Our worlds are a function of our thinking. You can’t change your world if you can’t change your thinking. The world is constantly changing which means that you must always be changing as well.
Now as we all know, change is hard. Sometimes we are forced to change. Other times we desire a change but we must put forth tremendous efforts and concentration to initiate the change in personal habits and behaviors.
We should all know this; it is very hard to become wealthy. It is next to impossible to do it without an ability to change and adapt to the changes that are happening all around us. Here are 3 elements of a wealthy outlook;
- Observe the world around you for changes both subtle and blatant. Whether you realize it or not, change is all around you. There are changes in entertainment preferences, changes in technology, changes in social dynamics, changes in medicine and science, and changes that naturally occur through maturing. Wealthy people are observant, cognizant and aware of what is happening around them. They may be focused on changes in the business environment (highly recommended) or changes that can make their lives happier but they are keeping their antennae’s up for things that will be different tomorrow than they were yesterday.
- Welcome the change for the opportunities it creates. You may think that if nothing changed, life would be easier. But would it? What would create new business opportunities if things weren’t changing? Do you still want to ride a horse and buggy? Perhaps you want to take the train to California versus an airplane (or an electric car?) Maybe you still want to read a newspaper and have your milk delivered to your door each week. Capitalism is built upon a foundation of change. Some may feel that it is brutal and perhaps at times it is. But nothing moves the world forward quite like competition to do something better, quicker, stronger, or less costly. The strong survive and the weak are killed off. If you want to create wealth faster, then add more value to something or someone. Change something (and start with yourself).
- Stay youthful by participating in the change. Younger people adapt to changes faster than older folks. That’s because older folks get comfortable and set in their ways (I can’t imagine why corporate America constantly wants younger folks to employ in their workforce?) Older folks get lazy. They don’t want to change and they often don’t want the world to change. They complain of changes and complain about the “youth of society” who is creating the chaos around them. There’s nothing wrong with desiring a comfortable life. Consistency is often comfortable (especially when you find something or a lifestyle that you really enjoy). But you can stay more youthful and connected to the world if you participate in the changes that are happening all around you. Change your skills, change your knowledge, and change your underwear. But don’t become an old-fuddy-duddy before it’s really time.
Wealth builders get excited about change when they have the personal confidence to adapt to those changes and take advantage of those changes. Those at the bottom of the food chain don’t like changes (unless it is getting a higher paycheck for the same work output as yesterday).
Your ability to change and adapt will have a tremendous impact on your ability to grow your wealth. Fear of change is ok so long as you don’t allow that fear to overcome your ability to embrace the change.
Good habits lead to good behaviors. Good behaviors lead to good decisions. Good decisions lead to a good life. Live by principles and choose wisely.