So What Do You Do?

What do you do?

This is a common question often used when we meet someone for the first time. You've probably asked it almost without thinking about it.

Generally, when we ask this question, we're anticipating details about the work they do on a daily basis.

But the fact is, you do way more than just work, right? I mean, you do all kinds of things. Your life is busy and some days, feels out of control at times too. If I looked at your calendar, I would probably see a whole of of activity and little white space, am I right?

So you do a lot of things.

But have you ever asked yourself this question...

Q. Why do you do the things you do?

Yes, we all have lots to do. responsibilities that need our attention and focus. From work to family, to errands, chores, community groups, and hobbies.

The fact is, in this day and age, we have so many options to choose from, that we are never at a loss of things to do. But again, I ask you and myself this question.

Q. Why do we do the things we do?

I think this is a good question, because it's easy to get so busy being busy, that we lose sight of what matters most to us. And when we do things without thinking about why we do them, frustration, complacency, inconsistency and unfulfillment can set in.

To put it another way, "If we don't know why we do what we do, how can we know if we are doing the things we should be doing?"

If you're unhappy, unfulfilled, restless and never content, then perhaps you're busy at being busy, but unclear as to why you're doing what you're doing, or if you're doing what you should be doing.

What do you value?

When our children were young, we decided to create what we called our "Family Values". We identified five...

• Love God
• Family First
• Work Hard
• Be Kind
• Tell the Truth

We wrote these down, added some descriptions to them as they applied to us as a family, then created a plaque which was on display so we could see it easily. Our kids are grown with kids of their own, but if you visit our home, you will see it as you enter our front hall.

I'm convinced that in order for us to live with meaning and purpose, we must identify our core values. They guide our decisions, they help form our identity and even correct us when we go off the rails.

Core values are foundational beliefs that anchor our lives, the things that matter the most to us, the non-negotiable characteristics that describe who we are.

So what are your core values? Can you come up with five? I think that's a good place to start.

A few of mine include...

• Family first: do what I can to support my wife, children and grandchildren
• Pursue health: embrace a healthy lifestyle that includes, nutrition, exercise and sleep.
• Stewardship: I am responsible for all God has given me including my money, possessions, and time.

I have a few more but you get the idea, right?

Here's a challenge for you. Take some time to think about and identify 3-5 core values that define you, or you hope will define you. Then compare this with all you do now, in a typical day, week or month.

What are you doing that is consistent with your values? What are you doing that is inconsistent with your core values? What changes do you need to make and how will these changes impact your life?

When you know what your values are, making decisions becomes easier.

How I can help!

1. Read my latest book, "Vantage Point: Five Perspectives for Living a Better Story"
2. Download a free chapter of "Vantage Point" right away. Click here
3. Book a free 30- minute call with me. Let's talk!