Reluctant beginnings
It’s another year! What’s something you want from it?
For me, the start of this year has been a bit hectic. For me, it’s been too much of a swing from the validated tiredness and sense of completing a hard year to a restarted beginning. It’s simply been an unwanted leap too far. For me.
I’ll be the first to admit. I struggle with the “grind” and the “hustle”. With the 9 till 5. Remaining in the same building for most of my waking hours each week has and will probably always be a disconnected idea between me and my ideal reality.
But, it’s something I’m working on to at least understand. And it’s something that will take me a season, or two, to achieve more and more.
Different for everyone
However, I know that that’s not the reality for everyone. Yes, some are like me but still do it. Yes, some are like me and wouldn’t step foot in an office. But yes, also, there are people who truly love it and for them it’s the right place to be. So, each to their own.
We all have different stories. And I’ve known that for much longer of course, but the realisation of it at this stage of the new year sinks in deeper. Specifically with work. Each of our working days looks different. Whether we like them or not. Whether we want them or not. They’re all different.
Work is important
And work is important to talk about because work is a significant factor in our lives.
It’s something we spend so much of it doing. It’s what, more often than not, reflects who we are and even maybe the stages we are at. It teaches us lessons and puts us in positions to grow. Our role in work is important to understand. We are called to work, we each have roles given to us by God.
But perhaps, you are similar to me. Perhaps, you’re not feeling the best as we go again.
Maybe you are a bit confused as to how in line your work is with your calling. Or whether you’re feeling called to do it at all. You may have doubts that you are making an impact, a difference, or even being heard. You may be tired of your job, or your lifestyle. You may simply be over it.
Or, rather, you may be extremely excited for what this year has in store for you. This year may have new opportunities for you. Maybe, you’ve finally started to garner some momentum, or maybe you’re simply starting to build your foundation and settle in.
Our identity is not in work
Whatever situation any of us are in, it is important to remember that it doesn’t make us who we are. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the idea that our identity comes from our work (probably because it is something we spend most of our waking days doing), but we know where we find our identity. And it’s not work.
Honestly, my role in work is something I simply and personally want to understand more of throughout this year. So much so that I wanted to share a bit about it now. Also, because maybe, as we start again in 2021 it is the same for some of you too.
Do it with God
Whatever it looks like for you, whether you’re in a similar situation seeking your purpose in work, or something completely different: delve deep, dig in and do it all with God.
I was more anxious at the beginning of this year than I had been for a very long time. But I gave it all to God. And God took over from there.
He has made my situation clearer bit by bit, day by day, and it has only been just a small portion of what the remainder of this year will be in comparison.
So I look forward to seeing what He does in the rest, and I hope you enjoy what he’s got in store for the rest of your year too.