Steady Effort
Do one small thing
Steady consistent effort is key, simply by doing one small thing.
Steady consistent effort is key, simply by doing one small thing.
Recognising that you’ve outgrown something—whether it’s a job, relationship, hobby, or even a lifestyle—can be a challenging but necessary step in personal growth.
I find we hold onto familiar things out of comfort or fear of the unknown.
Yet, life is constantly evolving, and outgrowing certain aspects of it is a natural part of this journey.
As a coach, I’ve discovered that there are some tell-tale signs that it’s time to move on.
One of the most common signs that you’ve outgrown something is a feeling of stagnation.
You’re no longer learning, evolving, or feeling challenged in a meaningful way, manifesting itself as boredom or frustration.
At work for instance, you might find that your tasks have become monotonous, with no opportunities for advancement or development.
Or in a relationship, it could feel like there is no deeper connection or emotional growth happening.
If you feel stagnant, it’s time to re-evaluate your goals.
Ask yourself what you really want to achieve and whether your current situation is helping you get there.
Set new goals that challenge you, and make small steps toward them.
It could mean seeking a new job, learning new skills, or communicating openly with others about what you need for growth in relationships.
When you’ve outgrown something, feelings of frustration, dissatisfaction, or even resentment often start to surface.
You may feel like you’re stuck or wasting your potential.
In relationships, this can manifest as constant arguments or feeling emotionally drained.
In a career, it can feel like you’re simply going through the motions without any real fulfilment.
If you consistently feel unhappy, it’s important to acknowledge your feelings.
My favourite is journaling, I know it can help you reflect on what’s causing these emotions.
Or with the help of a coach or friend, identify whether the frustration stems from something you can change within your current situation, or whether it’s time to move on entirely.
You may need to set boundaries or have tough conversations, or it could be time to explore new opportunities that align more with your values and passions.
Another sign is a growing sense of disconnection.
Things that once brought you joy, excitement, or passion may now feel empty.
You might feel like you just don’t belong.
Take time to reconnect with yourself by engaging in self-reflection and mindfulness.
Spend time figuring out what excites and energises you now.
This could mean rediscovering old passions or trying new activities.
If you feel disconnected from a social group or relationship, it may be time to seek out new connections that resonate more with who you’ve become.
As we grow, our values and priorities often shift.
You may start to realise that what once mattered most no longer aligns with your current beliefs or goals.
This could happen with friendships, jobs, or even personal habits.
For instance, a career path that once seemed ideal might no longer align with your desire for work-life balance or personal fulfilment.
When your values change, it’s crucial to realign your life accordingly.
Begin by making a list of your current priorities and values.
What’s truly important to you now?
Once you have clarity on these, you can begin making decisions that align with your new values.
This might mean changing careers, pursuing more meaningful hobbies, or prioritising different relationships.
If you frequently find yourself daydreaming about a different job, relationship, or lifestyle, it could be a clear sign that you’ve outgrown your current situation.
These daydreams often reflect unmet desires or unfulfilled potential.
Rather than dismiss these thoughts, explore them further.
What is it that you’re yearning for?
Is it adventure, creativity, a deeper connection, or more freedom?
Once you’ve identified your desires, start taking concrete steps toward making those dreams a reality.
Research new opportunities, network with people who are in fields or lifestyles that interest you, or create a plan to gradually transition into something new.
Outgrowing something is a natural part of life, and while it can feel unsettling, it’s also an opportunity for growth and renewal.
A coach can help you along your way.
By recognising the signs—stagnation, unhappiness, disconnection, shifting values, and daydreaming—you can take proactive steps to move forward.
Whether it’s setting new goals, engaging in self-reflection, or seeking new challenges, the key is to embrace change and create a life that aligns with your current self.
If you’re in that space now, message me, I’m happy to listen and help…
Every week, finding new people with which to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ, is a challenge.
Missionary work is finding people, teaching them and helping them to come unto Christ.
Since 2017 in Belgium and the Netherlands non-religious people have been in the majority.
Indeed, recent censuses show that those following no religious belief is increasing.
𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞.
It is irreversible and irreplaceable.
This year has been very different from others gone by.
For the last 10 years, I’d coach circa 15 people one on one, and have around 100 – 200, sixty-to-ninety-minute coaching conversations a year, in amongst my many other professional activities.
This year, I’ve coached circa 150 people one on one, and have had around 1000 – 1200, twenty-to-forty-minute coaching conversations, in amongst my many other missionary activities.
It’s been a little busier, very different, more intensive and a little more tiring too!
However, I absolutely love it!
In amongst all of those coaching conversations, there have been many incredible discoveries made.
Amongst the many coaching techniques, I frequently use, is a very simple one, it’s akin to judo.
The word judo consists of two Japanese characters, ju, which means “gentle”, and do, which means “the way”.
Judo, therefore, literally means the gentle way.
I did say it was simple!
This is the model.
• Invite them to share their story
• Ask questions, to create curiosity and to explore their journey.
• Share a personal story as an alternative view.
• Review – what can I do better?
As you review 2022 and reflect upon all that has gone by, perhaps you can ask yourself this question too…
“What could I have done better?”
Recently I was asked; “How do I improve my self-discipline?”
It requires time and effort on your part.
It also requires the development of daily habits by reminding yourself often why you need this ability and how it will help you achieve your goals in life.
Remember the little poem…
Finishers wanted.
Stick to your task, till it sticks to you;
Beginners are many, but enders few.
Honour, power, place and praise will come, in time, to the one who stays.
Stick to your task, till it sticks to you;
Bend at it, sweat at it, smile at it, too;
For out of the bend and the sweat and the smile
Will come life’s victories after a while. (Anonymous)
Focus and self-discipline are the foundations for producing truly amazing results and performance.
Plato said: “The first and best victory is to conquer self; to be conquered by self is, of all things, the most shameful and vile.”
Consider these ideas…
The path may be tough, but the results are amazing.
The pain you feel today, will be the strength you feel tomorrow.
It starts with you – begin now!
Why do you think self-discipline is important to your progress and happiness?