Have a Standard

*RAISE YOUR STANDARDS AS YOU DIVE INTO 2014*

Often times, I will reread notes or listen to messages I have noted as “something to remember”. When the new year approached, as usual, I found myself going through notes from a 2013 message I heard last January spoken by Pastor Jamal Bryant of www.Empowermenttemple.org. Within my notes, I had written the following:

5 Keys to Happiness:

1. Surround yourself with “real relationships“. I recall Pastor Bryant stating 85% of our happiness is relative to people in our life, not our stress. He posed the question, “Is your life a zoo or a jungle?” Now I believe we know the difference between the two; one has structure and is well-maintained for visitors, while the other has a sign at the entrance stating “ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK – ANIMALS UNLEASHED!” For this new year, consider the concept that it is time to get control of your animals… Animals that you can not control, release them to the humane society and control the one’s that you can, self! One other thing, real relationships in your life will reflect authenticity and reciprocity.

2. Have an aligned assignment, something that matches your purpose. Most people consider themselves working just to survive or make ends meet and have no clue of their purpose while on earth. Take time to assess your gifts and talents. What are you great at? Are you doing what you’re great at? Is your greatness being utilized in your current position? According to Jamal Bryant, “Your atmosphere does not match your call.” If you identify that you’re in a position that does not align with what you are great at doing, consider that this year, 2014, your gifts will either be used right where you are because after your assessment, you now know what your gifts are, or you’re moving somewhere else!

3. Get Financially Fit! Do not fear being poor or financially dependent but fear God! Money can easily cause for people to become a slave to it. Work hard just to get it and never enjoy it; Worry thinking about how you will get it or keep it. Look, money is meant to have. Use your gifts to get it, but, use wisdom to keep it. Pastor Smokie Norful said in his first Sunday’s message, “First things are first.” So, what are your first things? If you’re anything like me, your first things are #1 Tithing (Giving where you fellowship your FIRST 10%), #2 Sowing (Blessing others), #3 Saving (Creating a store house – untouched), and #4 Spending (Bills, vacations, entertainment, etc. are last NOT first). Try it this year and take heed to how your finances become in shape.

4. Complete an accurate self-actualization, know who you are. Knowing who you are starts with being totally honest with yourself. You know, admitting to your denial. Also, ask trusted individuals in your life how they experience you – better Brace Yourself though! Pastor Bryant shared last year: When you know who you are, you will not be content with where you are because you are aware of what you don’t know and feel compelled to do more. Make sense? You don’t settle for less and mediocrity. Have Standards! Whether it’s in an intimate relationship or friendship, with family, or on the job, have a standard and stand on it! Go after what it is you were purposed to do and request that people  respect you. You deserve it!

5. Have harmony of health. Take care of your body and your body will take care of you! A friend once told me that your body is like a car, if you feed your car bad gas, your fuel injectors may become clogged and harm your engine. I’ll take it a little bit further; if we fail to regularly maintain our fluids, we risk burning our engine. Your body needs to be oiled, strengthen, and flexible. Do not keep passing up the bike or treadmill for snacks. Keep your body hydrated and have a healthy 2014!