Lately, I have been faced with many obstacles to continue with my program. One of the obstacles includes student funding. I was just informed that the student financial assistance I have been receiving will not continue.
While working out at the gym yesterday, I was listening to the CD, "Making a Difference", by John Maxwell and I was inspired.
Maxwell defined real problems from predicament. He defined a problem as something you can do something about; whereas a predicament you can’t. In my situation, there is nothing I can do about the decision made to deny me of student funds.
He indicates in his book that once you can assess whether your obstacle is a predicament or a problem, you can address it accordingly . In my case, I have problem and I have to just accept that this agency will not fund me any longer .
At that moment, I was struck with complete fear. My mind began to spiral in utter fear and thoughts ignited around; “how would I finance my school, how will I support myself and the thought of becoming homeless."
I immediately went into survival mode of wanting to quit the program and find a job. I began having doubts about the direction in my life and whether I should continue with my MBA.
But I remembered reading one of Obama’s biographies and he too experienced self-doubts early on in his political life. He shared some of his challenges and how he had self-doubts about whether he was doing the right thing or following the right path. Now, look at where is in life now. He is the president of the United States!!!
If I allow my fears to take me out, it will rob me of my dreams.
Having self-doubt and feeling fear is a normal reaction to have, especially when faced with obstacles and challenges. But that is all that they’re, just feelings. It is important not to feed into your fears and over re-act too quickly. However, it is also important to acknowledge your fears and doubts so that you can move on.
People give “life” to their fears when they act on it too quickly. My fears are valid and I am not ignoring them. They’re healthy fears and I’m aware of the consequences if I do not act on my situation. But at the same time, I will not give up “quickly” and take the easy way out. First, I will exhaust every avenue and see what else is out there for resources.
John Maxwell also indicates that once you determine your situation is a predicament and that there is nothing you can do about it, you must focus on moving on and not waste any time on the subject. Sometimes, people fall in the trap of being a victim and need to tell the world what has happened to them. Maxwell says this is an energy drainer, which robs you of valuable time that you could be using towards finding solutions.
He reinforces that your attitude in how you approach the challenges will determine your success in overcoming it. It is important that I spend more of my time focusing on what to do next and not wallow on what has happened, especially if I cannot change the outcome. I do not need to be a victim in this situation but rather I can rise up to the challenge.
I am not ready to give up. I will remain persistent and determined! I have decided to pursue other options for funding, such as scholarships and look into other resources. When there is a will, there is a way. It just depends on how bad you want it. I truly believe finances will come my way. I have faith and hope that things will look up and I will connect with the right people in the universe who will see my passion and compassion to complete my MBA program. I need to believe that, even in my darkest days.
Enclosed is John Maxwell's website if you're interested in buying any of his books or CDs. http://www.johnmaxwell.com/
Thursday, August 13, 2009
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