Webster defines the “Sweet Spot” as the center of a tennis racket where the ball makes the most effective contact. “The bigger the sweet spot, forgives off-center hits- an optimum point or combination of factors or qualities.”
It is where effort matches talent, and a flow is found, requiring less energy and creating more impact. While not effortless, it feels more joyful and powerful and possesses rhythmic power. Imagine matching your inherent talent with an environment and community that gently challenges but simultaneously supports and innovates.
Imagine working in a place with no boundaries of title or money. No judgment or competition of others but rather a natural alignment with your skill, collective vision, and growth. Anxiety is lowered when acceptance and diversity are appreciated and your worth has been leveraged and recognized.
Is this where you currently exist? If not, what is out of balance? Are you clear about what you want and where you excel, or are you relying upon others’ expectations? Are you standing in your confidence and self-worth?
My question to you is, do you deserve this? Is it possible? The answer is “Yes” for both, and to get there may require some internal reflection and recalibration. Many people hold on to the belief that you cannot realize your worth without the title degree or constant ladder climbing. They assume that without stress and pressure, greatness can not be found.
I would argue the Sweet Spot is not a destination, it is an alignment of who you are today, a knowing that you are enough.
Your misalignment is likely born out of fear. Fear that you don’t deserve success (imposter syndrome), fear that others may judge you if you relish contentment and satisfaction. The push toward advancement is a cloak of distraction. Rather than looking inward and risking vulnerability and calm, we push harder. Finding your Sweet Spot requires humility and bravery since it asks you to admit you may have arrived. You are where you want to be regardless of others’ perceptions.
Many C-suite executives suffer from anxiety, depression, high stress, and loneliness. But how could that be? Haven’t they reached the pinnacle of their career? By whose standards? Yes, they have reached the top of the ladder only to find they are nowhere near their Sweet Spot. They are out of alignment and now need continued recognition and ladder climbing to support the life they created- a vicious cycle of anxiety and disappointment.
My Challenge to You.
This is an exercise to find your Sweet Spot. Creating clarity and connection with your deepest desires will highlight current imbalances. From this point, you can identify areas of focus.
Answer these questions: (refrain from judgment or editing!)
I feel aligned when I am…
When I do X (above) , I feel …
What do I assume brings alignment but doesn’t? (Identifies current behaviors that sabotage success)
What are the five things I am most afraid of?
The intersection between belief, reality, and what you imagine is possible will bring joy.
You create your happiness and definition of success. Dare to think beyond the norm and challenge yourself to align with your desires and talents. The choice is yours, and it is here that you will find your Sweet Spot.
Comments