Pausing in our Planning

"Power struggles are a no-win game. Instead of engaging in a struggle, open yourself up to a different response. Let go of the push for power and instead be curious about your own body, awareness, and each moment's endless possibilities." Psychology Today,  June 2022 

Sometimes, make that many times in marriage, we want to take the reins and do things our way. It feels safe and comfortable to love with our fist closed tightly around our idea of the perfect life together.

Like a judge in a courtroom we often say “I know best, and you’re missing the mark,” either consciously or even unconsciously with our spouse when we disagree on some of life’s fundamentals.

Silly as it may sound, this can even tap into our adventure planning. I remember one year we were planning a trip to Maine, for instance and I wanted to climb a mountain. We went the wrong way after a tourist told us the wrong direction and soon my family was on a hike much too hard for the kids.

We pushed through but looking back it was my stubbornness, not the tourist, in the sense that I had to do the adventure my way that led us down the wrong path. I had wanted a memorable vacation and I had sure gotten one. My family still teases me about that day. They remember both my overdoing and honestly what felt like God’s protection over us.

I learned something that after day, too - the pause. A pause allows you time to think and pray and to balance with your partner who can and does help you.

As we plan our July adventure coming up in the Redwoods, I’m so excited to apply the lessons I’ve learned and show my kids and husband that I respect them when they say something feels too advanced or difficult. I already know Wes will ultimately do the same for me as he’s doing the work also even though he will surely need to pause.

Will you join us in leaning in as you plan your next adventure?

As you plan for this balance and pause, I also have a special early access Adventure Planning freebie tool for you as you process right here!