Reference

1 Kings 18:25-40 & 19:9-13 (Elijah's Contest and Cave Experience)

Subtitle

Discover why even the most successful leaders cycle between extreme confidence and crippling doubt. Through Elijah's dramatic story, learn how to recognize this natural pattern and emerge stronger from seasons of uncertainty.

Summary

Every entrepreneur knows the jarring shift from absolute confidence to crushing doubt - often without any change in circumstances. This episode dives deep into what we call "the perspective cycle," using the biblical account of Elijah's extraordinary journey from his greatest victory to his darkest valley. After orchestrating one of history's most dramatic public demonstrations of power, Elijah found himself hiding in a cave, paralyzed by fear. This isn't just ancient history; it's a blueprint for understanding our own entrepreneurial journey.

We explore how this cycle isn't just normal - it's necessary for growth. Through Elijah's story, we uncover three critical principles for navigating these cycles: understanding that situations don't change (only our perspective does), remembering our true identity during dark times, and learning to recognize that cycles are predictable and temporary. Most importantly, we discover how these valleys become opportunities for exponential growth when we learn to listen for the "still small voice" guiding us forward.

This episode offers practical insights for recognizing these patterns in your own leadership journey and provides tactical approaches for maintaining perspective when doubt creeps in. Whether you're riding high on success or questioning everything, you'll learn why this cycle is actually a gift and how to use it as a catalyst for your next breakthrough.

Top 3 Growth Tips

• Recognize the Perspective Pattern: Your circumstances rarely change as dramatically as your perspective of them. When feeling doubtful, remember that your situation hasn't changed - only your view has. This awareness alone can help break the grip of doubt. [12:45]
• Listen in the Silence: The most powerful guidance often comes not through dramatic events but through the "still small voice." Create intentional space for quiet reflection, especially during times of doubt. Resist the urge to fill every moment with distraction. [32:18]
• Use the Valley for Vision: Periods of doubt aren't just obstacles to endure - they're opportunities to rebuild stronger. Use these times to reassess, reimagine, and establish a more solid foundation for your next phase of growth. [28:54]

For more tips, discussion, and behind the scenes:

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About Ken Ott:

Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. To connect or learn more, visit: 

• KenOtt.com
• Ken on LinkedIn
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• Ken on Instagram
• Ken on Facebook
• Metacake - An Ecommerce Growth Team
• Dough - We own amazing DTC brands
  
  

Show Highlights

[00:00] "Have you ever gone from extreme confidence to absolute discouragement in just a short period of time? Maybe you're there right now."

[03:15] Ken shares how he is amazed at how quickly perspective can shift without circumstances changing

[07:42] The setup of Elijah's contest with the prophets of Baal

[12:30] "He has this absolute belief...that he's going to be able to bring fire from heaven to this altar"

[15:45] Discussion of how Elijah mocks the prophets of Baal during their failed attempts

[18:20] The dramatic moment when fire consumes the water-soaked altar

[22:35] Elijah's shift from victory to fear after Jezebel's threat

[25:40] "God asks him twice: 'What are you doing here, Elijah?' It's about identity."

[28:15] The importance of listening for the still small voice rather than dramatic signs

[31:20] How the perspective cycle is actually an opportunity for growth

[33:45] The value of "blank space" and avoiding constant distraction

[35:10] Ken explains why boredom can be a gift for creativity and hearing God's voice

[37:25] Final thoughts on using cycles of doubt as launching pads for growth