I have experienced the hardship of financial scarcity. Growing up in a small, economically challenged mining town in Montana, I witnessed many struggles. The environment was harsh, both in terms of weather and the local economy.
I vividly recall a moment when our heating system failed. In Montana, that can be a life-threatening issue during winter; the wind chill often plummets to 20 or 30 degrees below zero. It was frigid, and we lacked the funds to restore the heat, as my parents awaited their bi-weekly paychecks.
I grew up with scarcity, yet abundant in spirit.
Picture four children in a home without heat while facing sub-zero temperatures. What do you do?
My mom took action by heading to the garage, retrieving our camping tent, sleeping bags, and every coat and blanket we owned. She set up the tent in the living room and piled everything inside, including us kids. At one point, the power went out, so we resorted to cooking dinner on Bunsen burners and patiently awaited our paycheck.
My parents somehow turned it into an enjoyable experience. At school, other kids would ask, “What did you do last night?” We proudly told them we were camping in the living room! We were blissfully unaware of the gravity of our situation. Despite growing up with nothing, I experienced a sense of abundance.
Money isn’t essential for a fun, fulfilling, or engaging life. My parents devoted countless hours to us, and I wonder how they managed to raise four children. Eventually, I found myself in bankruptcy while pursuing my aspirations of becoming a notable writer, trainer, and content creator. My journey was challenging. What steps do people take to navigate the obstacles I now confront?
1. Start with yourself, not your financial status.
Your self-esteem can profoundly affect your market value. If you don’t appreciate yourself, others are unlikely to appreciate you.
You possess something unique to offer, even if you haven’t identified it yet. To achieve greater financial success, you must construct a positive and empowering mindset.
2. Own your responsibilities.
No matter your current predicament, it’s your duty to address it. You may require assistance, training, or support, but the responsibility to steer your life back on course lies with you. Opportunities will not miraculously appear, and winning the lottery is not a viable strategy.
Your life can change in two ways: either external factors—like an unexpected inheritance—allow you to pivot, or an internal drive emerges—fueling greater passion, commitment, and the will to succeed.
3. Deliver immense value that ensures payment.
Generating income hinges on having something to sell. What are you offering to the world?
Primarily, you are marketing yourself. Your service ability, character traits, and the capability to provide value are what you’re selling. This isn’t about selling out; it’s about presenting yourself as someone who is reliable, caring, and committed to getting the job done. Without this, growth and opportunity are out of reach.
Unearth your inner strength to influence and transform your surroundings. Once you tap into this power, you have something worthwhile to offer.
If you’re an entrepreneur: Do you have a product, service, or program ready for sharing? How refined is your offering? Is your messaging clear? Is your marketing top-notch? Are your distribution and customer service exceptional? If not, continue honing these aspects. As you enhance these areas, your income will follow.
If you’re an employee: It’s time to take initiative. What if job security hinges on who is eager to learn and contribute the most? You need to extend beyond your daily tasks or emails. Actively consider: How can I enhance value here? This mindset should permeate your daily routine.
4. Foster an obsession with service.
Become passionate about providing more than anyone else. Make the decision to contribute creatively. There may be risks, but living fully is worth it!
Look for opportunities to contribute in your workplace. Identify whom you can assist, mentor, or how you can add even more value. Aim to be indispensable in your organization, allowing you to continually serve and uplift others. Providing support, new ideas, and value makes work enjoyable.
5. Avoid busywork; pursue your true calling.
Many people appear occupied but are engaging in tasks that do not fulfill their purpose. They recognize they should have left their current position five years ago, yet they haven’t summoned the courage to confront themselves and say, Today is my day to change.
Face the truth if you’re on the wrong path.
You won’t amass wealth doing the wrong things. If you do, you may find yourself pursuing money for its own sake, devoid of purpose or significance.
6. Cherish each day.
Your life should carry immense value for you. If you recognize the worth of your days, you’ll accomplish more.
People often feel financially strapped because they devalue their time. Their days feel wasted as they engage in trivial activities, like reading gossip or aimlessly browsing online, failing to progress personally or professionally.
Vow to value today.
Commit to enhancing tomorrow. Consider how you can infuse more value into your days. Work diligently, and as you repeatedly ask, How can I serve? How can I contribute? How can I elevate this? breakthroughs will occur, the magic will reveal itself, and financial benefits will follow.
