Stop Letting Others Steal Your Joy

So I did this thing.

The last few weeks have been long and tiring, yet rewarding and humbling.  And they’ve given me some time to really reflect. As I opened another business, my dream store..  Oak+Ash, a home boutique. I’ve seen a community of women, friends and strangers, encourage and support. Something we could all use a little more of.  It’s something I have wanted to do for some time now, but the timing has never been right.

I’m not sure the timing is ever right. And at this time in our lives I might just be a tad bit crazy…  Whether in my case, if it’s waiting for the right time to open a business, change your career or job, have children, get married.  I mean there is always something keeping us and piercing doubt into that little mind of ours right? And why is that?

Because in the world we live in we feel like we have to have it all figured out.

All together.

We rely on the acceptance of others, or what they will think, instead of our own happiness. We allow those around us to steal our joy or drive. I’m guilty of it myself, for so long I let what people think of me define me. The echos of people doubting every decision I made or wanted to make. And truth be told it’s still a daily battle to not let the negative people drag me down.

I’ve learned that most of the time those around us don’t intentionally want to bring us down.  They just aren’t on the same path and that’s ok. They may not understand why you want to have three businesses, four kids, and sign up for everything extra {because you can’t say no}. And that again is ok, because they ARE NOT YOU.

In all actuality they may even envy you, not in a bad way or maybe so.. but the truth is you probably envy some part of their walk as well. However, we should not envy, yet rejoice and let it inspire us in our own accomplishments. Encourage those that need it. Because in the end it stalls us, prevents us from moving forward because we are so worried about what others have it keeps us from working toward what we want.

No matter what you want, do it! Get up and go to work. Start working on the “goals” list you have tucked in the drawer. Start saving those extra dollars. Start waking up a few minutes early, or go to bed a few minutes late. Read a book, run a mile, heck take a nap if you need it. Stop letting others steal your joy and rob you of your happiness. No dream or task is too big or small. And most of all STOP making excuses due to negative people around you. Invest time in people who will build you up not bring you down. Do what makes you happy and most of all what brings Glory to the great man upstairs.

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.

 

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