Saturday, July 30, 2016

Planting Seeds for the Future


Planting Seeds for the Future by Janet Shlaes, Ph.D.

“Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.”

~ Robert Louis Stevenson

Every action that you take or conversation that you engage in has a ripple impact out into the world, mostly in unanticipated ways. In fact, there is an area of study concerning unanticipated consequences devoted to this phenomenon. Although this study concentration is primarily focused on negative consequences, I propose that it is equally likely for your actions and words to set positive future consequences into motion. I find this likelihood to be both comforting and filled with tremendous responsibility, as well as comprised of the need for self-awareness, intention, trust, faith and patience. Let me explain……


As a psychologist, my work with individuals and organizations predominantly focuses on articulating an aspirational vision and generating viable strategies, systems, structures, skills and mindsets to reach this vision. As a graduate school professor, my work focuses on imparting an optimal blend of theory, practice, skills and mindsets. In all of my professional roles, I work from a place of passion, dedication, knowledge and experience. With the wisdom that time and experience provides, I have come to realize that I ultimately work from a place of trust, faith and patience. I trust in the motivation, integrity and native intelligence of my students and clients. I have faith that the seeds that I plant will blossom with time, intention, action and experience and that what I have to offer is “good enough” to facilitate this eventual blossoming. I have patience, derived from the experience and belief that one’s unfolding ensues over time.

Whether you’re aware of it or not, you are continually planting seeds of wisdom, faith, trust and inspiration in others, seeds that organically and miraculously take root and grow in unexpected ways. What seeds will you plant today?

Janet

For additional insights and observations, check out the following posts:



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