It looks like these girls have missed their path.
Ah, autumn, the season for corn mazes. We stroll off between the stalks, map in hand, sure that this time we will find our way through without getting lost. And then somewhere around checkpoint number 8 we realize we’ve made a wrong turn.
Sometimes life is like that. The good news is that we may be able to recognize when we start down the wrong path and turn around before we get hopelessly lost.
Hopefully these ten warning signs will help you stay on course.
- Always having an excuse for not spending time with others: I’m working late. My schedule is booked solid. I’ve got to catch up on e-mail/reading/paperwork. The most important things in life are our relationships. When we ignore them, intentionally or unintentionally, everyone suffers. If your schedule really is that tight, it may be time to rethink your priorities.
- Your focus is on pleasing others: Being kind to others and satisfying your boss’s expectations are fine, but when everything you do is to make someone else happy, your life is out of balance.
- Saying no when you wanted to say yes: You cannot live life to the full if you never take risks or try new things. Making mistakes and looking a little foolish at times are the cost of embracing a more interesting and fulfilling life. Don’t be afraid to say yes to something just because you’re not certain you’ll like it. You won’t know until you try, so go ahead and try. Related post.
- Saying yes when you wanted to say no: We’ve all been “guilted” into activities then resented having to do them. And yes, sometimes being a mature and polite human requires us to do things we’d rather not, but if you find yourself doing a whole list of tasks you hate, it’s time to learn how to say no. You need to find ways to serve others that bring you satisfaction rather than resentment. Related post.
- Ignoring all hobbies: A life without interests isn’t … well, interesting. Pursuing a hobby or learning a new skill is good for us on many levels. If you find yourself neglecting the things you used to love, ask yourself why. Are you too busy, too stressed, feeling too low to care? I may be that picking up that paintbrush or guitar is just what you need to de-stress and bring a smile to your face. Related post.
- Too many unfinished projects: Most of us have an unfinished project or two collecting dust in the back of the closet, or lying in pieces in the garage. But if it seems you never finish anything, that may be a warning sign. Don’t let the perfect photos in magazines or Pinterest ruin your enjoyment of the process. The first time we try something it will not be perfect. That’s OK. We should never be afraid of finishing just because the end result doesn’t measure up to our ideal.
- Not practicing what we preach: Actions speak louder than words. We may say that exercise, or healthy eating, or spending time with our parents is important, but what matters is what we actually do. If we’re logging more hours watching TV or drooling over Pinterest posts than we spend doing what we claim is important, we need to reevaluate. It may be time to unplug.
- The glass is always half-empty: (with dirty fingerprints, a chipped rim, and dead fly) If you find it difficult to find reasons for gratitude each day, you may be looking at life through a lens of bitterness. Studies show that choosing to look for reasons to be grateful will make a person happier. Try it. Related post.
- Hanging out with people who don’t share your values: Spending too much time with negative people is toxic to our soul—even when those people are successful, popular, or powerful. Don’t get dragged into trying to impress the Joneses when what they stand for contradicts what you really care about. Be yourself, and choose friends who encourage the best parts of who you are.
- Refusing to admit you need help: Humans were designed to live in community, to help and be helped by others. It is noble to serve others, but it is also noble to have the courage to admit when you need others to serve you. The wise person knows their limits and accepts help with grace and gratitude. There is no shame in being imperfect, only in believing that accepting help makes you small. Related post.
