Walking in Your Calling Without Losing Yourself

Let’s be honest: there are days when pursuing your calling feels like a tug-of-war between a distant future and the reality you have to live in today. How do we navigate between the dreaming and the doing? Do you find yourself trying to sort through your racing thoughts while slowing down enough to be present in the moments that matter–with your babies and your husband?

This month in The Graceful Grind, we're talking about how to walk in your calling without losing yourself, others, or your sanity in the process. Because yes, we were made to do meaningful work—but not at the expense of our souls, our sleep, or our marriages.

The Tension: Purpose vs. Peace (or are they even against each other?)

There is a tension we all feel: the desire to live out our God-given purpose, and the desperate need to still be human while doing it. I’m learning (sometimes the hard way) that it is possible to honor your calling and still be kind to yourself and to take time for the simple and fulfilling things–read to your kids, prioritize date nights with your spouse, (or if you’re single, get all that friends/family/community/church/hobby time in!)

But how? What does it look like to lead well at work, love well at home, and still keep Jesus at the center when the texts, calls and emails won’t stop and neither does your laundry or dish pile?

Let’s get to it, y’all!

Honoring God in Your Work & Calling

Whether you're leading a ministry, growing a business, or rocking the mom-life marathon, the work you do matters. I was watching the new season of American Idol this month and the new judge, Carrie Underwood, reminded someone to “never say you’re just a stay-at-home mom,” and I want to repeat that!! Sometimes we don’t see the fruit that comes from the hustling in the “big things.” It may come from obedience in the small things—like taking your family to church even when you all woke up late and you’re on hair wash day 5 (or more). Faithfulness is shown in the mundane things that nobody sees.

You don’t have to prove your worth by burning out. Your calling isn’t performance-based; it’s presence-based. (Say that again.)

Making Space for Marriage

Let’s talk about the real MVPs of our lives: our spouses.This is my own personal way I can shout out to my incredible husband who has loved me for over half my life and has supported every dream I’ve wanted to chase. Without meaning to, marriage can sometimes take a backseat when you're pouring yourself into everyone else. But your marriage is your first ministry, and keeping it strong isn't about grand gestures—it’s about small, daily choices to stay connected.

This month, I’m reminding myself that being physically present doesn’t mean much if I’m not mentally present. Things I can do to remind him he’s on my mind: stopping to kiss him goodbye, standing up to greet him hello, genuinely pursuing connection and conversation during the day, and laughing about inside jokes keep our marriage tethered when everything else feels chaotic.

Our daily walks together are game changers for this uninterrupted time to give each other attention, say a lot, or say a little. But the space is left and space for things to happen naturally is good. (Talking to my hyperactive over-planning self!)

Speaking of Planning…

Let’s be real—uncertainty makes us want to fix, control, and plan everything down to the minute. But often, God invites us to walk by faith, not by five-year spreadsheet.

If you’re in a season of change or confusion, you’re not failing. You’re being formed. The process might be messy, but it’s holy. Hold onto this truth: God knows the end from the beginning, and He isn’t rushed or worried—so you don’t have to be either.

A Real-Life Story from My World

This year has just begun and already many things have felt like they have come rushing in or crashing down in my life. IYKYK. In these moments of total fear, these are the words that I repeat: He goes before me. There is no moment that God is not prepared for or is preparing me for.

This phrase comes from Deuteronomy 31:8 when Moses is preparing Joshua as his successor and tells him this, "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

I’m not sure what you may be facing that feels scary, but just remember that the Lord goes before you and walks alongside you. He will carry you when you can’t walk and to put it simply, He is a good father that loves you and cares for you. Thank God.

Self-Reflection time. (ew, I know.)

Here are some journal prompts or reflection questions to help you stay aligned:

• What does it look like to walk in my calling without striving?

• What small moment this week reminded me of God’s faithfulness?

• Where am I trying to control instead of trust?

• How can I intentionally pour into my marriage this week?

Resource I’m Loving

This month, I’m digging into Habits of the Household by Justin Whimel Earley. This book shows how ordinary routines are extraordinary opportunities to live out the love of God in profound ways. We are supposed to introduce our children to the biblical rhythms of work, play and rest, but are we living by the same rules?

A Prayer for Your Journey

Lord, thank You for calling us to meaningful work, and for walking with us every step of the way. Help us to honor You in how we lead, how we love, and how we rest. Give us wisdom to know when to press in and when to let go. Show us how to be present in our homes, focused in our work, and faithful in the process. Amen.

With grace in the grind,

Monica Lynch