately, the important thing to remember is that each member of the community brings unique and valuable gifts to the table. You have gifts that you share with the group, just as they have gifts they share with you. 

 

Imagine with me that you have the greatest gift in your hands that you want to share with someone, anyone really, at the table, but nobody will take it. How does that make you feel?

 

If you are like me, it likely frustrates you. So let me ask you this, why won't you pick up the gift being extended your way by someone in your community? Help comes in so many forms, and those we are closest to usually can sense exactly what it is you need before you can. Having discernment in knowing what gifts are safe to pick up and what gifts may turn out to not be a gift at all is important here too. 

 

I want to encourage you to consider an alternate possibility in your situation. What is something different you can try?

 

May you have a wonderful week!

 

With Grace, Shonda