Easter morning 2023: Diane and I sat in church and listened to a sermon about the struggle of redemption and sin or faults. The priest told a story about a procession that takes place between two churches that are two miles apart. The procession takes all day because the walkers take three steps forward and then two steps back. Up close the procession looks like a dance but if you zoom out or observe from the local hilltop, the procession seems to be at a standstill - but it is always moving forward.
This story was a powerful metaphor for our own lives. We often feel like we're taking two steps back for every three steps forward, and it can be disheartening. But the procession taught us that as long as we keep moving forward, we will eventually reach our destination. It's easy to get caught up in the setbacks and obstacles we encounter along the way, but we must remember to keep our eyes focused on the goal and keep moving forward.
As a professional, the pressure to constantly achieve progress is always present. However, mastering the art of progress doesn't necessarily mean moving forward all the time. Sometimes, taking two steps backwards can actually help you move three steps forward in the long run. This is particularly important when dealing with clients' progress, as market volatility and other external factors can affect their growth.
It's important to remember that progress isn't just about the professional aspect of life. It's about achieving a balance between work and personal life, including family. Taking a step back to prioritize your well-being and relationships can actually help you achieve more progress in the long run.
To master the art of progress, it's important to have a clear vision of your goals and to be flexible with your approach. Don't be afraid to pivot or make changes when necessary. This can sometimes mean taking a step back in order to reassess and make necessary adjustments.
Another key factor in mastering progress is to surround yourself with people who support and encourage you. This can be a mentor, a coach, or simply a supportive network of family and friends. Having people who believe in you and your progress can help you stay motivated and focused in the face of challenges.
In conclusion, mastering the art of progress isn't just about constantly moving forward. It's about being flexible, prioritizing your well-being and relationships, having a clear vision of your goals, and surrounding yourself with supportive people. Remember, sometimes taking two steps back can actually help you move three steps forward in the long run.
The Easter morning of 2023 was a reminder to us all that the struggle of redemption and sin is a journey, not a destination. We may stumble and falter along the way, but if we keep taking those three steps forward, we'll get there eventually. As we left the church that day, we felt a renewed sense of hope and determination to keep moving forward, no matter what challenges may arise.