Are You an Alice?

I have a friend who calls me and asks for support in making decisions about what to do next in her life. She is perfectly capable but a little unsure. She says it helps to have validation or get someone else’s perspective on a situation. I agree…but, there has to be follow through for any progress to be made. It reminded me of my friend MJ’s post concerning Alice…

Re-blogged from: Emjayandthem’s Blog

So, I’ve been quietly mentoring a young woman who works in my office. We’re not in the same work group or function or even “job family.”  But, there’s something about her that I recognize: a quiet dignity that screams, “I need a change. I can do more. See me. Please.” She’s educated. Intelligent.  Articulate. She’s also stuck, frustrated and scared. I’ve encouraged her to research other roles within the company; we have a national presence, there are opportunities, but one must look for them. Alice in Wonderland I’ve explained the path I’ve taken, of volunteering to improve a process, of stepping in to help other departments, of being part of the solution, not part of the problem. I’ve supported her as she applied for open posts and offered my help as she readied herself for interviews. I’ve silently cheered when she stepped up and inwardly cringed when she talked herself out of new opportunities. I’ve suggested she try a simple exercise called “to a tee.” I’ve taken it all in as she explained how busy she was with whatever and why she never did do it. And … I’ve stepped away when I realized she just might just be an Alice. “Alice came to a fork in the road. ‘Which road do I take?’ she asked. ‘Where do you want to go?’ responded the Cheshire Cat. ‘I don’t know,’ Alice answered.        ‘Then,’ said the Cat, ‘it doesn’t matter.” ― Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland

I’m home from my schooling in Colorado with new excitement and ideas about how to proceed. During my quiet time in the mornings, I get most of my inspirations about the “next step” Next week, I’m hauling my old round pen panels I bought back in the 80’s, to the ranch in Dripping Springs. I have some new ways to teach and some of the lessons will involve an enclosed space so I’m resurrecting this old, bent and rusty riding pen. I figure, as time and funds make themselves available, I will replace each panel with a newer version. It doesn’t have to be perfect in the beginning. The main thing is that I take a step forward toward my goal and I can get into the pretty details later.

Is there something you have been waiting to do but are putting off until everything is “just right”?