The Most Precious Commodity…
While watching a favorite program of mine recently, an ad selling international tours came on. The president of the company narrated beautiful and exotic scenes of destinations and then said the following: “When you really philosophize about it, there is only one thing you don’t have enough of, and that is time…Time is the only truly scarce commodity. And when you come to that realization, I think it’s very important that you spend your time wisely.” That hit home for me.
In my practice I see that concept in the lives of others and I’ve experienced it in my own life. As humans we are experts at ignoring the obvious and burying our heads in the sand – especially when it matters the most. This month’s article is dedicated to the most precious commodity we have – time. My usual approach with clients is a very compassionate and understanding one but it may be time for a little tough love.
We always think we have time. And my friends, I hope you’re that lucky. But I know, firsthand, that some don’t get that luxury. The single mother of younger children whose breast cancer has returned. The fit 56 year old who suffered a fatal heart attack on the ski slopes. The father of 4 who was struck and killed by someone on their phone as he crossed an intersection. None of these are Hollywood productions, these are everyday events that happen here, locally, involving people we all know and yet we still have that tendency to believe that things like this only happen to others. And we need to stop. We need to be grateful for every blessed day we have. And we need to plan for the what ifs.
Each of these scenarios involved more than the central characters, they involved families and loved ones. And in each instance, imagine them not having taken care of their families and loved ones before their untimely departures. No powers of attorney, no wills or trusts, just gone – leaving families, minor children, businesses, property, plans…all in midflight.
What would you do if you knew that you would leave your loved ones earlier than you thought you might? Would you prepare? Would you do your best to leave them in the best position possible? Now answer yourself – why haven’t you done this?
If you think it’s difficult, you’re wrong. I can attest to that. If you think it’s time consuming, again, you’re wrong. If you think it’s prohibitively expensive, wrong again. Instead of thinking about all the reasons for why not now, have the courage to believe that now is the perfect time. Use whatever motivation you can muster – a new year’s resolution, a divorce, a new marriage, the birth of a child, Wednesday hump day, or the duty you have to those you love. There are so many right reasons to look out for you and yours. And I can help.
Take stock of your 2022 and in looking forward to 2023, make this the year that you step up for your family, take care of your business, and count all your blessings.
If I can help in any way, let me know. A happy, prosperous, and blessed new year to you and yours.
