Don’t end up in handcuffs
Some of you may or may not be familiar with the experience of heading down to the station in the back of a police car, just waiting for your first mugshot. For those of you who are ignorant of the feeling, I’ll spare you the suspense and tell you it’s terrible. Let’s take a minute to talk about what other kinds of handcuffs you can find yourself in and how they’re holding you back.
Your life will be defined and enhanced by all kinds of relationships. Family, friends, spouses, and work relationships all have their own patterns and gravity in your life. Relationships can build you up or tear you down. If you flock with people who have the same drive as you, want the same successes as you, and work as hard as you, then you’ll find yourself moving forward in a positive direction. Otherwise, I would warn you of the kind of shackles you can find yourself in when you are not wary of who you associate with. People have a habit of picking up the traits of others or sharing their traits with those around them. Be careful you don’t end up in the kind of relationship that pulls you away from your dreams, forcing you to compromise in an ultimatum in which there is no advantage. Be equally cautious of the kind of relationship that makes you suffer spiritually and mentally, because over time, that toxic connection will cause lasting damage you may not be prepared to deal with.
In defining the kinds of tethers you have, it’s important to consider that your worst handcuffs could very well be your own. Often enough, we are our own worst enemies, because no one can knock you down a peg faster than yourself. You can spend your nights in bed, sleepless, thinking of that one insignificant detail where you made one tiny mistake and obsess over it. This kind of behavior can create a dangerous routine where it holds you back more than any other person can. By acknowledging we need help and that we do suffer from this condition, we have to reason with ourselves that it’s okay to get help. Understanding what is wrong is one of the biggest steps we can take to freedom and wellness. Before you do anything, consider the consequences, look at the people in your life, and come to terms with what’s weighing you down and holding you back.
