“What are the things that if I don’t do….I will die inside?”
That was a question that the late Toni Morrison asked herself when she felt her dreams slipping away.
For years, Toni Morrison, who became one of the most celebrated authors in the world, dreamed of writing books. However, her job as an editor – the job she needed to care for her family– gave her little time to pursue her God-given passion.
But one day, she realized that being a mother and writing books were the only things she HAD to do to live meaningfully and purposefully. That courageous realization changed her life and led her to write 11 novels, 2 short fiction books, 3 plays, 13 non-fiction books, and countless articles. And in 1993, she became the first African-American woman to win the Nobel Prize for literature.
When I think of Toni Morrison’s story, I think about you and me. Because, like Ms. Morrision, I know there are things you must do to live with joy, enthusiasm, and meaning. There are some passions, dreams, and social causes that you MUST focus on to stay connected to your highest self. There is something deep inside of you that MUST be expressed to energize you and propel you forward.
So, over the next few days, reflect on what you must do to express and experience who you uniquely are.
Determine what you must shift or release to create what you need or want.
Determine what you must try so you don’t become resentful or regretful.
Determine what you must focus on because it matters, motivates, and means something to you.
Identify your “MUSTs.”
Be honest with yourself!
And then, be bold.
Be brave.
Take action.
“What are the things that if I don’t do….I will die inside?”
Pondering this soul-clarifying question with my clients has changed the trajectories of their lives. It has helped them peel off the layers of societal assumptions, family expectations, and social conditioning to define and pursue their truth.
This question can help you, too.
I look forward to exploring this life-expanding question during the “Now What?” Retreat.
If you want to explore this question with other big-hearted thinkers, join us on December 7th and 8th. Click here.
In the meantime, please ask yourself this question, trusting the answer will come to you with ease: What MUST I do to live and not die inside…. and do it openly, unapologetically, and purposefully?
Blessings to you!
SharRon,
The Dare To Soar Higher Strategist
