We are taught from a young age to learn to push ourselves.

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That we should try harder, even if it is painful.

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And rarely are the consequences mentioned.

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Maybe it is not such a good idea to push?

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Perhaps it may be necessary at times, but are we considering the ramifications?

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When we push ourselves physically, we can build more muscle.

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At the same time, when we push too much, we can damage our bodies.

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The long term effect on our bones and our heart are often overlooked.

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When we are building a business or a career, we are taught to put all our energy there.

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That those long nights will pay off.

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And the time away from our families will be worth it.

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But is it really?

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Is it worth giving up the time to see our children growing up?

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Or the damage it does to the relationship with our partner?

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And what about the temptations to cut corners and get it all done faster so we can get to the payoff?

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When we push ourselves without a clear understanding of the long term we are doing ourselves a dis-service.

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Yes, we may achieve something more.

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Have we considered what we give up in the process?

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Have we looked out the emotional, mental, physical and spiritual toll it will take on us?

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We rarely question these little common ideas that are pervasive throughout our culture.

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It has always been true so it must still be true!

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Is it really?

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It might have been good for others int he past, but is it really good for us now?

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When we feel the need to push something, perhaps that is a sign to do some deeper questioning.

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Why is it so important to push?

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What happen if we don't push?

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What will we miss out on if we continue to push?

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In a crisis or emergency, it may make sense to push.

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Does it make sense to live our entire life that way?

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Where are you pushing where you have not considering the consequences?

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Perhaps there is a better way than pushing...

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~ Sam Liebowitz, The Conscious Consultant