“Our character is basically a composite of our habits. Because they are consistent, often unconscious patterns, they constantly, daily, express our character.” - Stephen Covey
Recently, news broke that a certain musician owed nearly millions in back taxes.
The US Internal Revenue Service had filed a lien against them for back taxes, and the state they lived in also filed a tax lien against them. However this was not the first time they’d been mired in financial problems.
Years earlier they’d declared bankruptcy, and been in the papers numerous times for unpaid debts.
The bleeding obvious here is simply this: Patterns.
In this star’s case, a pattern of failing to manage their money. Which impacted on their reputation, standing and possibly blocked greater opportunities because heck, they certainly had a voice!
But they probably had little respect from the heavy hitters who make crucial business decisions when it comes to potential partnerships and investments.
Which probably led to their career fizzling out way before its time.
We all have patterns in our life that impact our choices.
Most times however we’re not conscious of those patterns and we find ourselves stumbling over and over again on the same issue.
To ignore those patterns would be foolish as they’ll always come back to slap you in the face again and again until you learn the valuable lesson they’re trying to deliver.
However, patterns are not always negative. They can sometimes be very positive.
From that new acquaintance you keep bumping into – who could hold the potential of becoming a dear friend, to that book you keep stumbling on – which could be the nudge you towards to a new mindset, to a sign on the highway that keeps drawing you to studying at a certain university – which could ultimately lead to a new career and calling.
The patterns in our lives are boundless.
The key is to pay attention to them, and to address them. They could be the all important steps you need to step into more maturity and responsibility or the keys to unlocking new possibilities.
Insight Inspiration:
Look for patterns - go over events in your life that keep repeating themselves and try to identify the central theme.
You should be able to notice repetitive behaviour or thought patterns that keep bothering you or conversely, excite you.
Only then by identifying them can you act to empower and change them – with the help of experts and professionals.
The key question is: Are you willing to identify the pattern in your life before it breaks you or keeps you from your best potential?
Break up with your bad patterns. Your brand, reputation and legacy depends on it.
Think on it.
