#reverb10: On Future Self
The prompt for today comes from Jenny Blake, the author of Life After College: The Complete Guide to Getting What You Want.
December 21
Future Self
Imagine yourself five years from now. What advice would you give your current self for the year ahead? (Bonus: Write a note to yourself 10 years ago. What would you tell your younger self?)
Wow…this may be one of the biggest challenges yet from this project.
I actually had to step away for a while and think on this one. Here is what I came up with…
If I evaluate where I want to personally be in 5 years, I certainly want to implement some lessons learned from previous years. Here are a few that are invaluable.
Be Diligent
The simple truth is that nothing worth having comes without some kind of sacrifice. The free lunch or free ride is rare…and for most of us…will never happen at all.
It pays off to pay attention to those things which are most important to us. We need to be diligent to stay on top of them and not allow them to get away from us. Never lose track of your finances, your relationships, your work, etc.
Pay Attention to the Little Things
The difference between the good, and those who live and breathe greatness, is attention to detail. If you are to set yourself apart, you need to make sure you deal appropriately with the little things, because the little things if not managed properly, can put a lid on your ability to achieve your goals…both personal and professional
Learn to Say “No”
Part of the reason we wear down and lose focus is that we allow ourselves to get spread so thin that we do not have time or energy to pay attention to those important things. Evaluate your roles in life, is there anything there that is not adding value to your life? You probably should not be doing that thing. If you are slammed…don’t say yes to anything else. Nothing good can come from it.
Keep It Simple Stupid
Simplicity is all the rage these days, and there is a reason for it. Life is better lived when we are not being dragged or slowed by anything in our lives that does not add value (yes the term “non-value added” should be used much more than it is).
Value People More Than Stuff
I have spent most of my time on this planet pursuing what we call “stuff”. The truth is, our culture teaches us that if we are not getting “stuff” and accumulating “stuff” then we are losers, and are not keeping up like we should. So that is what we are supposed to do…right?
Not so fast…
Stuff wears out…stuff breaks…stuff does not deliver happiness.
However, people and genuine relationships last. A true friend, in good times…and bad, will be there. A true friend will give you joy when no one else can. Blessed is a man (or woman) who has friends. Even more blessed is the man who has found a best friend in his wife…or a woman in her husband.
I am sure at some time, I will add to this list. However, at this time, this is what I need to think on…and the pep talk I will be giving myself as I enjoy the holidays with my family and friends.
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