For years I was the first person to jump into a debate and fiercely argue my views. And why wouldn’t I? I knew I was right and they were wrong.
I was also quick to jump in and solve everyone’s problems. I am really good at troubleshooting and fixing things, and to me it is easy and fun. But it created some problems:

  • It created nothing but chaos.
  • I was taking on their problems as my own. I already have enough problems, I don’t yours as well!
  • My help was often unwanted. The other person would get upset at me for “solving their problems” instead of listening. I would get upset because I felt unappreciated.
  • I robbed the other person of the learning experience that God was giving them. Learning from your mistakes and solving your own problems is the fasted path to personal growth!

So now I find myself saying “not my circus, not my monkeys.”

I don’t have to agree with your actions, choices, and lifestyle decisions. Unless they are picking my pocket or breaking my bones it isn’t my business…not my circus, not my monkeys!”
Most of the time I say it to myself, and it is a powerful reminder of some key concepts:
It isn’t my business: as time goes by I find myself taking a more libertarian view. Don’t get me wrong,  I have strong personal views. I know what I believe in and have done the research to ensure my views are based on fact not just emotion or rhetoric. I also firmly believe that you have the right to your own views. While I enjoy a lively discussion and using the debate to help clarify and improve our views, my job isn’t to stamp out views that I disagree with!
It isn’t my job to fix this: I have enough on my plate as it is. I dont need ti be jumping into your problems and taking them on as my own. I don’t need the stress and you don’t want my help!
This is different from helping a friend in need. If you come to me for help I’ll be there to help. I wont solve your problems for you but I will pitch in, guide you, and be there for support.
We each have to take our own path: one of the best parts of life is learning and growing, and if I jump into your problems I rib you of this blessing.