Help! This Process is Killing Me!

One of the most important factors in success is being “processed.”

Unfortunately, we have created a microwave world that avoids process at any cost. What is process? Why do we avoid process? What is it about process that frightens us?

Oxford Dictionary defines process as “a series of actions or steps taken to achieve a particular end.” The main word in the definition of process is “series,” which means “more than one.” How many steps will be in your series? Certainly even the best of mentors cannot honestly give you an accurate answer except to say, “I don’t know.” What I do know is that if you keep pressing, stay consistent, and be excellent, you will get to where you are going on this journey.

What is even more important than your perceived destination are the lessons you learn along the way. That is why the journey, both good and bad, happy or sad, is critical.

The rosebush is a great example. Most roses have thorns. The smell of the rose is beautiful, but the valuable lessons designed to take you to your next level are in the thorns. The thorns on a rosebush are there for the purpose of helping the rose survive the wiles of humans and animals. Just like the thorn on the rosebush, thorns in our lives have a purpose. If we concentrate on the thorn instead of the purpose, we will find ourselves in a continual cycle of tests that never seem to end.

Paul pleaded with Jesus three times to remove a thorn from his flesh. Jesus answered, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Therefore, most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” 2 Cor. 12:9.  This spiritual wisdom packs a powerful punch. Process sometimes hurts (thorns) and it always takes time. It is necessary to your growth and success.

How can you allow the process to help you grow and succeed?

1. Embrace the process, and use the thorns of your life by understanding that there is a purpose. Ask yourself, “What can I learn from the supervisor who is a thorn in my side? “ I submit to you that the answer to the problem is in finding the lesson.
2. Once you identify the lesson, engage in a process that allows you to positively apply the lesson to your life. For example, if the lesson is patience or seeing another’s worldview, determine you will “seek first to understand, then to be understood.” – Stephen Covey.
3. Allow your engagement in the process to empower you for the journey. You have now picked up one more tool to use on your path of growth and success.
4. Understand that the answer is in the process and there are thorns along the way at every level of elevation or promotion.

Embrace, Engage, and Empower!

Barbara M. Littles, Esq.
Life & Leadership Strategist
CEO, Purpose By Design
Embrace, Engage, Empower