Success Doesn’t Mean Doing It All
Writing a book can be overwhelming. Actually, let me rephrase that—the writing part brought me peace and joy. What feels overwhelming now is ensuring everything is perfect: editing, managing the details, and launching the book’s marketing. Maybe you're feeling the same way as you embark on a major career change.
As I reflect on these steps, I realize why they feel overwhelming for me: details and technology aren’t in alignment with my natural talents and strengths. The tasks on my book to-do list aren’t things I enjoy. Can I do them? Sure. Do I want to? Not really.
I’ve also realized that much of what I’m being told to do to make this book a "huge success" doesn’t align with my personal goals for it. I’m not looking to make a fortune from book sales or build an empire. My real goal is impact. I want this book to reach people who may never have the chance to work with me 1:1 or in a small group, but who can still pick up the book and do the work.
That said, I’d be lying if I said I don’t care about making a nice income. Of course I do! I have bills to pay and adventures to fund, which require money. And yes, I want my book to be successful. Who wouldn’t?
This is where I sometimes get stuck—trying to find that sweet spot of success without feeling like I have to hustle and grind to get there. Maybe you know that place too. It’s that tug-of-war between wanting more and craving a simpler, more peaceful way of living. It’s the push and pull of pursuing big goals while staying grounded, all while facing an overwhelming to-do list. How do we find balance? Does it even exist?
This morning, I found my answer during prayer time as I was reading Proverbs. King Solomon, one of the richest and wisest men to ever live, shares in Proverbs 23:4, "Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to show restraint."
Wait, what? I don’t have to wear myself out to be rich? Deep breath in… big exhale out. And have the wisdom to show restraint? I’m not a Bible scholar and don’t claim to be, but what this said to me is that I can discern which tasks are truly necessary to achieve the success I seek. I don’t have to do all the things—especially if they don’t align with my natural talents or support the goals I’ve set for the book, my career, or my life. Instead, I can discern what I need to do based on the skills that give me energy, while prayerfully considering what’s truly essential and what can be let go.
This isn’t about avoiding hard work or shying away from specific tasks; it’s about using wise discernment. It’s about honoring the drive to succeed without wearing ourselves out to get there.
For me, this verse and this awareness brought so much peace today. I hope it does the same for you.
XO,
Sheri
Are you looking to discern what skills energize you and how your talents can help you succeed without overwhelm? Listen to this latest podcast episode to help you audit your skills.
