I remember being young, at quite an impressionable age, yet old enough to understand an important life lesson.
My grandfather had taken over 30 relatives out to dinner. He had invited the aunts, uncles, cousins to attend. It wasn’t just any dinner; there were ten courses where the food was deliciously abundant.
My grandfather was in his element and felt so much pride in hosting this fantastic dinner. He had immigrated to the United States by boat as a toddler. He was now a very successful entrepreneur who traveled the world and lived in a penthouse overlooking Lake Michigan in Chicago.
I asked him why this dinner was so important to him.
His response, which I will never forget, was, “Kate, it’s essential to understand how and where to spend your money. Family is first. Then education, and lastly, experiences.
You see, family is everything in the Jewish religion and culture (as in many others). Education is the key to success. And experiences are for personal growth. These were the values he wanted to instill in me to live by.
You’ll note that he said nothing about driving expensive cars or owning expensive handbags or jewelry. These items are okay; they’re just not in the top three of living a fulfilling life.
Too many people place their value on what they own.
They believe they have more status based on their possessions.
They confuse their identity with their possessions.
Conversely, they lose confidence if they don’t view their possessions as high enough on the scale compared to others.
My grandfather wanted me to understand money and be intentional with its use.
Remember, you are not your “things.
“Your “things” don’t define or give you more value.
Who you are as a human being is what matters most.
You are enough – just as you are!
Be Brilliant,
International Speaker | Best-Selling Author |
Breakthrough Success Expert | Leading Mindset Expert | Award-Winning Strategist | Coaching for Professional/Personal Development
P.S. To hire Kate for professional workshops for your company or organization – or for personalized help through private coaching, please contact her team for more information.
