Being Aligned

A Series: Who Do You Want to Be in 2026?

From the start of this series “Who Do You Want to Be in 2026?” I have presented four ‘being’ words: reflective, intentional, compassionate, and curious. I want to end this series with Being Aligned. I am not talking about being aligned with a friend, political party, or spouse. I am referring to being aligned within yourself. If we are not practicing the ‘being’ of the first four words of this series then alignment is unlikely. Being aligned is more complex than the others because it is about the relationship between what we believe, say, and do.

When asked I imagine that most people can recall what they believe, what they say, and what they do. However, few people take the time to ensure that those three categories are aligned. One of the ways in which I like to teach people life lessons is explaining what it is NOT. There are a few examples I would like to offer in this category.

During our short stint living in Oklahoma I experienced the frustration and confusion of a lack of alignment. When the kids were going back to school in the fall of 2021, the school did not require the students or teachers to wear masks. However, they also did not allow both student’s parents in the building at any given time, stating they didn’t want too many people in the building at the same time. So on one hand, there were no limitations while the kids and staff were there but strict standards for the parents entering the school - practices that don’t align.

I have witnessed this in other areas of life as well. One of the reasons that I have stepped away from the traditional practice of attending church as a Christian is that, upon reflection, I recognized that a lot of what was being stated as belief did not match up with the outward expression in word or deed. I have witnessed in the church space and Christians on the internet time and time again quote Scripture or a phrase they have heard said for many years as it suits them and then essentially disregard it when it doesn’t.

When our beliefs, words, and actions are out of alignment we call that hypocrisy. How does this happen? It doesn’t usually happen all of a sudden but gradually over time. We accumulate knowledge and experiences and don’t take the time to assess what belongs and what doesn’t, what aligns and what doesn’t.

Since I have given examples only of what it looks like to not be aligned, let me give you an example of what being aligned might look like. I believe that family is a priority therefore I share that sentiment with others and also create moments and arrange life accordingly, whether it be deciding where to live, planning family activities or taking them/ their opinion into consideration when responding to other life events.

Being aligned allows us to live a life of authenticity and clarity for ourselves and others. Being aligned brings us the freedom and confidence we need to move through life. If we begin practicing being reflective, intentional, compassionate, and curious we will find that being aligned is a natural outcome.

If you want to experience the freedom of being aligned and need someone to walk alongside you I would love to be that person. Sign up for a free consultation today!