Did you know the path to clear leadership can never be fully accessed until we reach a state of peace?  

‘Hmmm,’ you’re probably thinking … 

As you read this, you may be wondering how to get to a place where you’re experiencing true peace.  Well first let me say, this is not about having a ‘kumbaya moment’ or spending time away at a fancy retreat.  Not that doing so is a bad thing!

Peace is neither a statement that everything in your life is in perfect order nor that you understand everything about what’s happening in and around you. Because frankly, that’s impossible.  I think the only time we’ll get to that place is when we’re no longer on this earth.  

So how do we pursue peace on the path to clear leadership? 

First, we must focus on laying the foundation … setting your intention to be still.  In the busy-ness of our lifestyles, with everything going on in this season, including the hustle and bustle and uncertainty all around us — sometimes it can feel darn near impossible to still ourselves.  Yet, the first thing we’ve got to do is set our intention — in this case, a routine — for stillness.  

I know, I know.  You may not even be able to imagine yourself sitting quietly in a given space for fear that if someone walked by and saw you, the person might think, “Is she OK?”  Or you might be wondering how to still yourself with kids running around, laundry to wash and fold, or tasks to tend to around the house. Trust me, I get it!

Let me clarify … this is not stillness in the sense of nothing-ness. 

On the contrary, this is carving out brief pockets of time throughout the day — 1 to 2 minutes, even — to breathe deeply.  Intentionally slow your body and mind down.  Even rest your head on a table to express a moment of gratitude.  It’s amazing how taking just a few moments to pause can help you walk into an activity or project with increased clarity — the hallmark of clear leadership!

Second, we must decide that the pursuit of peace is more valuable than the ‘high’ we gain from chaos.  (Repeat that a few times out loud!).  We often say we desire peace in our lives; however, when we look closely at our actions, they’re actually more in sync with the chaos.  We answer our cell phones at every turn … even during ‘down time.’  With every invitation, ‘yes’ flows from our mouths. We invite sadness, drama, and mayhem into our homes by watching everything on TV, soaking in noise on top of noise.  If even passively, we participate in the gossip of the day.  Finally, we ‘like’ posts on social media that we don’t really even care about! Need I say more?

At other times, we inadvertently allow situations that arouse busy-ness, mindless activity, stress, and anxiety, none of which benefit our lives or allow us to experience clear leadership. Did I mention the ‘high?’

So today, I invite you to set the intention to still yourself and choose peace.

You’re worth it.

Your family is worth it.

Your service as a leader is worth it.

Make a conscious effort to choose a few sacred moments of stillness over busy-ness.  Your ability to lead with clarity depends on it.

Here’s what I believe, my friend.  Clarity is on the way.  And peace is the key.

Do your part, and get ready for what awaits you!

I’d love to hear from you as you apply these two practical strategies in your daily life: https://www.facebook.com/DrMekel. If you’re interested in learning more about managing your lifestyle, love, and loyalties to God and others, click here: https://mekelharrisphd.com/.

XOXO,

M.