One of the reasons I love investing is that so many of the frameworks that lead to success are also helpful for leading a life of purpose.
No one is better at making that connection than David Gardner. In his most recent Rule Breaker Investing podcast, he gives his listeners food for thought with 5 quotes about "Things that Matter."
Here's a quick summary:
1. "If you are lost, the answer is education. If you are educated, the answer is action. If you are acting, the answer is consistency." -Dan Koe
Find the best teachers and learn.
Now take what you learned and put it into practice.
Consistently repeat your actions and watch them compound.
2. "If it's not a hell yeah, it's a hell no." -Derek Sivers
Every choice matters and has the potential to impact our lives profoundly. Life is short. Putting decisions through this filter helps you make the most out of your time.
3. "Celebrate the suboptimal because therein lies your growth." - David Gardner
We have a choice to make when we encounter the suboptimal. Instead of feeling embarrassment or shame, we recognize things aren't as they should be and celebrate the opportunity for growth.
4. "Don't give them what you think they want. Give them what they never thought was possible." Orson Wells
This attitude is responsible for the most powerful products, services, cures, etc., ever created. It takes a unique mindset and attitude to be able to see the world through this lens. It reminds me of the rowboat syndrome. Most of us spend our time looking backward instead of seeing the countless possibilities in front of us.
5. "Our greatest fear should not be of failure, but of succeeding at something that doesn't really matter." D.L. Moody
"Make what you do matter more and more to more and more people." -David Gardner
Strive to do things that matter and that contribute towards a greater purpose. This quote hit me the hardest. Can I look back at the last year and say my actions contributed to something that matters? Asking this question forces you to ask another important question. What matters?