The Real Task

“If you read spiritual stories carefully, you will always see there is a task within a task, a struggle alongside a struggle. It is not enough to kill the dragon, save the maiden, or even die on the cross – the real hero’s task is to keep love, to find humor, to maintain freedom, to discover joy, to expand vision in the process of killing the dragon.” Joseph Cambell

Starting, running and growing a small business is no different. There is always “a task within a task, a struggle alongside struggle,” a nervous breakdown around every corner as we put out fire after fire. What greater illustration of the “human experience” at work , then our ability to navigate the ups and downs of life when faced with the unknown. The long, sleepless nights as we work tirelessly to realize the path required to bring our goals and plans to fruition. The stress and the struggle that comes with making our dreams a reality. How do we find balance? How do we remain positive while “killing the dragon?” How do we embrace and enjoy the fruits of our labor amidst the chaos?  I watch strong ideas fail because the creator becomes overwhelmingly discouraged. We’ve all been there… we work hard on something, but it just doesn’t work out the way we planned and we give up. This post will not focus on some technical program or cool website, but rather on you. Finding your center, putting down roots and establishing a strong, sturdy foundation to grow from.

The elusive “they” always says, “before you can love someone else, you must first love yourself.” A similar principle is found in business. You must know your purpose, so you can pursue it. You must know your limits, so you can push them. You must find your center, so that you can maintain balance and hone your craft. I once worked with an amazing team who believed that growth and development was not about fixing something that was broken, but rather better understanding your strengths so that you can be your best self. I think this is a big part of finding your center and in putting down roots. Another important piece is finding your inner balance. To make sure that you are taking care of yourself; both mentally and physically. Eat healthy, exercise, get adequate sleep, set boundaries and enforce them, manage your time.

Know your dragon. Be your dragon. Own your dragon.