UNEASY LIES THE HEAD THAT WEARS THE CROWN

By Vernalee

“Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown,” a slogan which originated from a William Shakespeare play - describes a person who has great responsibilities, power, and prestige and is constantly worried; a person who subsequently doesn’t sleep soundly because of the pressure. The uneasiness proliferates and the stress of it all can turn their hair from black to white almost overnight.

The expression fits people who are charged with making weighty decisions – leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, CEO’s, parents, care givers, and the like. Sleepless nights, stress, and worry are accompaniments to the “crown.” Balancing activities, duties, and responsibilities so that nothing tilts is part of the process. The wearer of the crown becomes a juggler who must maintain equalization in their lives and those of others. Careful and cautious they must be to manage it all and minimize the stress. Not only do they have extremely weighty decisions to analyze and make, all eyes are upon them at all times! The expectations can be overwhelming and unrealistic. Are the constant observers pleasurably watching, hoping that the wearer of the crown succeeds or waiting to see them faIl? Who knows? While most sleep (Zzzz), they know not a snoring moment as they are usually in deep thought determining the next steps. Figuring stuff out comes with the territory.

The scrutiny in general and the stress in particular can be unbearable at times.

Stop!

Speaking of pressure, it can be heavy enough to make one scream. If this describes you ... Go ahead; release it, let it out! It is imperative that you stay “cool, calm, and collected.” When your release valves are open, they help you manage more efficiently, remain less stressful, and make wiser decisions. Some days when the crown becomes too heavy to wear and the conscious bothersome, the desire is to take it off and throw it in the trash ... which is unrealistic because among other things, there are too many people who are dependent upon you.

Ok.

What now? Wise up, make prudent decisions, and get an occasional good night’s sleep! With time, graduate and become indoctrinated with sensible maneuvering namely – to take one day at a time.

To those who wear the crown, there is no rest for the weary. However, I invite you to let the admonition of Matthew 6:34 soothe your soul. “Don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” Smart thinking! Right? With age does comes wisdom! Photo credit: historic royal palaces

STOP LOOKING AT OTHERS. GET YOUR HOUSE IN ORDER

By Vernalee

Thriving business; fantastic career; big house; new car; extravagant jewelry/clothes, lavish vacations …..all are sought after forms of materialism! Sounds good! Oh yes! But what happens to your psyche when someone has more of them than you? Are you truly happy for them or are you jealous? Do you really like to see people do good or do you resent it particularly when they are doing better than you? You don’t have to answer. Your conduct will reveal the truth; it’s very telling. It puts more visible definition to you than you think! Either you will show happiness, delight, joy, regret, envy, or resentment …. when you observe others’ success. If you are resentful, you wallow in your own misery. Stop becoming so wrapped up in others. Don’t become trapped in someone else’s glory; enjoy the splendor of your own life. Stay focused on mapping your path! I’m sorry! If there is still a noticeable twinge of jealousy and abundant envy circulating in your space, unfortunately you have not arrived. Jealousy is not a good utilization of your time. You end up spending more time on others – than yourself! What a waste! Get out of the equalization mode and realize/achieve your greatness! Remember looks are deceiving. What you see externally may not be reflective of what lies inside. Work hard so that you too can have your deserved portion. Realign your priorities and thinking! Put your time to good use! The time that you spend looking at other folks’ stuff … could be better utilized toward acquiring your own! Stop trying to keep up with the Joneses! Don’t worry (about theirs); be happy (about yours)! Photo credit: www.pininterest.com

IF A DOG TAKES A BONE, HE'LL BRING ONE

By Vernalee

Doesn’t that doggie look so adorable? He is the cutest thing! His alluring appearance reminds me of some folks that a few of us considered – confidantes! We could tell them anything or so we thought. Close your mouth for a moment. Let me tell you something… 1. Protect your secrets; 2. Guard your words; 3. Be selective about who you tell what to … It’s only common sense. I’m sure that you have heard this advice before – time and time again. I have! Of course, we don’t always listen. If someone tells you other folks business, they’ll tell yours! It doesn’t take rocket scientist intelligence to figure that out; it’s plain and simple. You are not exempted from gossip particularly from a person who can't keep their mouth closed. Don’t assume that their behavior will change – just because it’s you! They took the liberties to put your business out in the streets because you provided the ammunition! You told them! Because you let your guards down, your information is now freely circulating through the universe for all ears to hear! Why would they be discreet? They could care less. Did you forget? They are bona fide gossipers. Besides it’s your business; not theirs!

It never fails. If a dog brings a bone, he'll take one! Photo credit: rover.com