In a world where many of us wear metaphorical masks to navigate our diverse roles, this article reflects on the journey of shedding those masks to reveal authenticity. The writer describes how perpetual smiling masks served as armor, presenting an image of strength and reliability while simultaneously concealing personal struggles and vulnerability. This narrative highlights the isolating nature of independence without community, encouraging a balance between giving to others and finding strength in one’s own needs being met.
The blog post underscores a transformative journey towards authentic leadership through the removal of such masks. As the writer shares personal struggles, it fosters a newfound connection with others facing similar challenges. The notion here is that true courage lies in vulnerability, where sharing both blessings and burdens bridges gaps and transforms previous protective barriers into collective strength and understanding.
Ultimately, the article advocates for genuine interactions surrounded by supportive communities that allow leaders to flourish. It emphasizes the importance of being supported by trusted friends and mentors, encouraging leaders to accept help and find solace in shared experiences. Embracing authenticity, leaders can demonstrate strength, instill healing, and foster an environment that allows their circle of influence to thrive genuinely and holistically.
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I used to believe I had to be perfect….especially when I stepped into Church Leadership.
We believe that in order to be “really” used by God spiritually helping people that we have to be perfect & qualified.
That perfection looked like:
- not sharing bad days with others
- keeping my questions and opinions to myself in fear of being wrong, rejected or seen as unqualified
- stuffing “negative” feelings- anything less than happy, so my fears, hurts, anxiety, questions, etc)
- saying yes to everything even if I didn’t want to
- quadruple checking and questioning things I created or decided
- avoiding stepping into new things
- constantly checking myself against The Greats in Women’s Ministry left to be equally motivated/inspired AND not enough/no place for me vs seeking validation and confirmation from God in the place He currently had me while learning from and appreciating the examples He gave me to move my soul to lead
- staying in the back, on the bench, called to Coach but sitting in the stands clapping to feel a part of the role even if it wasn’t me
- constant focus on outward appearance (body/mind/spirit) to have best/perfect foot forward
- living a life of expectations vs authentic excellence- being the best I was, as I was, a sinner saved by grace
- grace for others…period.
Here’s how I broke perfectionism:
- Surrendering self and living according to His power, truth, grace, strength, purpose, knowing He will equip you as you go!
- Recognize and admit ALL have sinned and are saved by GRACE, Not BY WORKS should anyone boast…we are all THE SAME!!! No one is perfect!!!!
- Let those who inspire you, move and mentor you. Do not allow the enemy to take what God meant for good and use it to harm you and destroy you by accepting its lie. Titus 2 is gleaning from one another to edify and build up His Glory in us and through us! Let’s sharpen each others iron with fire!!!
- saying No to the things not for me
- Love! Perfect love cast out fear! Stop fearing what “man” may say and ask what does God have to say?!?
- Fight with His armor and not your bare hands
- Pray, worship, serve and live from His heart pouring out thru yours and understand you will make mistakes and it’s okay!!!!!! It’s oohhkkaaayyy!! There’s gonna be trials, pruning and refining. It’s how we grow in grace!!
- Be YOU!!! Pray and ask for a Sister Squad that is safe for you to share your life with - good, bad, ugly and trust them with your heart knowing these gifts are from God.
Perfectly Imperfect!!! You may think you’re living a life of freedom trying your best be perfect but you are not! Your anxiety and exhaustion are calling it out!! Let it go!!!
If you were perfect….
You wouldn’t need Jesus.
There’s that!! 
Was this is helpful to you?!? Now….GO BE FREEEEEE as you are created to be!!
If today's encouragement hugged your HEART today, let me know in the comments or meet me over
in my Facebook Sisterhood Community! Feel free to share this blog with a friend who needs a heart hug too!
This is how YOU get to hug my HEART back!
Heart Hugs and Blessings,
Michele
In this blog post, the author addresses the common struggles of being a mom, feeling overwhelmed, and constantly trying to keep up with everything. They discuss the popular notion of self-care and wine as a solution, but offer a healthier alternative. The author suggests time blocking as a practical way to organize and prioritize daily tasks, allowing for a better sense of control and accomplishment. The author shares their personal experience of feeling constantly needed and burnt out, but also highlights the importance of taking breaks and acknowledging exhaustion without feeling guilty. They encourage readers to reflect on their own reasons for not prioritizing themselves and provide reassurance that they are not alone in these struggles.
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Wow, it's been over 14 years....if I am being honest, that fact alone makes me both angry with myself yet so grateful to be here in this blessing of hope and healing, in the overcoming of fear, anxiety, insecurity and less-than-the-bless.
The very things I thought I would never do, I am. What I thought wasn't for me, was. I have never been so glad to be so wrong in all my life!
Read more...In the next few blogs, we will talk about different fears, what it looked like in my own life and why you can’t just “Do it” or “Have Faith.” Instead of dismissing someone’s fears or anxious thoughts, let’s take time to understand and teach people how to equip themselves physically, emotionally and spiritually, empowering them to manage their fear rather than dismiss them as silly.
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