I once heard this true story: There were two
explorers in 1910 competing to see who could get to the South Pole first. At
this time the South Pole had not yet been explored. Both explorers had
different approaches on how to accomplish this goal; Both started from
different points of land based on what they had researched, both took different
men, animals, gear, and modes of transportation (ie. horses, dogs, and sleds).
Team #1's basic plan was to travel only on days that were weather permitting.
They were very fast on the days that had lots of sun and they covered lots of
ground. But on bad condition days they just made camp and rested until it past.
Team #2 traveled 15 miles every day no matter what the weather conditions
were. On sunny days they traveled fast and got to rest. On snowy days they took
their time but always made the 15 mile 'ish" mark with little to no rest
at all. Which explorer made it there first?...................... Think about
it for a second?.......................... I would of thought Team #1 because
of all of the rest they were able to receive. This made it sound like they were
able to stay strong. But, actually Team #2 made it there first and quite
honestly, much quicker! Team #2 also made it home. Where as Team #1 actually
ended up dying, YES dying! Because of a couple factors such as 1) they did not
have a goal that they could track day to day. They pressed on and on but only
when it was easy to do so. They started farther away from the South Pole
compared to Team #2 because the explorer knew it was easier terrain to climb even
though it was more miles to cover in harsh conditions. Just to climb an easier
surface.
When I read this story it really brought a new sense of realization that
I could implement into my own life. By following Team #2's example of having a
measurable goals in my day-to-day life would really help me be a mother. You
may ask what any of this has to do with being a GIVER? As moms know, being a
mother and wife is all about giving! Giving of one self. You LEARN to be
self-less as a mother. And though some days are harder than others that’s what
we are called to do on an minute-by-minute basis. I have learned to ask myself
"What is my 15 mile march?” Team #2 made it to the South Pole first
because they had A goal (to get to the South Pole). Than, they had an every day
goal of going 15 miles a day. They knew that was a measurable, POSSIBLE every
day goal.
Many moms (including myself) feel like they have to have everything
together. Their houses, their children, their marriage, their car, themselves
etc..... But many end up feeling run down and exhausted not having enough
energy for themselves or, their marriage. SO, this is what got me thinking
about my 15-mile march. What can I do on a day-to-day basis that will help make
my life easier as a mother and in return have a happier, relaxed atmosphere in
our household? This is hard to accomplish with little ones when they depend on
you 24/7. But I knew I could do silly things like: wash and fold ONE load of
laundry everyday (this sounds easy but it's not every day! Though, it is
Possible). I can pick up the kitchen after every meal, I can schedule out my
days based on what lies ahead for that week’s goal, I can make "me
time" and get refreshed so I can be a better mother and wife. These are
just some of mine but finding out what I live for and what drives me helps me
determine my goals. And that’s exactly what Goals are…Goals can evolve, they
can be manipulated. Setting goals helps me not be overwhelmed. It helps me to
have enough to GIVE a little to everyone! This concept has changed my and my
families’ lives, and really brought freedom to many different areas of our life.
I challenge you to find your 15-mile march. Set measurable, possible
goals that can be accomplished no matter what the circumstances might be. This
causes you to be honest with yourself and those around you. It helps you track
and SEE your achievements and gives you motivation and perseverance. Your drive
will start to increase. This is a great model not only for mothers but any
individual or even a business. Trust me it works!
Figuring out what means the most to you, and what you want to do about
it can really add hope and future to your everyday life.
No comments:
Post a Comment