Travel teaches us a ton.
It's not about comparison.
It's about perspective.
"Comparison is the thief of joy."
-Teddy Roosevelt
In this article, psychologist Dr. Amy Silver helps us...
"Say no to comparisonitis!"
My wife and I traveled before and throughout our military careers. We still love to travel. One thing we did was chart our locations on a world map. This was a great way to share our travels with our children and what we learned along the way. In total we had the opportunity to visit 49 states and 33 countries. The perspective we gained along all our journey's was incredible.
Regardless of the country people really only want these two basic things...
- Provide for their family
- Do something meaningful
No matter what the family unit looks like, providing for their basic needs is the foundation. Without these needs being met first, all members will struggle to have the necessary safety and security to find opportunities to consider the second thing.
When basic human needs are met, the next natural step is to connect with our most meaningful contribution for the world.
"Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life."
-Mark Twain
This is one of the best things we can help others with. Connecting passions to purpose. Many people don't know what they are great at and end up staying in the "providing" aspect of life way too long. No matter the circumstance, changing our perspective can be life changing.
- People have the power to eradicate disease without medicine
- People can use their influence for massive personal, social and structural change
We know their basic purpose; to provide for their family. When we can influence them to provide through passion their lives take on a whole new meaning. This is leadership. It's everywhere if we choose to notice.
Be the example!
What do you do for 5 hours and it seems like 5 minutes? Chances are this is not only a passion area but also something that is your unique contribution to the world. If you're spending most of your time doing this you will be a great example for others. This is influence and influence is leadership.
Here at Home
There exist many challenges Cooperative Extension professionals are assisting communities to overcome. That's 30,000+ people inspiring others across the country. That's a powerful wave of good!
Overseas
America's influence can be felt in almost everywhere you travel. There's a country music bar in the most unlikely spot in Japan. There's a Star Wars movie poster hanging up in a shop in Kuwait. You can see Nike gear on the streets of Baghdad. See what example of providing through passion you can find on your next excursion.
We are all ambassadors for the ingenuity and possibilities of the dream people have for their lives. Who will you be help make it happen?
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