Strong Enough

This is my year of curious daring and courage.  It has been my mantra over the past several months.  The outcome has been a stronger, more assured way of responding to the world. With a “just do it” attitude, failures and non-inclusions are no longer negatives; rather, they are nudges to get me back on the path of life purpose.   Navigating with courage, I am stronger and more confident to use the constructive parts of criticism to grow.

Earlier this week, I sent my resume to a recruiter.  The return email began, “I don’t know how you write resumes in Louisville, but….”  My first response was to scoff defensively as I reminded myself of the number of resumes I have written for others that have resulted in job offers.  His words were a blow to my ego.  I judged his comments as snarky.  Then, I used the RI² process (reflection, introspection, integration) to refocus, reframe, and respond.

First I acknowledged the hurt and feelings of inadequacy — reflection.  Next, introspection found me asking the question, “How strong are you?”  Well, I decided that I was strong enough to accept the critique and make changes to my resume — re-patterning my response.  Finally, I integrated this belief in my self by confidently re-scripting my abilities and fashioning a better marketing piece.

Becoming strong enough is the power behind curious daring and courage.  Using RI², I moved past the hurt that threatened to shut me down.  I reflected and introspected to look what lay at the base of the trigger.  And, through reflection and introspection, his comments became a catalyst for discovering a new way to showcase my skills and talents. 

I am strong enough to receive ego bruising news and make the changes that better reflect who I am — to be my most authentic self. 

Wishing you the strength to be your best, most authentic self,

Vanessa

Vanessa F. Hurst, MS,  is an Intuitive, Community Builder, and Compassionista, and Author of Engaging Compassion Through Intent & Action.  Contact her

www.intentandaction.com