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Kathy Carlton Willis's avatar

I love this article and taking Alysa's story as inspiration. I can't wait to hear more of your plans for a pivot as you decide how to "adult" on your terms. You mentioned sometimes feeling chained to your desk and wanting a life apart from work that aligns more with what your spirit desires. That work/life balance is hard to figure out! Especially when there are still bills to pay. I remember starting 2024 having peace that I was being gifted a "gap year" from God to pause my goals and figure out where life was taking me. No, check that, where I was taking life! But then some major pivots NOT of my choosing happened. I'm so glad I already had a gap year mindset. But it spilled over to 2025 and now starting 2026 with that same open handed gesture of "Here I am Lord. I'm not holding tightly to my ideas of success. What do you want of me?" And I'm 100% sure it will be something that not only glorifies him, but also brings life to my spirit. And I'm certain of that for you too. There's never just one right open door. But there are a lot of doors that could have been okay for a while but were never meant to be permanent solutions. Thank you for this inspirational article. You bring thoughtful dialogue that shines light on many areas where I have ponderment.

Michelle Rayburn's avatar

It's hard when things outside of our control change our plans and hinder our desires. Thank you for that reminder that God provides opportunities that are mutually beneficial!

Jeffrey Zheng's avatar

Amazing to hear how Alysa Liu inspired you! For more about her backstory, check out this piece my team just wrote:

https://fgpsports.substack.com/p/redefining-success-alysa-lius-journey?r=7naprt

Robyn Mulder's avatar

Great thoughts, Michelle! I was inspired by her too. Such a joyful young woman. I wish I'd learned to live like that when I was her age...guess I'll just have to start now. :-)

Michelle Rayburn's avatar

Yes. It's never too late to make a change. :-)

Amy Fritz's avatar

Thinking about doing things on my terms, as I just finished (mostly) a rough draft of a memoir. I don't know if I want to do more with it than polish it up a bit and have it for myself and my family. It's interesting to consider choices outside of worry about what I should do or the opinion of others.

Michelle Rayburn's avatar

Congratulations on finishing the draft! Yes, it's interesting when others have opinions that might not match your desires.