As much as I’d like to, I can’t do everything. I’ve lived enough years to come to terms with the fact that there are simply some things I am not cut out to do. I will never be a figure skater, violin virtuoso, astrophysicist, or computer hacker.
Yes, I believe in my potential and my ability to learn new things. Yes, the possibilities are virtually limitless. But even out of all the things that I could do, I know I can’t do them all. I must sharpen my focus, or I will become overwhelmed and ineffective.
In a recent article that appeared on Lysa TerKeurst’s blog, author Emily P. Freeman put it this way:
“Possibility can be as overwhelming as it is inspiring. At first it can feel terribly exciting to imagine anything is possible—until you sprint flat into the wall of your own limits in the form of lack of energy, bad timing, comparison, competition, and distraction.”
Freeman goes on to ask a very good question that deserves serious reflection:
“Could it be possible that your limits–those things you curse and wish were different about yourself–are not holding you back but pointing you forward?”
The point she makes is this: You are not designed or equipped to do every job. You have your limits. But you are specially equipped to do the job meant for you. You’re not a failure if you can’t do everything, but by trying to do everything, you’re pursuing the wrong goal. Instead, sharpen your focus to that one thing you are meant to do, and let other people around you do their jobs too.
How about you, have you been trying to do “everything?” Do you need to accept your limits as guides to what you uniquely are equipped for?
Take the time to think and reflect on the questions above, and then commit to sharpen your focus!
To read the full article by Emily P. Freeman, please click here.
