What "State" Do You Live In?
In a recent news article by CNBC, they listed America's top 10 worst states to live in. It cited such things as air quality, health of residents, the environment, crime rate, unemployment rate, among other things. Although the article didn't have a pessimistic slant to it, I think the title implies that if you live in one of these states, the odds are against you to live a happy and successful life. It certainly wasn't encouraging. The truth of the matter is, however, there's happy, healthy, educated and successful residents in all of the states listed. And indeed all 50 states. Why is that? Well I'll tell you why. It has to do more with what state of mind you're in, rather than what geographical state you live. You see, when a person makes a decision to set his/her course, there's very little that can stop them. It begins with a decision, coupled with a positive attitude and hard work. When people decide what kind of life they want, set some goals, and work hard, they make their own way for a successful life. There are opportunities all around us and geographical location has little to do with it. Oftentimes, people blame the economy, or their parents, or the government for not succeeding. But the truth is those things are merely excuses for not taking responsibility and taking action towards building the life they want. Is it easy? No. Are there setbacks? Yes. But once a person makes an internal decision to better their life, there's very little the economy or the government or the state they live in can do to stop them. This is state [of mind] I'm referring to, and the state I choose to live in. How about you? What state do you live in? Are you unemployed? Are you down and out? Are you feeling discouraged that the odds are stacked against you? Take heart - you have the power to change it. Start by looking in the mirror and inside your soul to determine where you are, what you want to become and what steps are necessary to turn your life around. Make a conscious decision to take action. Set some short term goals, as well as long term goals. And don't forget the most important thing - your attitude. Keep it positive and expect good things to come. As Zig Zigler once said, "Your attitude....determines your altitude." So aim high and soar amongst the eagles nomatter where you live! Best wishes.
Scott Kretsch
p.s. For the record, Tennessee was number one as the worst state to live in. As for the best? Hawaii
Recent Comments
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Hmmm, Tennessee eh. Well, there aren't too many states that give their residents free college courses like TN. Wonder what their criteria was.
Interesting stuff, I'm from Ireland and thankfully we are actually rated one of the best countries in the world to live in taking in all the factors you mentioned