A couple of weeks ago, I was presented with an opportunity that sounded very good. It was a meaningful and prestigious work opportunity that seemed very much aligned with my career goals. The person that presented it to me was very clear that it would require me to submit a bid, and that I was not guaranteed to get it, but he thought I was a perfect candidate and felt some level of certainty that the offer would be made to me.
Life and Leadership In Harmony
I agreed to pursue the opportunity and carefully began to develop my strategic plan for winning the bid. The more people I spoke with, the more I understood that this would be a very good opportunity, but it probably wasn't a fit for me.
It was easy for me to see that the demands of the role would require me to abandon much of the work that I have developed over the past ten years. The benefit would be the stability associated with it, but the more I considered it the more I could see that it would require too much of me.
It was true, that this opportunity would provide me with work close to home that would allow me to be more involved in the lives of my children, but it didn't seem like it would fulfill my career aspirations. The fit was not there, so I passed on the opportunity. It was a difficult decision, but I know it was the right one for me and the organization. I felt great harmony as I notified the organization of my intent to not pursue.
The Enemy of The Good
The decision became much easier, when I sat down to evaluate the opportunity. It was then, that I was able to set aside the emotion, and the goodness of the opportunity so that I could consider my values. I didn't take me long to see where it was aligned, and where it was not. Once I saw that, I was able to move forward without worry, regret or remorse.
As I sat thinking, I was reminded of a phrase my friend Eddie Peterson often says – "The enemy of the great, is the very good." This opportunity was in fact very good, but it seemed like it would place conditions on my ability to be great. I feel a terrific energy behind the work that I do, and I am certain that my hard work is about to pay off. Each day, I become more focused. This very good opportunity would have answered some of my short term needs, but it most likely would have hindered many of my long term goals.
When we are clear about what we want, we are able to say no to good things that might actually become distractions. The very things that may prevent us from rising to the next level are often very tempting to pursue. It is hard to say no to them because they are good, but if we want to become our best, we must be clear enough to let them go.
What good is standing in your way of becoming your best?
Are you willing to trust your vision and let if go?
What can you do today to ensure that your vision is seared into your conscious and unconscious efforts?
I am sure that this will not be the last time that I will need to make a choice between the good and the great. I know that greatness comes to those who are willing to go for it. That is where I find myself today – standing on the edge of greatness and taking the leap of faith that is required to reach for something more. See you at the top!
Live Today! Love Today!
760-559-3548
