Have you ever been so content with the way things are going that you sit back and let events happen as naturally as water flowing down a river? Have you ever just watched from a distance at how things run themselves if you just let them?

Metaphorically speaking, I recently had to make some serious course corrections -- not only in my personal life, but in my business as well. I was not satisfied with the way my river was running. Some parts of my river were drying up and others were as wild as the rapids of the Guadalupe River.

You see, I stood lazily in the cool breeze along the river bank, basking in the sunshine. The river’s white water cut deep ravines into the bed rock, which gradually took on a different path. It began uncovering some pretty big boulders along the way.

`I denied that there was anything wrong with the way the torrid water raced by me. But as I thought about jumping in, I wondered if I had the strength and endurance to navigate safely through all the hazards.

The swift current posed a danger, and I realized that I needed to slow the current or to redirect the flow. If that wasn’t possible, I at least needed to change my thought process.

As I stood by my river of denial, I decided to pick another spot with more inviting still waters. I changed my course personally and with business. I didn’t allow things to just run unabated. It wasn’t easy and it took great financial commitment and perseverance.

My river is now safely under control. I have learned that it is ok to stand by the river, take a break and enjoy the sunshine, but I can’t just close my eyes and let the river get out of control. It will eventually change the course I set.

My advice to each of you is that if you are not thrilled with the course of your river or how fast the water is running, you are the only person who can change it. Each one of us who is committed to our family, business, industry and association has what it takes to take charge of our rivers.

Don’t be afraid to make your course corrections when necessary.