It is important to stop and realize the blessings in life. In today’s world, we are always seeking more, what’s better and what’s next. More than often we have 80% of what we need and only desire 20% more of what we want. We want more money, more recognition, more freedom, etc. How do we refocus on what’s really important and fight for something with true significance?
Most of us have a family and we love them very much. If your family is healthy, has food, clothing and shelter, I would say you have it pretty good compared to the rest of the world. Unfortunately, comparison is a big problem and we tend to compare ourselves with people who have more meaningless “stuff.” If you are going to fight or strive for more, fight and strive for those who need help. Your family is a good place to start, but there are several other ways you can help others through your desire to have “more” meaning or purpose.
You want more out of life. This feeling is natural. Once you have the basics covered like health, food, shelter and clothing, you can start on other areas that can help others. Avoid the warning signs of wanting more for the purpose of having more stuff. Here are three areas of focus for you to achieve more and help others at the same time, which will be more rewarding than buying more “stuff.”
1. Family. As a husband and father of two, I put my family’s priorities first. I make sure we maintain the basics and have a good life style. Our family is out growing our house and it’s time to look for another option. This is probably one of the best times to sell and worst times to buy a house. I have and will continue to push myself out of my comfort zone to provide more, make smart decisions, and move my family into a more sustainable house for the long term. When we sell our house and buy a house we are creating opportunities in the marketplace that will also benefit others.
2. Fitness. Do you consider fitness a selfish activity because it cost money, takes up time, and you believe it only directly benefits you? If so, you are dead wrong. Putting your health first is selfless. You need to be in your best shape physically and mentally to handle all the challenges that life brings you. You need to be healthy for your family and your obligations. If you are in good shape, you will also have more energy to help others.
3. Finance. Most people hate to live by a budget, but enjoy living above their means until something bad impacts their finances. At the time of the accident or incident, the “victim” wishes they had played by the rules, lived by a budget, saved an emergency fund, paid down debt, invested in assets that increase in value and cash flows. Look at 100% of your current spending habits, cut 20% and start creating margin in your life so you can invest and win down the road. If your budget has no room to cut, create more income and create your margin to win. Everyone should also donate or tithe a portion of your income to help others or organizations you support.
I hope this post finds you 80% content with where you are in life. That’s a great achievement. Don’t be fooled into thinking that obtaining 20% more of a salary, investment, or new “stuff” will make you happy.
Keep your eye out for the warning signs of the desire for more. Life is about balance, meaning and purpose. Start by striving to be 80% content. If you want to push for more, push to have more, so you can help more. Take care of your family first and then help others around you.
What’s one thing you are grateful for and one thing you can start today to help others?
James G Morrison 