In the past year, I have dedicated much time helping thousands discover the magic formula: 

Purpose + Passion = Performance. 

It is no secret: one of the most important ingredients of living a prosperous life is knowing that what you do every day brings value to others.  When money is not the motivating factor, but the desire to serve others is first, ironically the money often follows.  Yet when we put money first and serving others second, it never seems to work out the way we expected.  This is no coincidence. 

As 2008 comes to a close and you evaluate your financial progress (or lack thereof) and as you examine your business success (or failure), honestly ask yourself these three questions:

1. In my business and personal life, where do I focus more of my time and energy: on creating value for myself or on creating value for others?

2. What are my top priorities in my life? (I.e. God, Family, Friends, Customers, etc).  Do my checkbook and calendar reflect these priorities?

3. For 2009, what are some ways that I can add more value and happiness into the lives of others, and consequently bring more into my own?

I have found in my personal life, when I chased the almighty dollar and neglected to put others first, my success was temporary and unfulfilling.  I made millions of dollars yet had no satisfaction.   Then a few years ago, when I truly committed to put others’ needs ahead of mine, I became blessed beyond any monetary reward.   God works that way!  He chooses to bless us in many ways.  Though we may or may not lack financial resources, in Christ, we are rich beyond this world.   What can you do in 2009 to bless those God places in your life?  Think long and hard.  Step out of your comfort zone and get ready to prosper in 2009.  Less self and more help and you will be blessed beyond belief!

 

“It is one of the most beautiful compensations of life, that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself.”
~Ralph Waldo Emerson