“Timing is everything.” You’ve probably heard the saying, but have you had to live it out? Good timing is an intuitive balance between waiting and acting; either extreme can get us into trouble.
Waiting isn’t easy because so many of us want it now. Those of us who prefer action tend to think of waiting as a waste of time or lost opportunity. Yet, great things can happen when we wait.
Waiting gives us time to reflect and learn.
Some of the best lessons in life are learned during our wait. Waiting forces us to be still, to think, to notice, to reflect, and to be aware of what’s going on around us. Waiting is not wasteful if we use it to learn, to get stronger, and to prepare for what’s next.
Waiting enables us to maximize our off-season.
What do athletes do during their off season? They don’t just wait for the next season. They spend the off-season training and strengthening their skills. That’s what we should do during our waiting season!
Waiting allows the opportunity to develop.
The next time you watch a football game pay attention to how the players let the play develop. When the running back takes the ball, he doesn’t necessarily punch through the line immediately. He moves but at a pace where the blockers can create an opening. If he acts too soon and doesn’t let the play develop then he won’t have the opening to run through.
Waiting teaches us to move forward intentionally.
Forward movement is helpful when going through a timing situation. Forward movement doesn’t mean running full speed ahead without stopping; movement can mean paying attention to doors that open and doors that close. If one opens, don’t procrastinate with your next step. But if the door closes, wait. Redirect. Don’t let your fear of taking action paralyze your movement.
Timing is everything. What are you going through in your life or career right now that may need you to wait or to thoughtfully move forward?
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