The kick of complacency

This is my lesson for the day, I seem to learn it the hard way more than I should...

com·pla·cen·cy:

1. a feeling of being satisfied with how things are and not wanting to try to make them better : a complacent feeling or condition

2. a feeling of smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements

Part 1, not so bad, is actually good depending on the situation, although I think contentment may be a better word for this. Part 2; hmmm... "DANGER, DANGER Will Robinson!!!"  This is the part I seem to get caught in at times and end up in trouble.  Then a swift kick comes around the corner and reminds me not to get too comfortable and to stay alert.  As much as that kick hurts, and believe me it hurts, I believe it's a blessing.  It's really tough sometimes but looking at it from a different angle it pushes me (or, well, kicks me) to look for better; better in myself, better in others, and better opportunities.  It's like okay, that was a nice break, but now wake up and strive for more.  Hopefully, now I will be better at separating the 'part 1s' from the 'part 2s' and keep myself from getting kicked.