Waiting Is HARD

    

    Waiting for your moment of major breakthrough and success to finally reveal itself can feel like an interminable loop of constant worry.  How can anyone not feel the pangs of doubt constantly punching them in the face as they scroll through Instagram and see others posting "how to..." reels after already firmly grasping their goals.  It's annoying and emotionally deflating, to say the least.  But you must watch them to pick up the tips that will quickly streamline your learning process.  You watch, listen, and take notes with the momentary feeling that you're progressing, only to look at the goals you have written down and notice how far you are from achieving them.  "Will I ever get there?"  Those seem to be the words always echoing in the cavernous recesses of your mind. Yeah, it's rough. Very rough.

   So, during this time, what do you do?  Firstly, I won't sit up here and determine what steps you should take next in your life because every person's circumstance is different, and who am I to say what one should or shouldn't do?  Waiting when you feel prepared and on the cusp of reaching your goals can feel like an agonizing slow burn.  

    But what if I were to tell you that this "waiting" period is *drumroll* a gift in disguise!  Surprise, I know.  I know you didn't see that coming, right.  But yes. It is a gift. And a very precious one at that.

    Waiting periods are a gift because they allow space for improvement, self-discovery, preparation, and humility to become priorities in your life.  Utilizing the time given to you before walking through your door of opportunity is crucial so you don't fall through the door.  It is better to be as equipped as possible before heading into a situation or circumstance you may or may not know much about.  

     Most professional athletes start from a very young age to make it to the top of their craft, which takes them years upon years of dedication and practice.  They acquire many skills and disciplines to maintain a consistent regimen of playing at a high level in preparation for their ultimate dream to become a reality.  What is mainly not talked about with these athletes is the patience required during all these years of preparation.  For them, this long "waiting" process can feel taxing and risky, but it is necessary for them to become a professional and for their talents to finally be displayed for the world to see. 

    That said, the waiting period you are in is needed when you are fulfilling your ambitions. I also must keep reminding myself of this lesson as I continue my artistry journey. Refining skills and learning life lessons takes time, and coming to that understanding earlier is best for one's overall psyche and mental health. Patience and consistency are the name of the game during these waiting periods while keeping your main goal in the forefront of your mind.  Don't be discouraged!

"I trained four years to run nine seconds, and people give up when they don't see results in two months." - Usain Bolt