When Life Leaks: Choosing Action Over Worry

My water heater has a leak. Is there ever a good time to say that? Absolutely not! Yet, as I sit here writing this, I can confidently say that now is particularly inconvenient. The situation feels overwhelming, and I have a choice to make about how to respond.

I could easily wallow in the negativity of it all. It's justified to think about how this is bad timing or to stress about the costs I’d rather not incur. The leak has gone from a tiny trickle to a steady stream, and I can’t help but envision coming home to a flooded floor. These thoughts are valid but ultimately unhelpful. They do nothing to resolve the situation and only serve to increase my frustration.

But what if I choose differently? Instead of fixating on the problem, I can focus on what I’m doing to solve it. Here’s what I’ve done so far:

1. I borrowed a friend’s shop vac to suck up the water accumulating in the catch pan.

2. I identified where the leak was coming from.

3. I called my friend John, a former water heater sales representative, to get expert help. His experience provided me with valuable insights into the leak’s location and potential solutions.

4. John recommended a high-quality tankless water heater brand for me, specifically Rheem.

5. I reached out to multiple local companies for quotes to compare prices.

Currently the water heater leak is only a trickle.

This situation isn’t just about a water heater; it illustrates a larger experience. Life throws challenges at us regularly, and how we choose to handle them matters. Too often, we fall into a habit of fixating on the negative, dwelling on our problems, and amplifying our worries. That cycle leads to stagnation, not improvement.

What does lead to progress? Taking deliberate action. I sought guidance from someone knowledgeable in the field I needed help with. Sure, I could have researched water heaters extensively and eventually become an expert myself, but I’d rather not spend my time that way. Instead, I welcomed the shortcut that John’s advice provided.

Focusing on solutions opens up a world of possibilities. By shifting my mindset from problem-centered thinking to action-oriented steps, I’ve not only addressed the immediate issue but also empowered myself to tackle future challenges. When we concentrate on solutions, we create momentum that propels us forward rather than getting stuck in the quagmire of negativity. This proactive approach can transform how we handle both small and significant obstacles in our lives and businesses.

Do you know anyone who has unknowingly shifted their focus to the negative? If you’re feeling stuck in a similar mindset, let’s shift gears together. Contact me today, and let’s work on finding solutions that propel you forward!