I came upon an interesting conversation via a podcast and it really resonated. I hope it does with you, too.
Here’s the thing: Sometimes we actually choose the second-rate version of ourselves. OUCH! Why would we do that?
Let me give you an example: Each year when I do the Daniel Fast for the first 21 days of the year, I feel GREAT during and after. Eating healthier, incorporating regular exercise, a diligent focus on sticking with a solid wake-up and nighttime routine coupled with less social media… it’s a game changer for me. So, why would I not live my life this way every day of the year? It’s a really good question.
I am guessing that a trained psychologist would say it is because we are accustomed to and find comfort in our routines. I mean, I really like queso and I do enjoy reading about the lives of those I love via social media.
Trying to find that “balance” of how you can “have your cake and eat it too” is the challenge we all face. My point of view is that it comes down to framing the question in a way that moves us to the potential negative side of the equation. For example: What happens if I choose more queso over having more energy and a healthier body?
I find myself living on the edge of this…trying to find the right mix of both. I suspect each year I try to “lean in” to the healthier side a bit more — but maybe only a tad bit. (The unfortunate part, however, is that as you age, the body isn’t as forgiving of that basket — or two — of chips!).
How about you? Sharing is caring, and I know we would all love to have a dynamic community tackle this topic of how to choose the best version of yourself. After all, it is there that we are meant to be, and there that we are able to serve the very best.
Hi Lori,
What you speak of is captured in Paul’s questioning of himself in Romans 7:15. To paraphrase, he wonders why he knows what he does is wrong and he does it anyway! How can that be? Because we all live in a world of temptation. Believer or not, we are all tempted. Even choosing to be the second best version of yourself is a temptation perhaps because many believe they are not good enough to select the first version. Or if they do select the BEST version it will mean committing to something that is to hard to maintain. The BEST version of ourselves is how God sees us despite our flaws. It’s the love of a parent to their child. Even on the bad days we see the best. Even on our bad days God sees us as thought the lens of a loving parent. If we could only, for one minute, in our temptation to be less than what God has see ourselves like He sees us, our lens on life may change…at least for a while. The great news is that as believers with the Holy Spirit, we can tap into that strength everyday to fill our “Best” buckets until they overflow. Your Daniel fast isn’t really a fast. It is a FEAST of focusing in on what the Holy Spirit can do in your life when you really take time to tap into God’s power and awesomeness.
Thanks for sharing
Blessings to you
Thanks for pointing that out- I love how scripture really has all we need to live a good life. ?
OMG! This is exactly what my Trainer and I talked about today!! I am definitely an “ALL” or “NOTHING” gal in my exercise/nutrition/water program. Striving to reach that BALANCE between the” ALL” or” NOTHING” swing of the pendulum is most challenging. I believe that balance is: MINDSET/ATTITUDE….what is between the ears!!!
I guess my attitude needs to change to choose the BEST version of myself! Thanks Lori for the push to get what is between my ears RESET.
Oh Tom! He is so brilliant! We all do it though… we just have to keep praying for discipline and wake up every day and give it another shot! ❤️