“Work to become, not to acquire.”

“Work to become, not to acquire.”

Elbert Hubbard, 20th Century American Writer

Image from Unsplash by Edward Howell

Our nugget of wisdom today reminds us that the true value of effort lies in personal growth, not material gain.

In a world obsessed with accumulating wealth and status, this philosophy shifts our focus inward, toward developing character, skills, and wisdom.

The journey of becoming is about continuous self-improvement, learning and nurturing our unique talents.

While acquiring possessions may bring temporary satisfaction, the fulfillment that comes from evolving as a person is lasting.

By working to become, we enrich both ourselves and those around us, building a life defined by authenticity and purpose.

Success is not measured by what we possess but by who we become in the process.

EXERCISE:

In what ways does today’s quote challenge your current motivations and goals?

How would focusing on becoming — rather that acquiring — change your attitude and approach to success?

“The creative mind is the playful mind. Philosophy is the play and dance of ideas.”

“The creative mind is the playful mind. Philosophy is the play and dance of ideas.”

—Eric Hoffer, 20th Century American moral and social philosopher

Image from Unsplash by Ben Whites

Try the exercise of counting to one hundred by tens. This is no big deal for us adults, but for a two or three-year-old it’s pretty neat stuff.

Here we go:

10 — TEN
20 — TWENTY
30 — THIRTY
40 — FORTY
50 — FIFTY
60 — SIXTY
70 — SEVENTY
80 — EIGHTY
90 — NINETY

What comes next for my grandson Weston is, of course, TEN-Y! 🤣

How creative and playful are you in your personal and professional pursuits?

What enjoyment would you experience, and what new ideas might result to improve your life if you played and danced with a few more ideas?

EXERCISE:

Consider looking into the philosophical thinking and meditations of the stoics. One of my favorite books easily digested by even beginners is The Daily Stoic, by Ryan Holiday.