When Opportunity Doesn't Knock
how to direct our energy when things aren't going where we would like
“You can’t control your opportunities, but you can control your preparedness.”
I have shared this quote countless times, often in the context of leadership and optimism. There is a similar quote about not controlling circumstances but controlling your attitude, which has a similar message. I prefer this one, though.
This quote strikes me because of how practical it is. You might be longing to step into that next thing, and it just isn’t happening on your timeline. The job opening isn’t posted, you haven’t met the right person, the funds aren’t coming together… No matter what opportunities you have or lack, remember to stay committed to growing yourself and being the best possible person for that next opportunity.
Andy Stanley talks about in his book The New Rules for Love Sex and Dating that we should focus not on finding the right person but becoming the right person. I read this at 16 years old and it stuck. Committing to becoming completely changes our focus and intention. This wisdom applies far beyond romance.
Looking for opportunities
When we are clear on the opportunities we want, which is an endeavor in itself, we can then start to look for places where those opportunities might be found. We can start to connect to people who have had those opportunities and learn from them. I told one of my clients recently, ‘you never know how one conversation might change your direction,’ and I believe this. There are many of what I have termed before “mentorship conversations” that have changed my direction in life. My client is preparing for a huge opportunity and the more people they can talk to about it, the more wisdom they can glean and ultimately the more prepared they can become.
You can’t control your opportunities, but you can control how prepared you are to seize one and you can control where you are and how often you are turning over rocks looking for opportunities. The deeply brave of you might actually go around asking for opportunities that aren’t yet offered. There are often times organizations will create a custom role for a uniquely skilled individual that meets the needs of everyone. You can’t control opportunity, but you may be able to influence an opportunity’s origination.
Just ask
One of the guiding principles of my life has been these two words: just ask. If you don’t ask, the answer is automatically no. When you do ask, the answer may still be no, but it may surprise you how often it actually become yes. I was sharing with Elise the other day how often I will make simple and clear requests, often to be told no, but surprisingly often I get a yes, or am even surprised and offered more than I asked.
You can’t control the answer, but you can control the question. And you can control your attitude in response. And you can control your gratitude when you’re blessed. And you can control how you prepare for the next step. And…
If you need support in figuring out how to move toward your next opportunity, schedule some time with me, I’m happy to support or coach you toward what is next.