Dear Self
/ Matt ShirleyNow you’re in it.
You've set a plan into play and you’re watching it grow.
Maybe it’s just a trickle for now, but it’s been enough to peak your interest.
It’s enough to determine that what you’ve began you should at least continue.
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This is just a plug, a nod, a nudge to tell you to keep going.
Starting strong was never in question. You began with enthusiasm and exuberance for this fresh idea.
You can see and envision exactly how it’s going turn out. You can imagine what the end product will be like, but you still have to make it happen.
Discipline, persistence, responsibility, punctuality, accountability; it’s these little nudges (sometimes less than desirable) that will set you apart.
These are the words you need right now. You’re reading this because you’re as much susceptible to losing your focus as anyone.
This about keeping your foot on the pedal. Because when it comes to the essence of self-discipline, the first taste of success may make you want to ease up, as if to say,
“I’ve got this. I really don’t have to try that hard after all.”
That’s the deception.
It’s subtle, even elegant sometimes.
What worked you into where you are, is what will work you through the place you’re in now.
Don’t get lax.
Don’t take your foot off the pedal.
When you rest, plan for your rest, then lean into God’s grace as you bolster yourself for the next season of industry.
We are creatures made and conditioned to withstand more than we think we can.
Do the hard mental work. Exhaust yourself when appropriate.
Too many comforts and conveniences will make you soft.
It’s counter-intuitive to press yourself. Naturally, most people take the path of least resistance.
But you’re not most people.
You’re called and bound to a purpose.
Your skillset & perspective is unique.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.”
No one is going to build this for you.
If you don’t build this, who will?
“Go to the ant, you sluggard!
Consider her ways and be wise,
Which, having no captain,
Overseer or ruler,
Provides her supplies in the summer,
And gathers her food in the harvest.
How long will you slumber, O sluggard?
When will you rise from your sleep?
A little sleep, a little slumber,
A little folding of the hands to sleep—
So shall your poverty come on you like a prowler,
And your need like an armed man.”
So keep at it.
Don’t slow. Don’t relent.
The fruits of your labor are on the other side of providence and grace upon grace.
There’s so much at stake…more than what you currently see.
But the best is yet to come.
Humbly and Sincerely,
Self
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