Are You Ready for Your Next Elevation?

Are you ready for your next elevation? It may come in the form of a big favor, a deserving reward like a promotion, or some other significant blessing. We always want to believe we are qualified and deserving. But do we take the time to consider what we need to do to be ready to handle the sacrifices that come with it? 

I am blessed enough to be able to spend much time on a tropical island. I was looking out one day at the plants that needed trimming, again, on my property. They reminded me that the growing season in the tropics never stops.

This amazing weather brings year-round yard work! My yard tools that normally hibernate through the winter in Ohio, now have to do double duty.

I was ready to be rewarded with pleasant tropical weather, but I was unprepared for the added maintenance needed by my tools. 

As I reflected on my readiness for my rewards, I remembered one of my colleague’s excitement when she received a promotion she really wanted. Not long after, she confided in me that she was unhappy with the job. 

She wished she was better prepared; or at least better informed on expectations at that level before seeking the position. She thought It required too much personal sacrifice. Sadly, my colleague resigned one year after that promotion. 

We want to have our heart’s desires. However, have you ever stopped to wonder if you were ready for both the reward and any added sacrifices that came with it? 

Leaders Who Were Prepared for Their Elevation

Personal and professional elevation usually demands some sacrifice.  Here are a couple of leaders who were prepared for the sacrifices that came with their elevations.

One of my managers explained to me that her family time was very important to her. This means, she had to understand what she was giving up with every opportunity, whether it was a relocation or a promotion.

One thing she did to reduce the impact of her personal sacrifice, was to enroll her whole family in the same sport. They trained together and progressed together through that sport. That’s proactivity and guaranteed family time!

This other individual is from my favorite book, the Bible. She was humble and special. Her name was Mary. 

Mary was elevated to give birth to Jesus. While that appointment was out of this world amazing, can you imagine in those days the social stigma and ridicule she got for being pregnant out of wedlock? But Mary was prepared. 

How? She had extraordinary faith, a spiritual mentor named Elizabeth, and a caring partner to help her handle the pain that came with the purpose.

What Can We Do to Be Ready?

What can we do to be ready? It depends on the situation. My manager carved out family time into her schedule. 

Here are three simple approaches I continue to use to make a better decision and prepare for the sacrifices that come with my elevation.

1. Personal Reflection. I pray for wisdom and ask myself difficult questions relative to the situation. For example, what will I be sacrificing with this new opportunity?

2. Seek counsel. I reach out to my mentors. Mentors are trusted advisers who offer unique perspectives and guidance from experience.

3. Stakeholder Huddle. I consult with key stakeholders. My wife is a key stakeholder. I also made it a priority to involve my children in job opportunity decisions that could impact them. If you have ever tried relocating with a teenager, you will know what I mean! 

Successful leaders make sacrifices. Therefore, while you are praying for that coveted promotion, desired job, or glitzy material thing, don’t forget to pray to be prepared to handle any challenges that come with it. 

Ensure you are stepping through the right door at the right time by evaluating your readiness. Be prepared.  

Empowered Leader Reflection

Join the conversation.  How do you prepare for your next elevation? 

Help us learn by sharing with us in the comments below.