Time and Perspective

byRobChristian

244 followers

11 years ago

The biggest reason that I decided to become involved in internet marketing was so that I would be able to spend more time doing the things that I love with the people that I love. I have always had a full-time job and at least 1 or 2 part-time jobs on top of that, so any extra time that I have is usually spent with my family. There is nothing that I wouldn't do for my family and the time sacrifices have always felt worth it. Not so much anymore. If there is one thing that stands out to me so far this year it has been my ability to put things into perspective and re-prioritize the things that really matter in my life.

Last night, after coming home from my full-time job, we were toned for our 4th structure fire in a 10 day period. (I am a paid-on-call firefighter in a small town in Northern Michigan) I have done this now for about 9 years, and during this time I have seen tragedy and losses that most people could not even imagine. I watched 4 families in less than a 2-week period lose their homes and everything they have worked for. Things like this don't usually affect me (at least not outwardly) as I have been trained for many years to do my job and prepare for the next one. The mental aspect of this career is much harder than the physical as you experience a wide range of emotions from start to finish on just about every call for help you respond to. Anyway, as I was sitting at home on my couch afterward reflecting on the events of the evening, I couldn't help but think about just how fast you can lose everything in the blink of an eye. Everything you work for, the time spent obtaining it, the time away from family, suddenly seems so insignificant.

What then keeps us going in the face of tragedy and setbacks? For me personally, I believe it is to know your "why". Why is it that we do the things we do? Knowing the answer to this question is a very powerful motivator. Whether it's your personal life or your business life, knowing your reason why will not only keep you motivated to succeed, but it will help get you through the tough times in life when you might question whether your actions are really making a difference. Believe they are and you will! I will always be a firefighter because I enjoy being able to help people in a time of need. When I am able to quit my full-time job I will continue to serve my community as a firefighter because it gives me drive and the sense of accomplishment knowing that I am there when called upon.

This year I have also changed my perspective as it pertains to my business goals as well. Money is certainly a driving factor for me as financial success would free more time for me, but I have realized that it is not the most important focus. People and relationships. That is what is most important to me going forward with my business. Without people and strong relationships, your business really means nothing. I have decided that I will focus on helping others as much as possible while building my business. Whoever, however, whenever. If you have something of value that you can offer to others and you actually take the time to do it, then you are already successful. I guess my point in writing this post is to point out that sometimes you need to take a step back and re-evaluate what is important in your life. Spend time with your family and know your "why". It is when you get to this point that you will truly be able to see your focus and understand what it is you need to do in order to be successful.

I hope this post has given you some encouragement and if I can ever be of assistance, please do not hesitate to let me know. Until next time-

-Rob