As an entrepreneur and as a person, one of the things that inspires me is recognizing how God has transformed me over the years in my daily life. Has life ceased to present struggles and obstacles to my hopes? That's a resounding no. What has changed is my ability to grapple with life's challenges and find meaning and growth in the midst of them. As I reflect on my journey, I can see how God's transformative power has been at work, shaping me into a stronger and more resilient individual. I have learned to embrace struggles and obstacles as opportunities for growth. Rather than being disheartened by difficult circumstances, I now approach them with a sense of faith and trust in God's plan for my life. This intrinsic inclination has allowed me to navigate challenges with a profound sense of recollection, knowing that even in the toughest times, there are lessons to be learned, opportunities for growth, and blessings to be found.
This recognition also invigorates and activates me on my entrepreneurial journey to bring Peony & Lark, Co. products to people everywhere. Our products are created to heal, nourish and rejuvenate the skin which is our body's first line of defense. To do that we think and act holistically from the sourcing of our raw materials to the final product. We want to create a circular system that is sustainable and ethical. Our choice to use non-GMO and organic raw materials ethically sourced from communities around the world in our products is the result of thoughtful actions to create a positive social and environmental impact.
When I feel like I am stuck or in a place of drought, I recall in my mind who I was and who I am now by God's grace. I also begin by doing the task that is most urgent for me to complete. As simple as that, I find that beginning there helps me to put things in perspective and move forward. Taking action by starting with the most urgent task is an excellent approach to breaking through inertia. Often, when we're stuck, the weight of all the tasks and responsibilities can feel overwhelming. By focusing on one urgent task and completing it, you create a sense of accomplishment and build momentum. This can lead to a positive domino effect, as we gain confidence and energy to tackle other tasks.
Putting things in perspective is key to maintaining a healthy outlook on life. When we feel stuck, it's easy to lose sight of the bigger picture and get caught up in the immediate difficulties. Reflecting on our journey and taking action can help us regain clarity about our goals and priorities. It reminds us that challenges are a natural part of the journey, and with faith and perseverance, we can overcome them.
Additionally, the act of recalling my growth and taking action aligns with my mindset of gratitude and trust in God's plan. By being grateful for the progress I've made by God's grace and trusting in His guidance, I continuously cultivate a positive attitude that helps activate me as I navigate through difficult times.
Written By: Dessa Shepherd (MA ‘19)