A few years ago, I was traveling for work. My trip involved a connection flight in Charlotte, North Carolina, and the window between my arrival and the second flight was pretty tight. So when I found out that my first flight would be delayed, I became uneasy and worried that I would not make the next flight. Once we landed, I knew that if I had any sort shot of making the flight, I would have to speed to the other side of the airport to get to my gate. So I got off that flight and I picked up the pace. First, it started with a brisk walk, but I recognized that speed walking would not get me there in time. I needed to run!
Running when most people are walking draws attention, and I had a slight concern for how I would look as I frantically made my way through the masses of travelers. But almost immediately, I heard the words “They are not getting on your flight.” That really hit deep, and I ran like heavens, luggage in tow. Eventually, I made it to the gate right before the door closed. As I sat in my seat and looked out the window, I reflected on the chaos of the previous ten minutes. I sure was glad I ran.
Those people I worried about did not know me. Yet, to choose not to run, I would have been willing to miss my flight out of concern for how I would look to total strangers. In life, we behave the same way. We concern ourselves with people who do not know us or even care what we are doing. So we dial it back. We water down our approach. We try to fit into the mold. In doing so, we are preparing to miss our flight, which is where God wants to take you. At some point, if you are going to live a meaningful life, you have to run in public. The first time will feel awkward, but as you develop a lifetime habit of boldness, you become unstoppable.
God has given you a unique travel plan. Please recognize that your “flight” may not look like that of others. Try not to concern yourself with what others are doing and thinking, but of God’s unique travel plans for you. There simply is nothing God cannot use you to do!
Recognize when you are being self-conscious, giving too much concern to the thoughts and feelings of people around you. Go do what you know is right. In the moment, you will feel uncomfortable. But remind yourself: “They are not getting on my flight.”
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“Change Your Thoughts and You Change Your World” – Norman Vincent Peale
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Leadership Empowerment
