Posted Notes
Over the last couple of years, I developed a habit of posting notes on the wall in my study. The notes are in my line of sight while I sit at my desk and work on my computer. They are an eclectic collection of personally tested truths that remind me of who I am, what I am called to do, and how I want to encourage others to be. I find them to be useful reminders for me personally, organizationally, and relationally.
When I face a problem, feel somewhat off, or am unsure of what next step to take, I find myself looking at my posted notes and reflecting on the experiences they represent. They serve as a bit of a jumpstart into activity that directly correlates with my identity. When intrusive thoughts and lies begin to permeate my thinking, one or more of the posted notes will jump into my vision and help reframe my state of mind. At times they function as a spotlight to reveal hidden sin. Other times they serve as a gentle nudge to encourage a direction I was already on. Most of the time they remind me of a greater truth that I get to claim in the face of whatever may come my way.
As a leader, I find that the posted notes provide me with wonderful ammunition. They help me prepare for meetings, avoid vision drift, provide common language for core principles, and offer compelling strategies for a full life. The simple phrases on the notes unlock vaults of powerful truth. The brevity of words that fit on a 3-inch by 3-inch square create memorable phrases that pack a powerhouse punch.
Not every thought makes it onto the wall and so far, every thought that made it to the wall has stayed on the wall. I am careful not to pollute my line of sight with meaningless drivel, placating sentiments, or half-hearted clichés. I want to see things that I know have real power to impact my world. Each note is life-tested before being stuck to the wall.
My “posted notes” are a source of joy for me, but unshared joy is incomplete. I hope to remedy my incompleteness by sharing these notes of joy with you. I pray that you will grapple with them, hold them up to the Light, chew on them over time, and start to write your own “posted notes.”
Here are some guiding principles for writing posted notes:
Think about “aha” moments in your life…things like breakthroughs, life-altering inspiration, deep personal reflection, and powerful observations.
Pay attention to phrases that you find yourself thinking about and saying often. Are they words that have true value? Are you intentional with your thoughts and words? Look for the phrases that are actually helpful and consider them for your wall.
Give it time. Not every thought belongs on the wall. Make sure you have lived the truth before you post it on the wall. If you do not have any real-life experience to back up the words, the words will be empty, and your wall will become a hinderance instead of a help.
Practice expressing big concepts with just a few words. Write several paragraphs to describe the truth you want to convey and then chisel it down to one simple and concise statement. Refine the statement until it packs as much meaning as possible in the fewest words.
Share your posted notes. Bring them up in conversations. See if they have any traction with other people. Do they encourage and inspire your family, friends, and coworkers?
Your life matters. You matter. You have the opportunity to transform your world by being transformed in your world. Love people with God’s love like He loves, share good news in good news ways, and have fun doing it. Be intentional with your voice and use your words wisely. Find your “posted notes” and keep them at the forefront of your vision.
