PROSPERITY - THE BUSINESS OF LIFE

These are the excerpts from the Technology Transitions Work-space session held on 11-20-16

​PROSPERITY – A condition characterized by circumstances that influence the well being of all parties involved.

​In the “business of life”, we create the conditions that perpetuate our state of existence.  Most businesses start as an inspired idea that drives the founder from imagination to formation. In like manner, whatever level we achieve in life is in direct relation to our expectations from “the business of life.” This is one of the reasons why the children of the wealthy tend to remain wealthy. They intuitively repeat the principles required to successively thrive in life. These principles support the ability to make the venture successful. Usually it is the venture itself that motivates our actions. The chase is often more thrilling than the catch. Whether it is a relationship, a family, an occupation, or anything we EXPECT out of life: our prosperity requires proper understanding, attitudes, and actions along with the desire. Our level of attainment is simply a by-product derived from our “business of life.” Any endeavor we undertake begins with a purpose. As obvious as this may be, it is probably the most important aspect to define prior to pursuing any goal. The premise we start with establishes the plan. The purpose should promote prosperity. The plan should outline and map the path to the goal.

​Prosperity differs from success. Success is a measured level of achievement based on comparative values. Prosperity is measured by the overall effect upon all parties involved. Simply put, success is a stage measured by steps, while prosperity is a shared perpetual state. Many of us were asked what we wanted to be when we grew up. Whether it was a dream or a desire we wanted to do or be something. Most kids have a goal centered on the fulfillment of reaching an objective, absent of prestige or money. It is unlikely to find the goal of personal enrichment to be the primary intention of any child. By making wealth a primary goal we corrupt the purity of our original intention and desires. Our “business of life” works because we understand how to run a business in the first place. Yes, everyone has a business. We can call it our own personal corporate kingdom. We begin developing the structure during our youth and implement it as we mature. Being truly prosperous is not necessarily money oriented. It is centered in development. Creating and/or expanding riches are the least significant aspects of prosperity. “For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and lose his own soul?” If we fail to count our blessings we lose the awareness of their affect in our lives.  There is no substitute for good spiritual, physical and mental health and there is nothing that can replace a sense of well being. The key to aspiration is some level of control. How much direct control or influence we have over our conditions and circumstances determines our true sense of contentment. Dependencies on the government, the economy, or the weather can leave us unsettled because they contain uncertainties and are subject to change. It is important that we build a platform based on "everlasting habitations," a principle illustrated in the parable of the unjust steward found in (Luke 16: 1-13). The shrewd management applied in this win – win principle is not generally understood by many. There is a lesson to be learned here. Although he had fallen short in his duties, he exercised his last bit of authority wisely. When we engage in greed and the “I win you lose” attitude, we’ll find ourselves creating a product or service that takes advantage of people. When our motive is benevolent, we will offer a product, service or condition that creates a useful advantage for all.

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​Many of us engaged in “the business of life” focus exclusively on the desire to succeed. Success speaks primarily to the fruit of an endeavor. However, prosperity differs from success. Prosperity is an all inclusive word. Any gain achieved at the expense of another is not prosperity. This thinking may produce some instant gratification, but in the long run will prove to be detrimental to the relationship associated with the provider of the product or service. When the “me” supplants the “we” and the accumulation of personal wealth takes priority over the collective well being, we lose the true meaning of prosperity. Individual greed perverts joint prosperity. Some may disagree with this conclusion. Remember, it is the lens we look through that determines the views we have. It is hard to predict the results of a pursuit. It is easier to anticipate the consequence of a motive. There may be many individual sacrifices, but there are no individual struggles. We should never walk alone. United we stand and divided we fall. Even Jesus suffered independently for the mutual benefit of the world.
It is important to reevaluate the abstract definitions and gray areas we define ourselves by. Our value in life comes through improving a condition or solving a problem. If we allow erroneous thinking to corrupt our dreams, that train of thought will pervert our goals. There is no accomplishment in life above good health. The realization of physical, mental and spiritual well-being is an attainment discerned through the” business of life.” This is the trinity and foundation of our existence. All else is secondary. To compromise any facet of our soul (essence) for other gain, will result in a diminished fulfillment. By seeking first the kingdom readily available to be inherited (Matt 6:33), the ability to prosper in health as our soul mutually prospers is fulfilled (3 John 1:2). We can guarantee any promise based on this principle and then all other things can be added afterwards. Prioritizing in business is the key. Don’t get it twisted, first things first. Satisfaction is about feeling good about the impact of our word, works and world. If our perceptions are out of order, so will our feelings and manifestations be. Too often we live life out of our memories rather than through new experiences. Never forget that the “present” is a gift. Live like we'll never see that moment again.​ As we grow in life, evolve and mature, we should gain greater insight from revelation as opposed to explanation. Explanation is given to us, whereas revelation is something we get.  Take into consideration that prayer, study and meditation is paramount for the inspiration we need going forward in the business of life.
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TEAMWORK HELPS THE DREAM WORK.