Here at LearnDoBecome, we help those who are drowning in the details of life to develop simple systems so they can do what matters most.
And while we LOVE all the STEP Command Centrals that are popping up around the community, our deeper goal is to help each member of LearnDoBecome to live his or her personal mission and truly thrive.
Today we have a brief story and some thoughts for you to consider!
First, the story:
One day, when our daughter Alia was just 3 years old, she came out of church holding a little cup with seeds at the bottom. No dirt. Just seeds.
Her class had talked about faith being like a seed, and inside the cup, she’d drawn some grass and a little flower going up the side.
I was surprised because it was a pretty small cup, and I couldn’t figure out how she had been able to maneuver the crayons to draw the flower. So I asked, “Why did you color the flower inside the cup?”
She simply responded with this: “I wanted the seed to know what it could become.”
I remember thinking, “Wow, this is a lesson For ME.”
I think each of us feels a natural pull to become someone better. (That pull feels heaven-sent to me.)
We want progress. We want to know that the struggles we’re experiencing will one day be in the past. We want the thrill that comes from growing in beautiful ways and achieving those visions we’ve been dreaming about all our lives.
And we all need hope that it is possible to get there.
Now, a question for you to consider:
As you’re thinking about who you want to become, and as you’re searching social media, attending conferences, reading books, listening to podcasts, etc., what kind of mentors are you looking to follow? What attributes, characteristics, etc. are you looking for in those who have gone before you so that you can feel inspired and lifted along the way?
It might be too much to expect that we’ll find one person who matches every detail from our list, but when we’re clear on what we’re hoping to find, it’s amazing to see the kinds of incredible people (and beautiful insights) that cross our paths.
And one more thought…
If you ever feel discouraged because you can’t see the example you’re searching for (someone with the same background, same challenges, same situation, with the same goals), consider the idea that perhaps that is who YOU are to become.
Perhaps the exact circumstances that feel heavy right now will become the foundation of hope for others in the future.
It’s easy to see the gaps in our lives between where we are and where we want to be, but we would never criticize a seed and say, “You’re not living up to your potential.” It’s still in a seed state. And it’s the same with us.
The process of growing and “becoming” may take some time. But because each of us had the privilege to wake up this morning, that is exactly what we have.
My hope is that as you architect your life alongside others in this community, you’ll continually clarify the vision of who you are truly meant to become. Your STEP Command Central will help you get there, but it only works if you know where “there” is.
So glad you are with us!!
Your LearnDoBecome CHALLENGE: Take a few minutes and write down some specific things you are looking for in your mentors. How have they overcome opposition? What kinds of goals have they reached? What kinds of relationships have they developed? What most inspires you about them? Save this brainstorm and reflect on those thoughts when you are identifying your own goals and personal mission. (Excited for you!!!)
Related Resources
Every one of us feels multiple gaps in our lives. We want to have, do, or be something better than we are. This post contains three ideas to help us all more fully appreciate what these gaps can help us to become. Check it out here!
If you haven’t yet attended our free workshop, COME! We can’t wait to help you out. Register here.
You also won’t want to miss the simple, actionable ideas in our free guide: Five Life-Changing Habits Most People Overlook.
Thanks for being with us!!
April (& Eric)
This was an amazing story and lesson. I would like to share this story and what it means to me during my leadership meetings with our team. May i have permission to do so?
Of course! You’re welcome to share the photo, too. (If you can please just mention it is from LearnDoBecome.com?) Good luck with your leadership meetings!
Does that permission reach to us all? ?
Of course! I’d love this message to spread! Thank you!
That is the cutest thing! Out of the mouths of babes!
This was such a beautiful and inspiring post and podcast. It was exactly what I needed to hear this morning. Thank you!!
I’m so glad it was helpful to you! My hope is that it can inspire additional thoughts and ideas… I know I only have a TINY portion of all the great ideas and perspectives out there, and while I often feel inadequate sharing my thoughts, I know that there is a larger community ready to take the ideas to the next level! So happy you are with us!
This was just what I needed this morning to feel motivated to become a better version of myself! I have felt static fro so long. It’s often difficult to find tour way back to yourself when dealing with a child’s life-threatening illness (my 21 yr old son is okay now). Add to that, unbelievable grief and loss, of far too many people that should not have left our lives so early in their journey, and yes, “piles” started and haven’t stopped. Working full time, getting home at 7pm or later every night doesn’t allow much time for life, let alone cleaning. This is the year of the purge! I CAN become the mentor/teacher I haven’t had to deal with my current state of affairs! Thank you for planting the seed….
This brought tears to my eyes, Cindi!! You have been through SO much, and you’re carrying huge responsibilities. I have no doubt that you are going to see miracles happening in your life. Sending a huge hug!!
Thank you, April. I go to your messages for little reminders from Spirit — because in your pondering, questioning, struggling, visioning, dreaming, praying 🙏, God has gifted all of those with whom you share, glimpses of possibilities, light, and so much love. Thank you for allowing yourself to be this beautiful messenger 💜
Your comment made my day! Thank you so much, Marilyn! I know I have a lot to learn, and I am grateful to God for all the help and “lift” He gives me. So happy the work we do here has been helpful to you. Keep up the great work!