As you get older, you may start feeling like it’s too late to do some things. Too late to get married. Too late to have kids. Too late to start a family. Too late to start your business. Too late to go back to school. Too late to change your diet. Too late to just start living!
Whatever you’re currently facing may be new to you but familiar to someone else. Hard for you but manageable for someone else. Desirable to you but undesirable to someone else, so learn to keep some stuff to yourself. Otherwise, that feeling will never leave.
You must be careful with who you confide in because one’s opinion might shape your belief or curve your decision. However, sometimes people don’t intend to be malicious or shady in their comments. It’s not always meant for you.
As an opinionated person myself, I used to make mindless comments because I would talk so much. I can honestly say I have never meant to hurt anyone with my words in informal or formal conversations. Consequently, I’ve learned to talk less and listen more, especially when talking to people I’m not well acquainted with. Though I’m still pretty talkative at times, I’m more careful with words.
Don’t listen to naysayers
Never let someone’s opinion dim your light and stop the execution of your plan. You were made for something bigger than someone’s opinion. But if you’re also afraid of what others might say or think, then you’ll stop the execution of your own plan with fear.
Learn to accept constructive criticism
We all love good conversation and positive energy, but we must also learn to accept constructive criticism. A good friend or family member may not always tell you what you want to hear. They’ll tell you what you need to hear instead. No one can decide on your future but you. However, you should want your loved ones to at least try to keep you from making a fool of yourself.
Let’s say one feels like it’s time for you to bear a child because you’re in your late 30’s. You want a baby so bad, you start sleeping with this married man. In conversation with a friend, you admit that the two of you don’t always use protection. Your friend immediately comments on how you’re going about things the wrong way; then you get upset. Not only did she check you on one bad decision but two.
Don’t take everything personal
If you’re a sensitive person, you should stay off social media and avoid watching stand up comedy. You can’t always expect kindness, comfort, and positivity, especially from people who don’t even know you. However, if you follow the right people, you just might get that. Some people post just to get a reaction, and comedians are paid to tell jokes, even if it means playing on your pain.
Wise up
Whatever it is you want, tell it God, not people. Sometimes He will use people as a conduit and speak through them, but you must always use discernment.
“Time isn’t to be wasted but neither is your life. Let God lay the blueprint so it comes out right.”
-Bianca A. McCormick-Johnson ✍🏽
Check out my books by clicking the links below:
I’m G.O.O.D. – Volume One
I’m Still G.O.O.D. – Volume Two
