letsloveothers

For the past fifteen years I have been on a transformational journey. Becoming a woman after God’s own heart— a jewel of incomparable worth.

In my quest to become this person, Proverbs 31:10-31 has been an invaluable source. Teaching me how to live a life of excellence. So both my character and actions honor the Lord.

Character does not happen by chance. It takes work, diligence and perseverance. It also requires a spirit of excellence. Something exemplified in Proverbs 31:19.

Her hands skillfully place the unspun flax and wool on the distaff, and her fingers twist the spindle until thread forms.

The key words in this passage are skillfully and until.

Do you know anyone who

• jumps into everything without doing his/her homework first?
• make it up as they go?
• fail to count the cost before they begin?
• never finish what they begin?

OR

• never tries anything new unless forced by others or circumstances?
• blames others or circumstances for the mediocrity of their life?
• needs constant ego stroking?

Yes, a life of excellence is difficult. Even so, you have a mandate from the Lord. You are to do the best you can with the gifts and abilities He has given to you. To pursue excellence so that He is glorified.

What can you do to develop a spirit of excellence?

Think before leaping off the cliff into the unknown.

• How much time are you willing to invest?
• What are you willing to forsake to do it?
• What happens if you fail?
• What happens if you do not even try?

Practice makes perfect.

• Improves skills.
• As proficiency increases, the overwhelming feelings that go with the learning process decrease.
• Decreases the amount of time required to complete tasks.
• Strokes the ego.
• Knowing you did it once before. Makes it easier to undertake future risks. 

Go with the flow.

• Be flexible.
• Experiment, tweak and adjust.
• Prepare yourself for the inevitability. It will require more time and hard work than you think.
• Quit being a perfectionist. Excellent, not perfection is the goal.
• Everything is temporary and subject to change. The difficulties of today are the stepping stones to tomorrow’s success.
• Take the initiative when opportunities present themselves and become a risk taker.

Never stop learning.

• There is always room for improvement in all phases of your life.
• Step out of your comfort zone and do what you have never done before.
• Read books and articles. Listen to podcasts. Watch videos. Go back to school.

Keep your eye on the prize.

• Each of us only has only 24 hours a day. Choices must be made. Something will have to give to achieve excellence in all you do.
• Accomplish what must be done today without worrying about what must be done tomorrow.
• Say no to people or activities that are distracting.
• Clearly define priorities.

The pursuit of excellence must be motivated by the right values, priorities and motives. Knowing God sees our work. Common, everyday things are to be done in uncommon ways. Whether in the presence of others or in anonymity.

Regardless what you do. It deserves your best!

In a culture that lusts for speed and quantity. Excellence is a growing anomaly. Which makes it all the more valuable. A treasure that is worthy of your pursuit.

Be a VOICE in the deafening sound of sameness!