As I am sitting here preparing for my upcoming speaking engagements, I wanted to share something from my personal journey. It has been awhile since I last blogged on my site. Thinking about my to-do list I started to feel stressed and overwhelmed so I decided to write.
There are many nights I am up late working on various projects until two or three in the morning. Sometimes I find myself wanting to complain about not being able to come home and not have anything to do. I can’t sit around for long having a pity party because I have to remind myself this is for my career and to remain relevant.
Currently, I am working on a few research projects, serving on two boards, revising two articles to be submitted, presentations, handouts, and working full time at the VA hospital. When I am not working full time at the VA hospital, I am fulfilling my obligations as a Lieutenant in the Army Medical Reserves. Needless to say, I think I understand the challenges of wearing multiple hats. Most days I find myself praying for wisdom, and endurance to continue this journey of life.
This past year I prayed about not returning to my comfort zone, so I could grow to another level professionally. After receiving confirmation from God, I made the decision to cancel a few things, and not return. Cancelling a contract that I’ve had for several years was scary because I had nothing else planned at the moment, but in order to receive the desires of my heart I needed to be obedient.
I had a lot of different things going on, but I managed to submit several proposals this past fall. I had no idea if any of them would be accepted or if my research was interesting enough for the committees. The possibility of suffering harm or loss can be explained as the future of our expectations.
When we take the opportunity to free ourselves of any limits or doubts is when we cannot be afraid and take that leap. The fear of security holds us back from our full potential. Taking risks allows you to free yourself from being comfortable. One thing that we are guaranteed to lose is time. Forget the negativity and habits that are limiting you. Keep the faith and take risks and open doors to your possibility.
Michael D. Gatson 2015
Upcoming Presentations:
- March 27, 2015 | Maritime Institute Linthicum, Maryland| Maryland Social Work Conference
- April 2, 2015 | Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago, Rosemount, Illinois| NABSW 47th Annual National Social Work Conference
- July 10, 2015 |University of Maryland’s Downtown Location at the School of Social Work, 525 West Redwood Street between Paca and Green Streets.| University of Maryland Continuing Education Program
- TBA |Catholic University School of Social Work Continuing Education Program| The Catholic University of America
