Give yourself permission

Hi folks

Do you realize how much power you have been given by God to live a meaningful life? There are a lot of things that we cannot control such as pandemics, disappointments, retrenchments, heartbreaks, etc. however, there are many other things that are within our control that can determine the quality of life we live.

A leader is not effective if they do not realize their authority to make decisions. They are unable to lead correctly if they are indecisive, with no goals. We are all leaders in our lives. God has not given me the authority to live your life, I may influence positively or negatively- some of the decisions you make but you as an individual have the last say. Many situations attempt to steal our authority, these can be big and small things. Some of these could be persistent retail advertisements, excellent voting campaigns, social media influencers, etc. I list these three because you might only be following what is trending and not necessarily doing or purchasing something that you want or like. These situations steal your authority because you hand over your power based on temporary decision-making.

Today, I want to remind you that you have the power, self-control, and ability to limit or permit a lot of things that are brought to your attention. When someone asks you to do something for them and you do not have the capacity, you are allowed to say no. God will bring someone else who can provide for that need. When someone offers you something you are allowed to turn it down if it does not serve you or add any value to the life you are building.

I found myself trapped in a disease called “people-pleasing” that limited my voice and opinion. When I suffered from this, I wanted to do things for others because I had a false sense of identity. I somehow treated people better than I treated myself. I did not understand that I kept pouring out to others from an empty cup, I was burnt out every year-end and it was unhealthy. Fortunately, I am learning to find my identity in Christ and as I heal from this, I continue to embrace my worth. The change started when I realized that I have the power to give myself permission to live a quality life. Being constantly overwhelmed and frustrated is not a quality life. I had to choose to release certain habits and to take on new ones. This is teaching me not to see myself as less worthy than others. I must take care of myself, my mind, my body, and my emotions to become a healthier and more intentional human being. The benefit of embracing self-worth comes with the ability to say no, to set clear and healthy boundaries, and to permit me to live a good and meaningful life. If you do not know what you deserve, you accept anything. If you do not understand that God wants the best for you (mentally, spiritually, physically, emotionally), you will continue to settle for less. You will stay in positions, friendships, and spaces that keep you stagnant.

So, what’s your story? What unhealthy things are you permitting to continue dominating your life? What changes would you like to see? God will give you the grace to change those unhealthy habits and mindset- but you must permit Him to do so and play your part. I hope and pray that your eyes may also be opened to the truth of who you are. When you get to find out just how God sees you, how valuable you are, you will have a mindset shift. You have a great responsibility to take care of what God has placed under your care; you and your well-being are part of the package. When you take care of yourself, it is often easier to support those around you. Permit yourself to fulfill the dreams in your heart. We resist the ideas God gives us because we see our lack of finances, energy, capacity, etc. You are sometimes the person that is standing in your way to a better future. Allow yourself to explore the godly desires and trust that God will show up and do the rest.

Permit yourself to be who you are, tap into the areas that scare you the most- they are probably placed in you for a good reason. Do not be too afraid to fail, we all fail at some point.

“God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn” – Psalm 46:5.

With love,

Unathi.