Flying With the Eagles

It is necessary to associate yourself with like minded people so that you stay sharpened in your field. The greatest T-shirt I ever read (okay maybe not the greatest, but certainly the most meaningful) said "It's hard to soar with the eagles when I'm surrounded by turkeys." Follow me for a second. In Ice Age The Meltdown (go watch it if you haven't already seen it). A mammoth who is raised by possums believes she is a possum and often attempts to climb trees and hang upside down from her tail. She also plays dead when eagles fly overhead, in fear they will carry her off like they have done in the past to one of her possum uncles. Are you shaking your head realizing how ridicules that sounds, well imagine how ridicules you look attempting to fulfill your purpose surrounding yourself with people who have no interest in helping you reach your full potential.

Although I'm only 25 (with 8 years experience come May 3), I am a huge fan of Nikki Giovanni (the poet, I certainly hope you knew who I was talking about). In one of her poems she reminds us that some believe we are responsible for those we love, but those who are wise know that we are responsible for those who love us. People who truly support you will pour into not only you, but your vision. They will never become so consumed with their own agendas that you are not important. The concept of "irons sharpening irons" means you are to build one another, this should not be a one-sided relationship. If you find yourself without the ability to think regarding your own purpose after conversing with someone and assisting them in becoming a better version of themselves, then it is time to disconnect and cut ties with the relationship. This doesn't mean you should call your mother and tell her to jump off a cliff because she never supported your dream of becoming the first 6'7" overweight ballerina at 45 years old, I'm simply saying now is the season to move yourself into position of fully walking in your purpose and not allowing others (or yourself) to detour you from the vision. Set a goal, and set milestones along the way, and get there. You don't need to reinvent the wheel, grab others to mentor you. There is a difference between a mentor and an idol. A mentor will hold you by the hand and share information, resources and energy with you to reach your potential.

Don't be afraid of moving beyond your current circle of influence. Call that person whose card you received at that business luncheon you went to six months ago. Make yourself known within certain circles. Stop volunteering all your time and request money for your time, you are worth every dime. When I first started Orangeview Family Services my consultation fee to speak one-on-one with families was $100/hr. Because I stopped believing I was worth it along the way I stopped charging. My time spent in meetings became longer, and my income declined. Say it with me! NO MORE FREEBIES!!! As I refocus on personal business ventures, I'm excited about what lies ahead. My new motto is "ask with a straight face." The only thing someone can tell you is no. It's a small two letter word, it doesn't physically cause damage when said, and you will survive it. Eagles rise above it all and soar where the air is clear, above the smog and fog and reach their full purpose and potential. Make the decision today to be an eagle.