Obstacles

Part of being successful is acknowledging the obstacles in your way, and to the best of your abilities planning for them. There will be unforeseen circumstances, but for the most part we know our challenges. It is important to set realistic goals. It is important to evaluate resources. We must always count the cost. Some journeys require you to travel alone. Some roads are long and narrow. No matter what path you take this year, count the cost. Evaluate and acknowledge your obstacles...so you can overcome them.

Reach

How far is your reach? What does your sphere of influence look like? Do people listen when you speak? Are you a leader? Are you an example? Your reach extends past your immediate circle. In this new digital age, every post and every picture can have a global impact. Things go viral everyday. We should be mindful of what we do because of our reach. Our reach impacts others. Our touch, our speech, our sentiments, our opinions matter. They have reach.

Sweat Equity

Genesis 3:19 (KJV) In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.

The fall of man is described in the third chapter of Genesis. Adam's disobedience caused the ground to be cursed. What was once easy became difficult and challenging. Disobedience has consequences, both seen and unseen. Truthfully, most of us don't value things until it costs us something. When we invest our own blood, sweat, and tears, we have a greater appreciation for it. We see it all the time. Rich kids blow through their inheritance. Kids break toys and devices because they don't see the value in it. They didn't pay the price. What do you deem valuable? What did you pay to get it? What have you paid for with sweat equity? 

More

There's more. I want more. I need more. I should be doing more. There's more to life than....What? What is that in us that can't appreciate the now? What is that in us that makes us think that what we have is not enough especially since there are people who live in unspeakable poverty. There are war-ravaged countries where combat is the norm. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with goals and dreams, but there needs to be some balance. We need to learn to appreciate what we have now. Sometimes, that promotion means less quality time with your family, but it does mean more money. Which one takes a priority in your life. Sometimes, what we want costs us more than we can afford...literally and figuratively. Ask yourself if your "more" is a blessing or a curse. Will it hinder or profit you in the long run? Sometimes, sacrifice is necessary for the greater good. Sometimes, you do need a bigger house or a bigger car. Sometimes, you do need a better job with better benefits. Sometimes, you absolutely do need more. Make sure you are seeking after the right "mores." Make sure you evaluate what "more" is going to really cost you, and if it's really worth it.