A Dichotomy of Virtues

Society has a dichotomy of virtues.

On the one hand we laud the virtue of confidence. The ability to know yourself, your priorities and your limits and to set boundaries accordingly.

While on the other hand, we exalt the virtue of hard work. That grit that lets you plow full steam through any obstacle and turn any challenge into an advantage.

But what about the times when those virtues conflict? Or when you’re setting boundaries with yourself?

When I hit the wall and need some down time, it feels a whole lot more like being lazy than being confident. 

It’s easy to say, “I need to get up, stop being lazy and get back to work.”

But saying, “I’ve pushed hard and it’s ok to take a break,” is tough.

I measure my effort by the number of checks on my todo list.

But sometimes it’s important to celebrate everything I’m actually working on, even if it’s incomplete.

At times, I need to reevaluate where I’m putting my efforts, so I can work smarter. And that’s part of the process.

The goal is to continually make progress. Acknowledging (and celebrating) effort, especially while redirecting it, promotes confidence and hard work (which turns into progress later).

Being patient with yourself is the hardest part of being confident.

On a personal note:

My wife and I are moving to the Austin, TX area in a couple weeks. So, I get to put effort into non-writing activities and wonder why I’m not working harder on my book. (Just kidding. I’ll be patient with myself while we’re packing.)

Also, my kid loves helping us pack.