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), the crown wearer knows 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!

Don’t assume that the concerns and problems are work related! We have trouble makers who are associates, family members, or considered friends. Wow! Sometimes, their issues and betrayals can be more penetrating because of our expectations. We sometimes expect loyalty from those “close” to us.

I’m shaking my head.

Wasn’t it Brutus, a close political ally and protégé of Julius Caesar, whom Caesar treated like a son, who led the conspiracy to assassinate him on the Ides of March. (My birthday, btw).

Also, wasn’t it President Harding who said,

"I have no trouble with my enemies. I can take care of my enemies in a fight. But my friends, my goddamned friends, they're the ones who keep me walking the floor at nights!"

The reality is that we have to keep our eyes open, our ears to the ground, and sadly our guards up at all times!

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. It’s internal peace that you seek. 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. Plus, why let others determine your destiny, your actions/outcomes. That’s your decision to make, not theirs. Believe me - we all receive the consequences of our actions. As the kids say, “They’ll get theirs. Don’t worry.”

Ok.

So …What now? Wise up, make prudent decisions, see people for who they are, 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?

You worked too hard to earn that beautiful crown decorated in gold and jewels! It’s yours to wear. Enjoy your life and the fruitage of your labor. The “real” people in your life will be there for you as you have been for them!

Much has been said in this post, but I like you needed to hear it! With age comes the right words at the right time. With age, we become wiser… Photo credit: The Dutch Crown