When You Pick Up One End of the Stick You Also Pick Up the Other

Last week I talked about getting clear on want.

But knowing what you want is only half the battle. You also have to want the side of shit that comes with your want.

In other words, when you pick up one end of the stick, you also pick up the other.

Here's what I mean:

Every "want" has a shadow side.

Want a satisfying relationship with someone?

Choosing that means you're also choosing disagreements, not being able to make decisions without taking someone else into consideration, not sleeping with other people and all sorts of other things.

Want to have a kick ass body?

Choosing that means you're also choosing not eating whatever the hell you want, spending time exercising instead of doing other things, drinking lots of water instead of alcohol, etc.

Want to run a business?

Choosing that means you're also choosing mundane tasks, managing people, financial ups and downs and lots of other non-sexy things.

You have to embrace the shadow side of your work. Opposing counsel that makes every interaction a drawn-out nightmare. Putting up your own money. Clients who make your life miserable.

These are the things that come with the job you've chosen. Seeing this clearly instead of shaking your fist in the air stops unnecessary suffering. You have enough stress in your life. Stop being surprised that this job is hard. Embrace it. 

You can, and should, get clear on what you want. But as you do that, also consider that whatever you choose, you're choosing the shadow side too.

When you pick up one end of the stick, you pick up the other. Choose wisely.