Hi Chris,
Someone asked me recently, “what if you’re not in this line of work, what would you do instead?” I had the same reaction as my 10-year-old self, when I responded. A soccer player?
That seems to be the right answer… Then, they never ask another question… I figured it’s an innocent answer for someone who played soccer her whole life…
What did I miss?
Signed,
Soccer lover
~~~~~~~~~~
Ah dear soccer lover, you’re discovering the art of “being an individual.” And it certainly IS an art!
You see, when people “expect” you to give them the answer THEY want and you don’t, they don’t know how to handle it. It’s actually a great strategy to use to get out of conversations you don’t want to have.
On the other hand, you gotta be, who you be. If that’s what you’ve always wanted to be, then why not tell the truth?
You know how many girls want to be soccer players with the rise of women’s soccer success in this, and many, countries? Now that women soccer players are being paid well, finally, it’s not an unlikely career!
Their reaction, however, reveals a lot about the questioner.
One, they only care that you give them the “standard” answer they expect. Which means they’re shortsighted and don’t want to know the “real” you.
Two, they may be thinking she can’t be for real… So they are judging you based on some preconceived notion of a soccer player. They may be comparing your age, height, speed, etc. to see if you’re a serious player.
Three, they may think…this sounds a bit childish and full of immaturity, so I don’t want to continue talking with her. Count your blessings that they’ve moved on and so should you.
What do you notice about all of these potential revelations about our questioner?
They are ALL about them.
They are not REALLY interested in…
- Who you really want are
- What you really want to do
- What’s in your heart of hearts
- What stirs your soul
Well, you get me.
So don’t let their questions nor their reactions steal your joy, your bliss, your dreams.
Recognize that THEY couldn’t handle the power of who you are.
And know that you are more powerful, because you have a dream for more in your life.
~ Find the gift!
If you have a question, challenge or issue that you’d like me to respond to for this blog, simply email me. I will respond to as many as I can and you will remain anonymous.