Have you been barking up the wrong tree?
What a funny expression! Barking up the wrong tree...chasing something that might not be yours to chase or maybe isn't even where you're looking. Picture the dog at the foot of the tree thinking the squirrel's there when it's already moved on to the telephone pole.
The best time to realize this? Before you go all the way there and get it. Realizing before you get there and course correct.
What are some signs you're barking up the wrong tree?
Frustration.
Maybe you've been somewhere too long and it's not giving you what you want or need anymore.
Irritation.
You're finding that the things that used to be engaging are now a source of irritation.
Just not "feeling it" anymore.
Try as you might, you're not as jazzed as you used to be about that thing.
The "feeling it" part matters.
Your default is to go up into your head. To rationalize it, to explain to yourself why doing what you're doing is what you're supposed to be doing. Doing this despite your heart and oftentimes your gut screaming at you to let you know that's not what it wants.
Trying to assimilate somewhere where you don't belong. Even if you're just realizing it now.
That's okay, realizing that you're somewhere that's become a little too small for you or where your aspirations aren't being fulfilled is the first step in assessing where you want to go next. Because knowing what you don't want is the first step. But it's not enough. You have to have an idea of where you want to go, and often knowing what you don't want is a really good pointer. It's information that's leading you towards the things that matter for you.
Now what?
Are you ready?
Let's get to it...
Your challenge...
Are you barking up the wrong tree? Maybe you're not feeling frustration or irritation, for you it could be something else.
Maybe it's a good time to pause and reflect here...to find out what this brings out in you.
The best way to do this?
Remember a time when you realized that you were in the wrong job, relationship, location, anything that when you look back you had that moment of recognition.
Notice how you felt when you knew something wasn't for you.
Maybe there's tension in your body. Tightness in your chest or an ache in your belly. Pay attention.
What cues are there for you to recognize?
This is important. You're learning how to read your own body and often, your body knows before your brain does.
Stepping away from something, someone, a group, a situation, can be tricky. Learning the signs that it's time...that's gold.
Need some help? Contact me and let's set up your FREE chemistry call.
Cheers,
Ann
Are you barking up the wrong tree?