Walk the Line

Have you ever walked down the street or during a drive down a straight road you looked in the distance and everything was a blur. Although a little hazy, you thought you knew exactly what was in front of you, but as you got closer and you finally arrived, it looked nothing like what you expected? I believe those are the times we are living in right now.

Some of us are anxious about the present, and trying to predict the future, but what once was a fast changing world, has become a rapidly changing world. It's not monthly or weekly, things are drastically changing in sudden moments. It can be difficult, but our response cannot be fear and anger, without action.

We spend too much energy watching, waiting, and commenting without movement. It's time to watch, wait, assess, and act. When things are changing at a rapid pace, it's important to prepare. The economy is changing, the political climate has shifted, and technology is drastically altering how we communicate, connect, work, and live (again). While some are afraid of AI and it's impact, others are embracing it without question because people have become obsessed with convenience.

Whether you are on one extreme or the other, or you reside in the middle, it does not matter. Change is upon us and it's not too late to begin preparing for the inevitable shift. I want to share some insight on things you can focus on during this time.

1. Start the thing! In a changing climate, it's important now more than ever to be connected with your purpose and your passion. You would think that the time to start or invest is when things are settled, but if you start now you become a part of the movement and as things settle you are already established in the new way. Start the business, learn about investing, and increase your knowledge.

   
   

2. Do your research. If you are afraid that the industry you are in is being replaced by technology, now is the time to research and shift. Although there are jobs that are being replaced, there are also jobs that are being created. Research job and market trends. If you are going to school for an industry that is declining, it might be time to shift your focus. It doesnt mean change the industry, it means research how it's changing so you can be a solution.

   
   

3. Minimize your exposure to unnecessary information. We live in a world where information is always available. We consume too much, and the only person that can set that boundary is you. Be intentional about what you read, watch, and listen to. Many of the roller coaster emotions you are experiencing are coming from what you consume and how long you consume it. Limit it, be more intentional about what you choose, and use more time and energy focusing on the information you need to prepare for what's next.

   
   

4. Silence is important. Make sure you make time for meditation, prayer, and silence. Sometimes we are unable to identify the difference between our own thoughts and the thoughts of others. We are constantly surrounded by noise and distractions, and it is difficult to make sound decisions in chaos. Still your heart and mind so that you can think clearly. If that is difficult for you, start small with 5 minutes per day, and as you discipline yourself, increase the time.

   
   

5. Be adaptable and flexible. Sometimes we get in our own way because we are unwilling to alter our plans, goals, or processes. Things that used to work, will not work anymore. That is not a bad thing, it is just evidence that things are changing. To stay relevant and connected you have to be willing to change, shift, rework, and be open to support and suggestions. Use wisdom, but be a little more open. The end result can and will happen, but the path to get there may be different than what you expected.

I encourage you to use this time wisely because we are standing at the threshold of new. We don't like all the things we see, but let this be motivation to get things in order so that you are positively impacting the unavoidable change. Some of the best opportunities are birthed out of what is uncomfortable.