Don’t get upset by the ebb and flow

Believe me, a town of over 3,000 people in Manitoba is named Ebb and Flow. Well, it is located on a lake called Ebb and Flow. I remember the days when my family explored the Prairie Mountain region, lodging in cabins, visiting family and spending time at Clear Lake. We would always pass through Ebb and Flow. The name of the town and the ebb and flow of the lake always gets me thinking. I imagine that we all pass through ebb and flow as we journey onward in life. In fact, we spend the most part of our journey in ebb and flow. What do I mean by that? Our lives are composed of a series of ups and downs, of rising tides and fading ebbs.

Sometimes we see the tides rising, with the winds blowing in our favour. We enjoy the feeling of success, the euphoria and the sense of fulfilment that accompanies our accomplishments, well-being and good things surrounding us. However, we know that the tides do not stay up forever. The upward flow is succeeded by the ebb, the recession and fading out of the tide. However, most of us have challenges dealing with the ebb. We do not want the flowing back, the abatement or decline which cycles alongside the highs of life. Nevertheless, we all must face the fact that changes and, in fact, constant changes are part and parcel of our daily life. As the tide flows inward and outward of the ocean, creating constant fluctuations, so does life deal frequent changes to each one of us.
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Instead of getting upset by the ebb and flow, we should learn to become unperturbed as the tide rises and falls. Getting agitated when things are not going well will not help solve the problem. There is no point getting worked up, especially when we cannot control the situation. Someone on a sailboat may not control the wind but can adjust the sail. Most of the time, we lack control over circumstances external to us, but we can adjust our attitudes, thoughts, and actions to arrive at our destination. The rising and fading of tides are normal. Don’t let the situation overwhelm you. Don’t get knocked over by the waves.

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Actions for the week

1. Are you experiencing constantly changing situations? Stay focused on your strengths and the end you envisioned. Let your mind be stable.
2. Surround yourself with positive people. Think positive thoughts. Say positive things. Avoid negativity around you.
3. Share this message with those in your network.

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A quote to remember
“Life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient.” — Steve Maraboli

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Until another time,
Dele Ola, Award-Winning Author of Be A Change Agent
​Click HERE to learn about and get copies of Dele’s Books