With These Three Stones

On the courage of Mr. T, pursuing purpose and conquering my personal giants.

By Amy Englemark

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“I remember that … even though my hands are small, they are endowed with power to move mountains.”

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Hello, to all you SheLoves readers … As this is the first time I’m writing for SheLoves, I’m feeling somewhat vulnerable and a teeny bit scared! I figured that was a good place to start from, though. A place of openness and honesty about my imperfections! It’s not easy to share my struggles with people I don’t really know yet, but as I get to know you (and you me) these fears will disperse. I’m also discovering that the more I share my story and acknowledge my imperfections, the more I free up others to do the same.

Over the last one and a half years I’ve been training to become a Coach. The decision to pursue this career took courage as I felt called to coaching others, but it required a commitment of time and finances. My life was already full and my time was already occupied with my two kids (two and four at the time). The passion and peace I felt when I thought about this career decision overpowered the jitters I felt, so I jumped in.

I now have just under eight months left to go before graduation. The process has been extremely gratifying and every time I take a class or coach a client, I get confirmation that I have definitely made the right choice.

I must say that I have met a few giants along the way, though. These giants that have tried to slow me down, make me believe I’m little, powerless and that maybe I should pursue something else–something that won’t require as much of me. As I continue to run into these giants I’ve learned a few things …

I’m learning that I need to carry a slingshot and several well-picked stones with me at all times. Ammo. I need Ammo and I also need to have the courage of Mr. T. I’m referring to what is required of me in order to pursue personal greatness. I need Mr. T’s courage so the giants I run into don’t intimidate me.

I need to have peace.

I need to know my worth.

I need to know what my priorities are in life in order that I may live triumphantly, with purpose, moving forward at a STEADY rate.

Some of the giants that hold me back, (if I let them), include: Fear, Insignificance and Distraction. Interesting combination! I am unique, so the giants that plague me need to know where my weak spots are. Which makes me think, “I need to pursue these giants with as much intention as they pursue me. I need to know what holds me back from greatness so I am not held back any longer.”

—>Conquering Fear

Throughout my life, Fear has tried to throw me off course. Sometimes his tactics have worked, but in the last few years I’ve noticed that when I get scared, I simply need to decide what action to take. Action is one of the stones I carry in my pouch. When I start taking action on something that’s in line with my values, more opportunities open up and the “unknowns” I was afraid of, become known.

—>Power to Move Mountains

Insignificance tries to plant lies in my head that I have a small future. That I won’t amount to much. That I’m the same as everyone else and should settle for mediocre. Yuck. I have never liked being anyone but me. When I hear these lies I pick up another stone–a round one that always hits the mark: Truth. I plant my own seeds in my mind. I remember that I am fearfully and wonderfully made, that even though my hands are small, they are endowed with power to move mountains and that I have been given dreams and desires for a purpose, not to hide them in some dark room.

—> Overcoming Distraction

Distraction, the last giant I mentioned, may indeed want me to hang out in some dark room and watch movies four nights a week. That would be relaxing, fun–and hey! I deserve it. BUT, I would not be using my time effectively. If I spent an hour a day sitting in front of the computer or chatting on the phone with friends, that adds up to seven hours a week or 30 hours a month where I am not focused on what I really want to be focused on. Don’t get me wrong. I love social time and need relaxation but too much of it takes away from a bigger and more profound calling that I long for.

When I am distracted I kneel down at the river and pick up Focus, so I remember what’s motivating me to pursue my goal. One more shot of ammo. Three stones should do the trick.

Taking action, remembering the truth about myself and focusing on what’s important to me, these are some of my weapons. I love knowing what resources I have to draw upon when I really need them. I’m learning and will continue to learn that I am bigger than any giant.

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So, on our journey to pursuing our personal greatness, here are some questions and suggestions:

1. What giants are standing in your way?

2. What action do you need to take to conquer them?

3. We all need someone we can trust and be accountable to. Do you have such a person or persons? This week, find someone or a few others you trust and be accountable to. This will help you remember your commitments and stick to them. I’d love to hear how it’s working out for you.

I look forward to more sweet smelling, crisp Autumn weather, as well as any feedback you may want to share,

Amy

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About Amy:

I am currently studying at the International Coach Academy to become a professional certified coach. I could spend 90% of my life outside. I love hiking, mountain biking, travelling and any sort of adventure. I like to jump from the highest rock into the deepest water. I like to shout for joy.

Image credit: Woodcarver, by Stephen A. Wolfe