Just Because You Can, It Doesn't Mean You Should : Walking Away from Good Opportunities
My freshman year of college I decided to begin a journey selling make up. I quickly learned that I was good, almost scary good at it. I had always loved make up, and LOVED sharing it with other people. I was really young in the company, but success came easy and it was a ton of fun, but it just never felt "right" to me.
It wasn't that I didn't like the product, the people I worked with (because I LOVE them), or the opportunity that the company presented; I just wasn't "all in."
After quickly finding success, and finding myself just one month from driving a free car, I knew in my gut I had to walk away.
My heart didn't want it in the same way my brain did. and in the depths of my spirit, I knew that it wasn't God's path for me. To the dismay of many people, I gave it up because God whispered:
“Just Because You Can, It Doesn’t Mean You Should ”
Although I had found success, that success was not a symbol of me finding my purpose. What a hard lesson to learn, and because I'm hard headed it took me doing this TWICE to finally admit that it was right.
Our society teaches us that success with money and recognition is a reflection of finding and excelling in our purpose. However, it's just not true. You can be a successful drug deal, making plenty of money, but do really think that's God's calling on your life? No, probably not.
I enjoyed clinging to the opportunity of selling make up and finding financial freedom so young. It was thrilling to be in control of my finances, my schedule, and surrounded by incredible women; however, it had served it's purpose, and I had to walk away.
Walking away from this opportunity was scary, and even scarier knowing that I could be successful but not fulfilled in life if I wasn't careful. I knew I had to walk away because even though, Unapologetic was not even "a thing" yet, I knew in my heart that ministry was my true purpose, and that for me, selling make up wasn't my ministry.
I firmly believe that direct sells of all kinds can be an incredible opportunity, and truly meant to be the careers of many people which lead to happy and fulfilled lives, it's just not my life.
Maybe you are struggling between following God's calling on your life and staying in the current season of stability or "success"; or your simply having a hard time saying "No" to adding something else to your calendar.
Just because you can make time for something, it doesn't mean you should.
Just because he loves you, it doesn't mean it's a healthy relationship.
Just because you will make a lot of money, it doesn't mean it will bring you fulfillment.
Just because you are lonely; it doesn't mean you need a husband.
Just because you made brownies, it doesn't mean you should eat all of them.
Just because your friends are doing it, it doesn't mean you should do it.
Everyday we are faced with small and huge opportunities, some that could even potentially make our lives better. However, it doesn't mean that these opportunities are a part of God's plan for your life, or that they are a necessary part of your journey.
Today, I encourage you to take some time talking with God and seeking discernment about the decisions you are making. As you wrestle with making a tough decision, know that you are in good company. Sometimes we have everything in our tool box to fix a problem for someone else, but sometimes it's just not our problem to fix. Just because you can, it doesn't mean you should.
Lastly, hear my heart when I say I don't regret selling make up for the company I chose for even one second. The business skills, friendships, and financial benefits I gained during my time working my direct sells business are things I am still truly grateful for today. However, it was only meant for a season and not forever.
Don't be afraid to walk away from your comfort zone, from your plan for your life, and walk with God on the journey He had set apart for you. He will lead you into a new season of your life where you will experience His goodness and faithfulness in a way you can't where you are right now.
oxox,
Kendall Mariah