Choose Your Pain

I came across this once before and yesterday in the 'Conversations with Deon'; Action Factory Session, http://actionfactory.co.za/ , it popped up again and I decided to investigate further as it is such a fitting topic for this pandemic season.

Side note: I must give Action Factory, Deon Groenewald and Lesley Callow a big shout out as they started this ball rolling for me and I am in awe of how my life is turning around.

So the first conundrum begins with, If I do x, y will happen. Is y imagined or real?

Truth is y does not exist yet without action and the real question is what will the consequence of that action be. How do we make it realistic as apposed to imagined. How do we break through the fog of our desire. What factors do we take into account to act for the highest good of all concerned? What pain will be involved and is it worth it?

So after everything I learnt, I completed the following exercise.

Step 1: The pen is mightier than the sword

Take out a pen and paper

Pick a quiet spot with no distractions

Insert Heading: I desire...

Step 2: Investigate

Fist question; Is it SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timeous)

Second question; on who and in what way will this have an impact?

Third Question; Does the Impact of this justify the cause?

Fourth Question; What steps are required?

Step 3: Decide

If you know in your heart that this is meant for you and that you are in heart, mind and body fully committed to your purpose, decide and take action accordingly.

Step 4: Get those that it will impact onboard

Discuss this with your people. Tell them the idea, the plan and the consequences and explain and ask how those consequences may benefit them. Be transparent.

I feel I have to elaborate.

Scenario 1: An executive decision that has an impact on the company and its people.

We do not have the money to keep all staff.

What's the plan? Have you considered all options as above?

What is your decision based on your investigation?

Discuss openly and with transparency

For example, in some instances this is a blessing in disguise as it will force some people into taking action on something they have been afraid to. It's all about perception. To the people who have been retrenched; have you considered what space this is opening up for you? What possibilities are out there? What opportunities serve you?

Scenario 2: Following a career move that has impact on ones family

What's the Plan? Have you considered all the options as above?

What is your decision based on your investigation?

Discuss openly and with transparency

We may have to cut back or live minimally for a while but when all manifests we will have abundance. A case of taking action now and reaping the reward later.

Working through a step by step, penned, exercise can assist in moving through the fog and also in seeing the forest for the trees.

Once you have clarity you can begin the process of moving toward a purposeful outcome.

The key is to live with purpose. There is pain in everything but with purpose there is also a positive outcome. i.e. no pain, no gain so choose your pain.

_____Candice Hess_____