Your choice of life partner has a profound impact on every aspect of your life - from your health to your finances, your spiritual growth to your goals and aspirations. Yet, all too often, we underestimate the importance of selecting the right mate, friends, business partners, and acquaintances who enter our lives.
As a certified John Maxwell Team Member, I spent years applying the principles of success I learned in the business world. However, I neglected to apply these same guiding principles to my personal life and relationships.
Raised to believe in the inherent value of every individual, I embraced the idea of being a blessing to others. While this mindset remains central to who I am, I've come to realize that not everyone belongs in my inner circle. Not everyone shares in my successes, and not everyone genuinely cares for my well-being.
Discernment is key, even in the midst of apparent success. Experience has taught me to heed the warning signs and listen to my intuition when something doesn't feel right. It's essential to be selective and mindful of who occupies the spaces closest to your heart.
Scriptures in the Bible speak to the importance of guarding your heart against negativity and harmful influences. Just as a breastplate protects the torso, our relationships can either shield us from harm or leave us vulnerable to anxiety, insomnia, headaches, strokes, high blood pressure, and other health issues.
Setting boundaries and protecting yourself from toxic relationships is vital to your overall well-being. Remember, relationships are meant to enhance our lives, not detract from them. We are wired for connection, for sharing our joys, sorrows, and triumphs with others.
So, let's be intentional about our relationships and mindful of their impact on our health. By nurturing positive connections and safeguarding ourselves from negativity, we can create a life filled with vitality, purpose, and fulfillment. After all, our relationships shape not only our experiences but also our very existence.
With love and empowerment,
Shirlene Nordé