We’ve all experienced situations, events, or just periods in our businesses and our lives where things either weren’t going our way or we were interrupted from our forward trajectory.
For me, this past Spring, it was the trauma of having my car totaled, and getting injured in the accident, that gave me pause. It was an opportunity to take a look at how I was moving in the world and the ways that I was responding to something that I hadn’t planned on, just as I was really enjoying growing my business.
Suddenly, I was stopped in my tracks, by a street sweeper, no less. For several weeks, I didn’t have the energy to do anything other than to see my doctors, and deal with the third-party insurance adjusters, body shop, car dealers, etc. Anyone who has had to deal with any one or all of these entities at the same time, knows what an energy-drain it can be! I found myself getting into combat stance, ready to “do battle” with these companies, and with the world. I didn’t imagine it could be another way, and that I might be able to create a great outcome. I was angry because I truly was a victim in the situation.
A mentor of mine whispered in my ear, “what if you didn’t have to do it that way? What if you could have a great outcome, without the fight?” I couldn’t have imagined it while I was holding all of the events and tasks like the victim that I truly was. Hearing myself talk about it with a trusted adviser, something in me clicked, and then laying down my sword sounded so much more appealing than doing battle, combat for which I am well-equipped as a seasoned lawyer and business owner.
As soon as I laid down my sword and gave up the fight, everything I needed came to me, and so much more – I got a very fair settlement for my car, found a kind and supportive body shop owner to help me navigate through the situation, and a kind and generous car dealer (yes, they do exist!), who helped me land gracefully into my next car, which was a great deal for me, and even let me drive it off the lot without finishing paying for it, while I waited for the insurance check. All of these pieces fell into place for me gracefully, effortlessly, and without having to sharpen my sword!
These experiences really made me take a look at how I want to create in the world, how I want to interact with people, what kind of experiences I can create, just by changing the thoughts in my head.
As soon as I decided to have a great experience with all of these moving parts, and to create an outcome that exceeded my expectations, that’s exactly what I got. I began to look at the experience for the gift that it was.
We may all have heard the axiom that our thoughts control our results; therefore, “change your thoughts, change your outcomes”. It even sounds easy enough to just “change your thoughts”. I know for myself, though, that I could not have done it without the reflection of my own stance to show me how I looked on the outside, and how I might be able to do things differently for vastly different results. I needed the support of a trusted adviser to find, in myself, another way.
Can any of you relate to the kind experience where you might have gotten “slammed” in your business or your life? What did it take for you to create a “beyond what I expected” outcome? And, if you’re still in it, could you use some support to find your way? I specialize in navigating the sometimes life-threatening seas of business life. If you, or someone you know, can benefit from that kind of support, then reach out and let’s talk!
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