#1 Release Obsession with Possessions: Once beyond that basic level of Maslow’s hierarchy (a roof over our heads that doesn’t leak, reasonably healthy food in the fridge), every expenditure is essentially a choice between two alternatives: hedonistic enjoyment in the moment or future proofing your life. You can buy a new car, or you can purchase a perfectly serviceable used car and put the difference in your 401K plan. For me, “buying” financial independence and security, growing my rainy-day fund, was always the better purchase.
#2 Release “other esteem”, lock in true “Self-esteem”: Most folks’ sense of self is based upon the opinions of others, making their sense of self-worth hostage to the mood of the crowd. “My sense of self is anchored deep within, from that flows wonderful peace” – NSC Affirmation
#3 Release Blame and Shame: These are harmful emotions, destructive of the human spirit. Replace with Responsibility and Accountability. Learn the lesson and then move briskly forward to create better future outcomes.
#4 Release Self-Doubt: Instead, install a deep belief in yourself and your ability to find or create a way. Balance is important here; the poet Rudyard Kipling’s words are instructive: “If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you, but make allowance for their doubting too…”
Closing Quotes:
“Shame is a soul-eating emotion.” – Carl Jung, 1875-1961
“Blaming does not solve a problem; it usually only makes people defensive.” – Catherine Pulsifer
“Your chances of success in any undertaking can be measured by your belief in yourself.” – Robert Leo Collier, 1885-1950
“The blame game is a waste of time. Any time you’re busy fixing blame, you’re wasting energy and not fixing the problem.” – Rick Warren
“It is preoccupation with possessions, more than anything else, that prevents us from living freely and nobly.” – Bertrand Russell, 1872-1970
As always, I share what I most want and need to learn. – Nathan S. Collier