A young, 21 year old college student asked to meet with me yesterday. He was ending an internship and wanted to ask me several questions that might help him when he entered the real work force next year.
He asked me all the normal questions about how I achieved my success. He wanted to know about my family, and if I considered myself successful. I answered those questions with rather stereotypical responses which seemed to satisfy him. Then, he asked me something which surprised me a little bit, and my answer seemed to surprise him too.
“So Mike, I really appreciate your time today. You’ve really helped me. I have one more question for you. What life lesson or advice would you give a 21 year college student?” he asked.
I sat for a second and said “Be grateful for everything you have and don’t waste time wishing for the things you don’t. Celebrate your health. Appreciate your family, friends and the love you have in your life. If you have a car, be grateful that you do, and don’t waste time being sad it isn’t better. If you take the time to be grateful for what you have, God, the Universe, or whatever you believe in will provide more opportunities for you to have more of it.”
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He looked at me for a second a little puzzled. I assumed he thought I was some sort of new-age nut, but then he said “No one has ever said that to me. Everyone else just said to work hard, etc. It is a really great answer. Thank you so much.” And, he left.
I do start each day being grateful for everything I have. I am not a robot or a chanting monk, but I work hard at saying out loud that I am happy for everything the Universe has given me, and I honestly get more. I grateful for every reader that this blog helps.
Feel free to email me at mike@directyourcareer.com
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I like this. I saw a poster that said “happiness is a choice” and it has stuck with me. A little trite, but true. I know people that have a good job, a great family, good health…no problems that would make any gasp or weep and yet to talk to them you would think that their life was a misery. Sadly, their life is a misery because they have convinced themselves of it. There are people that have virtually nothing battling something devastating whether it be disease, a loss of a loved one, perpetual unemployment, whatever that wake up with a smile and optimism for the day. They made the choice to look at the opportunity awaiting them rather than focussing in every irritation. I work hard to be in that latter group.
You are very wise my friend.
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There are times that i dont read more than two lines but i honestly enjoyed what i read. Bravo !