MARCH 12, 2021
I love Stephen R. Covey’s book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” which first came out in 1990. The book is about personal leadership and the human condition. The book shows us how to have our own private victory, the public victory, reflection, and renewal. The book teaches us how to care about ourselves, but more importantly, how to communicate and care about others. It is a great reference for obtaining your own definition of success if you are interested.
Covey reminds us that, we first need to master ourselves before we go telling others what is right for them. We are never done learning new things in growing ourselves into a deeper sense of who we are, or if we are spiraling downward, worried about our own health, our finances or our position in life. Every one of us may be in a different season of our life which means some of us may not really look too far ahead to see what is in store for us. You want to live for today? That is fine and totally impressive, as long as you keep an eye on the end game we are playing in this life.
Covey’s Habit #2. “Begin with the End in Mind.” When you are setting out in life, what is it you are trying to accomplish? (What is YOUR Vision and what are your goals? What is YOUR definition of success? Do they match?) With whom are you taking life’s journey? What commitment have you made to continue that relationship into being a loving one and not ending up being all about you? When you mess up, can you forgive yourself first and then accept forgiveness from others? Remember, God forgives you so don’t beat yourself up with your guilt about not measuring up. You are unique and if you really check inside your engine, you might just see something that is energizing and powerful. (More horsepower than you might expect)
What is your list of END things in your life? Your bucket list? The end of your childhood, a sports career or the end of your professional career? Of course, I hope you think about the end of your earthly life because that is where we can make a choice right now as to our outcome. It is in our control and not anyone else can make that decision for us. It is called FAITH and it is SO important to living a good and joyful life.
What is your list for the end game for your children, your friends, business associates or extended family? Is it to leave them a legacy with tons of money and the ability to live a life of luxury? Or is it to teach your children to live a life of responsibility and accountability for their own future. Yes, we all need help along the way but learning to be accountable is one of life’s main principles.
I see too many people striving to live a life of leisure and comfort. Working hard is good but desiring bigger homes, more toys, and more things just distracts us from living the real life we want, not what we see in others. Searching for an easy life (with tons of money) may seem to be a goal worthy of our pursuit. But don’t be fooled. Making yourself happy can only last a short time. Shoot for those visons and small successes with others that will last forever. They are called positive memories you carry in your heart and mind. It will be much more rewarding.
Elevator Guy