I struggle with rules because something about "you have to" triggers the philosophical side of me and I start seeking an alternative path/option.
I'm not a person who believes there is only one right way to do anything. Mostly because I find it boring and more importantly because I tend to be a bit rebellious. Hence why I live and teach by the "define YOUR success" theory that is rooted in an individual's values. I don't believe nor teach that "success" looks and feels the same for everyone. How can it? We are all built completely differently, from different backgrounds, and for different purposes.
As someone who has experienced various forms of success and failures, I have a clear definition for myself, my son, and my business. And while I won't go into the details, I will share the simple standards that help keep me on track.
1. K.I.S.S (keep it simple sweetie) method:
Overcomplicated is unnecessary and there is beauty in simplicity. No matter the scenario or circumstance I always seek the most efficient and effective option. Mostly because I'm low-key lazy and I also understand that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line…so I take it. In brief, I value working smart over hard.
2. Plan & Implement:
My mind is going 100 miles per hour most days with new ideas. To transform my ideas into reality, I have to dedicate time to creating a step-by-step plan (strategy) and more importantly, I have to carve out the space to implement and execute the necessary steps. Freedom is the result of discipline. Because I value my freedom more than anything, I do the required work that moves me forward.
3. Focus on the WHY:
Running a business is not easy. There will be moments and sometimes seasons of extreme stress, doubt, and even chaos. During my storms, I focus on WHY. Why did I start? Why do I serve? Why it matters? And Why God chose me? By focusing on the WHY, I immediately tell my ego to "sit down, shut up", and allow my spirit to take its rightful place as the leader of my life.
4. Outsource:
As a recovering control freak, this is still one of the hardest decisions I make. But the more I do it, the easier it becomes. I outsource everything I hate and anything that requires more than an hour or two of my time. If I'm spending hours on a task someone else can do in minutes, how the hell does that make dollars and cents? It doesn’t.
5. Stay open:
Although I'm a planner I've learned the importance of leaving space for the unexpected. By being flexible and not being cemented into my plan, I invite opportunities to transform into blessings. Staying open also helps strengthen and trust my instincts.
6. Surrender:
You and I cannot control the timing and/or the outcome, nor is it our job. It is our job to show up, do the work, move with excellence, and trust that God's got the rest. Surrender is not just a process, it is a strategy all by itself. It is not the easiest to implement or master, but it is the most important.
Your definition of success is probably completely different than mine, as it should be. But I promise if you will infuse these 6 simple steps/standards into your current strategy for life and/or business you will see a shift of growth and development.
WHO AM I?
I’m Kandis Troutman, The Creative Architect. I'm a mother, teacher, and spiritual seeker focused on purpose walking, and serving others. I help women activate their God-given power so they can transform their purpose into a prosperous business.
Thanks for reading my post. I try to publish new posts weekly, but I believe in leaving room for God, which means there are no guarantees. But check in often and let me know what content awakens your spirit and I’ll be more than happy to share my experiences.
If you enjoyed this post, I’d appreciate it if you would like, comment, and/or share it on your social media. A sincere THANKS IN ADVANCE!
Don’t allow your life to become what you should have done or what you wish you could have accomplished. Instead, step into the greatness that is your destiny and start creating, building, and elevating the life of your dreams.
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