October 28, 2024

“Marriage is hard, but a good marriage is even harder.”

Over two decades ago, this simple yet profound statement was added to my life.  Although, at the time, I was unaware of her words' depth and true meaning, as my mentor guided me with her wisdom, I wrote her guidance on the front cover of a book I still cherish today.

As life has evolved, her statement has mentored me along life’s path, and not just in marriage. I think of it often and link it to what John Maxwell reminds us: “Everything worthwhile in your life is uphill.” The only way to go uphill is to be intentional; nobody accidentally went uphill.

This past Saturday, I turned 50 (!!), which means I’ve been blessed to live the depth of these statements. They no longer are words on the front cover of books; they are etched in my life through experience that has required effort, energy, and time to succeed in the areas I cherish, value, and aspire to gain.

I no longer read the statement, “Marriage is hard, but a good marriage is even harder.” I read it as a statement that guides my attitude, desire, passion, and perseverance in every aspect of my life, and I hope you’re inspired to do so as well!

-          Leadership is hard, but good leadership is even harder.

-          Parenting is hard, but good parenting is harder.

-          Relationships are hard, but good relationships are even harder.

-          Dreams are hard, but good dreams are harder.

-          Habits are hard, but good habits are even harder.

You get the point! The list goes on and on in our lives. When embraced, this mindset will fuel you with a focused, burning desire that authentically aligns with what matters most to you.

Intentionally Own It: When we live knowing that everything worthwhile in our lives is uphill, we climb. Where do you get to start climbing, and when you do, how will this add value to your life and others?