I HAVE yet seen no man who applies himself to something without having an expectation in mind. The greater a man applies himself to a given project the greater expectation he has for the outcome. However, we are human at best; discouragement is a force every human being is prone to experience ' regardless of social standing or personal achievements. It might come from within or without but the experience is inevitable. It is easier to give up than to encourage one's self but we must, as a matter of principle, be faithful and true to ourselves: This means that we do not make quick decisions when we are confused or afraid, when things do not quite pan out as we think they should. This article deals with some of the factors we all meet when we get discouraged.When Passion WanesWhat do you do when nothing seems to be in the right perspective' Look beyond your expectations to God. As controversial as it might seem I cannot give `advice I do not believe to be true. What has Image and Etiquette got to do with God' We have a life and substance that is not of our making. The very force that gives us purpose (vision and image) and sustenance is not under our authority. It is only from the greater source that we can have what it takes to accomplish our purpose. Sometimes we find that our emotions and reasoning are in contention with each other and when that happens, we tend to question everything we previously believed. Since we cannot prevent that from happening, we must neither be too proud nor too lazy to seek our Lord and Maker for rejuvenation and understanding since true vision originates from Him.Hold Your PeaceDo not confess negatively. You would be amazed how influential words can be. Merely hearing words, including words from our own mouth, can transmit emotions. When you say things out loud you give them some credibility. Experience teaches us that things are not always as they seem; not acting in haste is good advice more times than not. There is a time and season for everything under the sun; being watchful and patient is the sure way to reap bountifully. Now it is not sufficient that we ignore those negatives words, thoughts or perceptions, we must train ourselves to rise above them; 'Finally brethren, whatever is true, whatever honourable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.' (Phil 4:8 NASB)Rein In Emotions Through Self-ControlEvery pathway from the brain leads eventually to a muscle. This means that if you are thinking defeatist thoughts, be sure your posture, gesture and actions portray those same thoughts. However, it is easier to control our actions than our emotions and it is possible to rein our emotions through our actions. It is true that we are emotional beings but we ought not to be blown away by any emotion. We must exercise self-control if we do not wish to be controlled by any emotion. Self-control is a virtue to be desired and sought. It saves those who practice it from a multitude of errors.Beyond Expectations ' The Place Of Humility And GratitudeWhy do we get easily discouraged' It's not that we do not desire to do good, but by and by, pride creeps in so that we think of ourselves as greater than we ought to. This naturally gives birth to ingratitude. Everyman ought to have an audience of one and that one should NOT be himself or anyone else. Your audience of one is your Maker to whom you will give account. If we seek the will of our Maker we ought not to concern ourselves with giving the increase for this is not in our power. We ought therefore, to concern ourselves in following instruction and not getting our priorities out of place.Yes, there are times we should reflect and assess our progress ' or lack of it (neither is it wrong to desire a greater manifestation). However, we must be careful to judge rightly; if that desire comes from a place where we wish to be elevated, we most certainly are out of the Masters will and have turned aside from the true vision since our vision is given to us by Him. If you desire to do His will, then after doing all to stand, we must stand therefore and make the most of what you have.Image and Etiquette addresses general perceptions, societal norms and expectations and personal expressions with the goal to cultivate social graces, suavity and a dignified presence for interpersonal relationships. If you have questions on Image and Etiquette please send them to askpamela@regalgraces.com or SMS 08038240870. Pamela also covers Workshops and Keynote speeches on Corporate Image and Etiquette and manages Perfect Healthlife Wellness Center08167089656 (SMS only).E-mail:regalgraces@yahoo.com
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