They weren’t kidding when they said every dream has an equivalent cost. Just like any asset, it needs to be worked on and built up. Costs don’t equate to sole monetary value, it may also mean having to spend hours, days, weeks, months or years before a dream unfold. It requires effort, research and a whole bunch of experience.
Gone are those days when careers are on the unilateral path. The new generation has been blessed with more options, specializations, and owning an expertise. Careers are even more defined, and de-boned according to task as a focal point.
Oddly, the more it’s been identified, all the more people have been glorifying themselves as a workaholic. From 8 hours shifts, we’ve become occupied and au fait to 12-14 hours (or more) work hours mistakenly calling it as an acceptable trait called ‘passion-driven‘
Do you really think that having to spend so many hours, beyond required work hours could take us to the throne we’re trying to sit on? We’ve been victims of this perception.
Do we really need that much time on being in front of the screen, typing away our thoughts, exchanging correspondence and probably being on our stiletto or suits to gain the success we wish to achieve? Would having more money define us or our career stature?
Although I’d have to say, we all have our own perception on how we define success and investments. Lest not forget other things that matter.
Invest in YOURSELF for YOURSELF
Face it, money matters however if we live paycheck to paycheck; it may not be as sustainable as we thought it’s been. Most would say, it’s always best to build your own business, heck, if you can, your own empire but to those who still don’t have the luxury to do so – it’s time to work on that goal. pay yourself at least 3%-10% of your salary into an investment account, there are also auto-debit programs which can help you without even having to notice from your payroll.
Health is Wealth
Life is short. While you still have your youth, or at your prime, take good care of yourself. Eat clean, exercise, sleep well and give yourself time to breathe. Make time for yourself because nobody else will for you. Don’t let all the bad habits catch up and make the rest of your life filled with pain rather than spending more time with your loved ones playing at the park, chatting with your future grandkids or probably cruising the world.
It’s easier said than done but with effort, it can be done.
It’s never too late nor wrong to invest in Education
Kids typically take this gift for granted. If only I could bring back time, I would tell myself to take education more seriously and ace every test with a full understanding of each topic discussed. With the kind of diversified options we have for our career, continuing further education may also bring more good to validate your practice and interest. Having to attend to further education may also help you have a better perspective.
Pause and Breathe
When you’re all dedicated to what you do, we all tend to say YES to everything without rationalizing if it can be done within the timeline. Honor your day offs and stay away from your email, and work obligations. It’s the only day wherein your colleagues and the majority would understand. This also applies to your mini-breaks within work shifts.
Avoid getting burnt out and simplify your life. Not only will you be able to manage stressors and exhaustion, but it will also make you have a sense of time management according to tasks.
Balance
Our bosses may call us a machine but in reality, we’re only but humans who also need to recharge and get to have a time-off. Just like a computer, it needs its reboot, system upgrade and ample rest.
Going for the full-throttle can be impressive, sure, you may opt for this direction however once you reach the finish line; Don’t forget to give yourself some slack and a pat on your back for a job well done. Attend to your family, laugh and live. You deserve it.
Dreams do have a cost but each dream needs its healthy supplements. Let’s celebrate each achievement as we see the fruit of our labor and at the same time, having to know we enjoyed the process. Success should be fulfilling, satisfying and gratifying. Make that dream worth every minute and effort without neglecting our well-being.