Dabbler Status

 I learned something new about myself this week.  I learned that I'm a dabbler. I've been reading the book Mastery by George Leonard.  In his book he introduces us to 3 characters.  The Dabbler, the Obsessive, and the Hacker.  Me, I'm a Dabbler. The dabbler LOVES to start new things.  She can't hardly contain herself over the excitement of the new adventure.  However, newness of the adventure quickly wears off and she hits the plateau. She discovers things are harder than she thought and her enthusiasm turns to boredom as she starts longing for the next new, shiny idea. She's always the adventurer, never learning what it really feels like to truly master what she set out to do.  You'll have to read his book to meet the Obsessive and the Hacker, but I'm sure you get the idea.  

It's interesting and well, a little discouraging finding out that being a dabbler is actually a thing.  Worse yet, figuring out that it's actually describing me.  I'm quickly figuring out the importance of persistence and the blessings that come from self mastery.  President Faust taught that success is earned by perseverance.  Jeff Sandefer said "the secret of success it to stay the course. Love the game. Success is not the destination, but the journey."  The most promising, wonderful blessing that comes from staying the course is that as we align ourselves with God. As we have faith and courage to find the calling he has for each of us individually, we will contribute to something greater than ourselves. If we follow that calling God will continue to bless us.  In an address given at BYUI called A Hero's Journey, the speaker gave the following  insight: he said "using your gift to change the world will change you in the process." That my friends is a beautiful promise that I would give up my "Dabbler" status for any day!