In March, we decided to plant a family garden. We thought it would be a great teaching experience for our kids. Over the last four months, we’ve watched our little seeds grow from seedlings in a ziplock bag to being transported to a small cup with soil to being transplanted into the backyard garden. It’s been four months and we are just now seeing small fruit! We’ve patiently waited, watered and watched our cucumber, cabbage, tomato and watermelon plants grow little by little.

As we begin to see watermelon the size of grapes and a baby cucumber, I am reminded of all the lessons we can learn from a garden.

Nothing beautiful or meaningful happens overnight. There is a process to everything which cannot be rushed.

Sometimes you give things your best effort and they still dry up or don’t bear fruit or provide the results you wanted.

There is no harm in trying different methods to see what works and yields the greatest harvest.

Consistency is key. You must water and nurture your dreams everyday.

Don’t get thrown off by someone else’s garden or progress. Stay focused on your lane and run your race.

Growing a garden is hard work. I’ve had to pull weeds and grass to protect the plants. You’ll have to remove weeds and unnecessary things from your life if you want to see your greatest potential.

Keep the end in mind. At the end of your journey, you’ll have the fruit of your labor and will enjoy a delicious harvest.

~Coletta Jones Patterson

Coletta is an author, speaker, life coach and business executive who is passionate about helping others get unstuck. Her book, “Beyond Stuck: Creating the Life You Want” is available on Amazon. Connect with Coletta at info@moveu4ward.com.