Archive for January, 2008

Check out Big Buts

Friday, January 4th, 2008

No, that’s not a typo. It’s “but” — not “butt”.

MillioniareMommyNextDoor features a great post today — read it here.

I want to be happier, but…

I want to make more money, but…

I want to, but…

You get the idea. Too often we make excuses as to why we “can’t” do or accomplish something. The reality is actually quite different: we can do anything we choose to do.

When you decide, it will be done. Whether you decide to do, accomplish, succeed, or overcome, when you really decide — when you make the commitment to yourself — it’s a done deal.

I’ve experienced this in my own life, and more importantly, I’ve seen it in lives around me. This isn’t something that “works” for me or someone else — it simply works.

Reality is inside your head. Our society tells us that reality is the “real world”, and for most in our society, the real world is not such a nice place.

But reality is what you make it. How you perceive the real world is your reality. Your thoughts, your desires, and your intentions are all determining factors in your reality. You have complete control over these things if you choose to exercise it.

Look at the world the way you want to see it. See yourself the way you want to be. Visualize your perfect reality, and the “real world” will follow suit.

Two Approaches — One Goal

Wednesday, January 2nd, 2008

Love what you do? Or “do” whatever it takes to make a living?

Everyone is familiar with the idea of doing what you love. The thinking goes something like this: “do what you love, and the money will take care of itself.” Wouldn’t it be great to wake up every morning and think “I get to go to work today!” Steve Pavlina recently suggested we do just that.

Steve is a personal development god in my book — check out his thoughts here.

Life wouldn’t be much fun if we all looked at things the same way; someone has to see things differently, right? Penelope Trunk thinks the whole idea of doing what you love is silly. Here’s what she had to say.

At the end of the day, the “answer” is a personal one and probably falls somewhere in the middle of these two extremes. Certainly work is easier if we enjoy it. Unfortunately, what we enjoy won’t always pay the bills. The bigger picture insists that we look at this issue from more than one or two points of view.

Yes, I want to enjoy my work and pay my bills. But absent this utopian existence, why not pay my bills while looking for things I love? My first responsibility in life is to me — if I don’t take care of me I can’t do much for others.

One of the basic necessities of taking care of me involves supporting myself. Do that (and a handful of other basics) first, and I’m well on my way to opening up possibilites and opportunities down the road. The keys are passion and enthusiasm.

If you aren’t thrilled with your current job or career choice, get excited about looking for other opportunities. Don’t limit yourself to what pays the most — chase the things you’re passionate about.

Have fun! Make the search a process you enjoy.