Breaking the Mediocre Mold

"We often work so hard on trying to overcome our weaknesses that we never develop our strengths...We can turn something into a HUGE problem when, in reality, it would be a minor nuisance if only we viewed it in perspective with our strengths."  -- Joyce Meyer

I've always been a STRONG advocate of goal-setting and moving a great idea from conception to fruition.  Looking back over the years, my greatest achievements have been related to things that I am adept  in or extremely passionate about.  I guess this makes sense...which is why purposefully setting a large goal that challenges me to my core also petrifies me.

But, I'm learning that easier is not always better.

Sometimes, we have to reach WELL beyond our comfort zone to find and achieve those challenges that scare us.  Moving from scared to successful means that we move with purpose, intent, and understanding of our Higher calling.

When I first read Joyce's thoughts on mediocrity, I couldn't help but to think about swimming.  I know it sounds stupid, but, Ironman's 2.4 MILES freaks me out.  It's one thing to do endless laps in a 50-yd pool, but a whole different situation to swim 4,224 yds in open-water, with a looming cut-off time of 2hrs and 20mins.

Falling into the trap of focusing on the "what-ifs" sometimes seems to be easier than focusing on the "I can's".  Thanks to the patience and humor of several very dedicated coaches, EVERY TIME I finish a workout, I have accomplished so much more than I thought I could.

Perspective means consideration of strengths and how they relate to things we want to improve.  Swimming is only one part of this incredible journey.  And, I know I will get there because:

(Seriously??? This did make me laugh though...)
Borrowed from IMFLA's FB Page.

Strength #1 - I'M COMMITTED...

Strength #2 - I WON'T GIVE UP ...

Strength #3 - I CAN DO IT...

Strength #4 - I WILL DO IT...

Strength #5 - THE RIGHT WAY...
Strength #6 - WITH GOD AS MY GUIDE

Every day, I ask God to help me know my strengths and handle my weaknesses in a way that does not distract me from His purpose.  Because, bottom line, that's the most important part of any goal.