February Mind Candy
Lesson #2
I work harder for someone else than I do for myself :(start point)
I have a new understanding of whom I work for :(end point)
Let's start with the harsh reality of my acceptance in working harder for someone else's business than I did for my own. For over a decade, I had clocked in and reported to someone. I worked within the boundaries set for me, but now I created the boundaries. I became the sales department, the researcher, the talent, and the advisor, and it all felt so overwhelming many days. I would grow comfortable in one role, then neglect the others. My back office days generated no income, while my front office services generated immediate short-term profit.
There were days when showing up to my Salon did not feel like it mattered; I didn't have any appointments booked that day anyway. I had days that advertising did not feel necessary; no one was paying attention. Days led to weeks that led to months of realizing I needed help; I needed accountability. I needed a team. Being an employee, I had to tell someone when I didn't show up. And now, although I didn't have to check and balance with anyone, I would immediately feel the effects in my business. My daily decisions were either investing in my business or neglecting my business. Simply showing up, especially when it felt like it didn't matter, impacted my momentum every time.
Showing up is what I had control over. Doing what I said I would do —opening the doors of my business even if no client walked through fueled discipline. Advertising my business because I believed my services benefited my community was challenging. Holding myself accountable in best business practices created new obstacles for me.
I was disappointed that showing up for someone else felt more manageable. Showing up as an employee granted me the leisure to not think, blame the company policy and execute the tasks that someone else had created for me. Discounting a product and service for someone else was not an option as an employee - but for myself, it was easier to devalue my time, my service, and my product. WHY? Because I was making it about me. And whenever I make things about myself, I get stuck in my head and become my worst critic and victim. I battled deceptive thoughts like "something is wrong with me, I can't do it, I don't have enough experience, I'm not qualified" until I embraced who I ultimately work for.
Colossians 3:23-24 KJV
And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance; for ye serve the Lord Christ.
Colossians 3:23-24 AMP
Whatever you do (whatever your task may be), work from the soul (that is, put in your very best effort), as (something done) for the Lord and not for men, knowing (with all certainty) that it is from the Lord (not from men) that you will receive the inheritance which is your (greatest) reward. It is the Lord Christ whom you (actually) serve.
I decided to increase my knowledge of WHOM I work for, understanding that my work ethic represents myself, values, and integrity. The more I seek understanding of God, the more I know myself.
The best part about working unto the Lord is knowing that He holds my best interest at heart. His policy is not restrictive yet protective; therefore, I give Him all the glory. I work unto God because He has provided the gifts and opportunities to serve others, contribute to my community, and witness my faith in the world. Miracles flow from God through me. I am a co-creator of life.
My attitude and my effort are my responsibility. Whether I am an employer or an employee, my belief systems create my perspective. I cannot control what happens to me, but I can control how I respond. Regardless of your environment, title, or workplace, I encourage you to take pride in your work. Let your work ethic demonstrate your excellence. Cheers to commitment, community, and excellent stewardship!