Excuse My Rant, but Really...

By Susan Tolles

I want to join in the chorus of my 1010 Park Place colleagues who are ranting about self-absorbed people who feel entitled to live an easy life. Kim Alexis wrote a fabulous piece about the narcissistic society that has been created by people who are constantly promoting themselves rather than serving. Esther Zimmer brilliantly pointed out that creating a life you love does not equal a life of ease. Now, it’s my turn.

I received an email with “an incredible free gift,” promoting a new book and online community—one of the many I receive because someone might have gotten my card at an event, or they have connected with me on Linked In—i.e. I didn’t give this person permission to add me to her mailing list.

This new sure-to-make-me-a-successful-millionaire training said “Use this Manifestation  Breakthrough Kit to FORCE the Universe to Give You Your DREAM Life…” (caps included in the original promotion) without hard work or struggle.

Really?

First, you cannot force the universe to do anything on your behalf. You are a microscopic being in a creation that you have absolutely no control over. The planets, gravity, rain, wind, sun, moon and everything else that is in play at any given moment will not bow to your dreams. There are millions of people in the world who will go about their days without you, even after you have gleaned this new knowledge out of the Manifestation Breakthrough Kit. You can only control your own actions, and your dream life will come when you have clarity of purpose and a plan to achieve your dreams—which includes doing the work. Your dream life will not magically fall out of the sky after you read this new book or listen to the “transformational MP3.”

Next, I was promised a “rush of excitement, surging through your chest” after listening to the audio. What really gives me a rush of excitement is spending time with my grandchildren, walking alongside a woman who connects with her God-given purpose and finds new hope, or supporting a non-profit that rescues women from sex trafficking. My “wealth” comes from treasured relationships and the opportunity to serve others, and my success does not come from material possessions.

Yes, we live in a world filled with people who want to just think it and it will happen. I prefer to dream big dreams, seek the wisdom of those who are smarter than I am, and take a giant leap of faith as I work tirelessly to leave my mark on the world. I cherish the universe I live in and its Creator, and appreciate that all the tiny little parts work together to support my life, not submit to my life. I love being in authentic communities of women who want to build one another up through their stories of failures, perseverance and victories. And I know that my struggles will be what draw other women to me.

Vision your dream life, then work to make it happen! You already have what you need to make life count.