With Christmas just around the corner, I’m reminded of a story we shared at the beginning of the pandemic.
The Stockdale Paradox… Click here for a quick refresher
The premise is that we need to be rationally optimistic, face the cold hard facts, and be committed to getting through a challenge. The more challenging the event, the more we need to embrace it with a mindset that it will be the defining event of our lives.
I’m so thankful for this lesson early in the pandemic. Had you told me we would still be in it for a second Christmas I would not have believed you. But we are here, and it has been a challenge unmatched in my lifetime.
So, please take a moment to reflect on two things: How to “finish well” in 2021; and how to look forward to 2022 with rational optimism.
For some, Christmas is itself a challenging time.
Whether that’s true for you or not, ask yourself these two questions:
What would make me smile from ear to ear this Christmas… and in 2022?
What would frustrate, aggravate or annoy me this Christmas… and in 2022?
Then, divide each list into two perspectives: what I can control and what I cannot control.
Now you have two lists…
The first list is where I focus my attention – on those things where I have control. Focusing on these things will have a profound effect on both the end of 2021 and my preparations for 2022.
Perhaps the dust is settling, and this exercise will replenish you… refuel your energy.
What about that second list… the ‘I cannot control’ list… it’s fuel too. I used mine to start a bonfire in our backyard!
“It’s your determination to take control of your life that drives how fulfilled your life will be.”
– James F Grebey
