The Power of Engagement

Life is a kingdom of choices, not of chances. The moment we order whatever we want in our minds, believe it, write it down as a reminder, make it known to loved ones, and act on it, it shall come to pass. Think of one thing you regretted doing. Then think of one thing you enjoyed doing. These are examples of good and bad choices. As a child, your parents decided the majority of things for you, such as where you would stay, which type of school you would attend, which types of foods you would eat, etc. Therefore, parents’ choices have a great influence on their children. There are a great deal of articles that support notion that parents have a large influence on their children. Though I focus this chapter on adult choices, I must also mention the effects on our children because every child, at some point, was raised by an adult. Those adult interactions helped shape their lives positively or negatively.

The challenge of life becomes real to young adults the moment their parents start encouraging them to make their own choices. Parents used to decide everything for them, now they have autonomy to make choices. At first, it can be overwhelmingly intimidating because children are afraid of making wrong choices or even afraid to make any decisions. At the same time, they are overjoyed that they are free from taking orders and in a position to be the “CEO” of their own lives. What an attractive title to have in the journey of life. Consequentially, “for everyone to whom much is given, from him much is required,” (Luke 12:48).

This chapter will help you simplify the way you make choices, and it will give you things to consider before saying, “I will do this,” or, “I cannot do this.” For the purpose of this chapter, I will introduce the concept of the Three Ps: perception, persuasion, and performance. By the time you finish reading this chapter, you will realize that the majority of the things we do, say, or think, revolve around this Three Ps concept. If we have subconsciously used this concept in the past, it will manifest more readily now that we can put it into words and actions. Our daily activities, particularly those in the workplace, within a relationship, and within a social group will improve. I would like to use a familiar name in the medical field to make this chapter a case study. I will use examples from other life events as well. As you read this chapter, reflect on how it relates to your life or the life of someone you know—and learn one or two things that you can add to your toolbox.