Someone once called me predictable. I recently thought about the adjective and how it first felt to be described that way.
The National Western Stock Show is currently in progress in Denver, Colorado. If you know me, you know I often I experience Fear of Missing Out (FOMO). This is especially true every year I’m not in Denver experiencing the nostalgia of the NWSS.
The bull displays in the stockyards are one of my favorite parts of Denver. Each year, producers across the nation bring their most competitive bulls to display. The goal is to convince other cattlemen to use their display bulls in the upcoming spring breeding season.
I lay this out to preface my feelings on predictability. The Angus breed is one of the most well-known and well-respected cattle breeds in the world. They are known for consistency and high quality, among other valued traits. While I’m a Simmental breeder through and through, the Angus breed is admirable.
After being called “predictable,” I was telling a friend about the jeer and how rude I thought it was. I want to be known as an exciting, adventurous vagabond. However, my friend shifted my perspective. He said, “What’s so wrong with being predictable? Angus cattle are predictable and that’s what makes them so valuable.” Successful Angus breeders have figured out what works best and they do it over and over and over again. Their cattle are predictable and profitable for that reason.
While I still don’t use the word predictable to describe myself, I’ve decided a more preferable adjective is dependable. As a cattle breeder, that is 90% of the battle. Raising and retaining bulls who are dependable breeders and cows who are dependable calvers is KEY. This thought process brought me to be more-than-ok with being predictable.
On the World Race, my teammates know concrete facts about me: I will talk about agriculture; I make time to read my bible every day; I don’t like messes and I organize with intention; I work out regularly; I get up and go to bed early.
They know when I say I will do something, I will do it. When I make promises, I keep them. When I commit to something, it gets done. I guess I’m pretty predictable after all…
One of my teammates struggles in the mornings. She asked us to hold her accountable to waking up on her first alarm. Another teammate replied, “Just ask Carley. She will make you GET UP!” I’m predictable. I’m disciplined. And, I’m thankful for it.
My World Race family didn’t know me six months ago. They now notice what the “predictability” and work ethic of a Midwestern farm girl looks like.
Commitment and accountability are valuable principals. I think the Lord did something special by instilling them in me and I’m certain they’re helping me further His kingdom.
After all, Jesus was predictable.
He provided. He was trustworthy. He did what He said He would do – always.
Sometimes I think God wants us all to be a little more predictable. In what ways can you hold yourself accountable to dependability, consistent follow-through and commitment in 2020?
