Thought Rocket

Dear Why Team member,

I hope this message finds you well and encouraged.

Has anyone ever told you that you have OCD, an obsessive compulsive disorder? If so, congratulations are likely in order. Why?  Have you ever really stopped to considered why someone would say you have OCD? Why they would diagnose you in such a way? Consider the person who has said this to you. Could it be that... 

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...they themselves are not comfortable with your actions, even if in the end they are contributing to a very productive life, serving you and others and likely them? How successful have they been with their own life?

Hmm. 

I remember a number of years ago sharing with one of my life coaches, Dr. Roger Hall, that I had received what was apparently a criticism that I had OCD. Roger was quick to clarify, having known and worked with me for many years, he said I had OC, not OCD. The "D", of course, stands for disorder. He said that without "OC", little would be accomplished in this world. What he was conveying was that to have the capacity and tenacity to obsessively compulsively work toward a specific goal is how skyscrapers have been built. People with "OC" have built bridges, businesses and even put a man on the moon. Consider reading "The Great Bridge" by David McCullough and/or "Magnificent Desolation" by Buzz Aldrin for a big taste of the power and the achievement born from people who can be obsessive compulsive.
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If your ability to intensely focus does not keep you from leaving your house until every pencil is parallel and/or every glass in the cabinet is exactly spaced by a quarter inch, let no one's judgement of you as having OCD affect your self worth. In fact, you may choose to see their observation as a compliment, that just needs a bit of adjustment. Consider replacing the word "disorder" with the word "advantage". When someone claims you have OCD, simply say, "no, it's not OCD, I have OCA: Obsessive Compulsive Advantage."

It's interesting how those with strong self disciplines and work ethic can often lead others to feel less about themselves. We are all on a journey. Disciplines are developed over time. Productive behavior is either going to be seen as an example to follow or as evidence through comparison for someone's own low self-esteem. Don't be less to help those who feel that they're less feel better. Be yourself and encourage them to find their own possibilities.

Lead by example, when you find yourself being judged, ask Why. And from here on out, when you hear someone say you have OCD, stand a bit taller knowing it's much more likely OCA.

Make it a great week,
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Steve Luckenbach
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