The Future is Purchased by the Present

“The future is purchased by the present.”

—Dr. Samuel Johnson, 18th Century English Poet

Image of hourglass

Image from specialneedsparenting.net

Evidence has shown that there is a high correlation between an individual’s ability to delay gratification, and their long-term level of achievement.

All one need do is examine masters in almost any endeavor to see the level of effort and amount of time it took for them to achieve what they desired. Some traded large pieces of their lives for a potential pot of gold at the end of the line. This can often be the case when people work tirelessly in vocations and careers they don’t enjoy.

Those who are attuned to their vision and value often find the courage to take bold actions. Their efforts in pursuing their dream becomes like compound interest on the daily investments they make.

EXERCISE:

How can you lead an even more fulfilling life by having your present professional and personal efforts be their own reward, and not just a means to a future you hope for some day?

“The fire which seems extinguished…”

“The fire which seems extinguished often slumbers beneath the ashes.”

—Pierre Corneille, 17th Century French Dramatist

Image of Smokey the Bear

Image from smokeybear.com

Smokey the Bear is an American advertising mascot, created to educate the public about the dangers of forest fires. His famous slogan, “Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires” has been revised with the recent wildfires that burned across California.

Today’s quote relates to the flames of our personal or professional lives, and how many people appear to have had their “fire” extinguished.

Coaches and other supportive people often help these individuals discover the slumbering embers below layers of ash. They help find the kindling and fuel action to get the flame burning brightly again.

EXERCISE:

What fires are smoldering beneath the ashes of your life? How can you find the people and resources to make them burst into the flames of a more fulfilling and accomplished life?