I have been doing this job a long time…yet I still love it.
Our planning approach and the impact we make here at Blue Sky ticks a number of boxes for me but clearly, it is important that work doesn’t define me. As always, it’s a balance. Most of us tend to be more fulfilled when we achieve a balance, and when we are skewed too much in one direction it can become uncomfortable. Working too hard at the expense of family life being just one example.
I met someone only this week who I had to admire. He and his wife have worked very hard, pulled together, supported each other and have created a fantastic local brand here on the Dorset Coast. From starting the business to now, there has been a focus on survival, innovation and establishing a business which reflects their values and beliefs. The next phase of their lives is not only about continuing to build their brand and assets, but having more choice outside of business to live the life they want.
They got me thinking about our human needs and what makes us happy. This is very personal to each of us but there are, I believe, 10 most important human needs based on my dealings with clients over the years:
- Security… knowing that financially you will be okay no matter what happens
- Confidence… being able to press ahead with your life with a strong degree of positivity
- Choice… not feeling trapped or on the treadmill of life; the ability to choose brings a sense of freedom
- Faith… for some it is religion and for others it may be a strong belief in a moral code
- Legacy… having a pride in what you have created and/or what you stand for
- Making a difference… in whatever you are doing, helping others, not being introspective
- Sense of belonging/love… We need a strong feeling of connection and to feel loved by family and friends
- Stimulus… Something to get excited about; hobbies and experiences being a prime example
- Influencing… being able to influence matters in a positive way brings empowerment
- Variety… this is so important; “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” as the saying goes
Maybe you can think of something I’ve overlooked and if so, please e-mail me.
The challenge for us all must be to create a balance but then not rest on our laurels. We should always be re-evaluating what’s important and how we feel. Life is an active journey, not a passive one. The world at large certainly isn’t passive and periodically, it can have an adverse effect on our behaviours.
So, how are you progressing? Having a plan which pulls together all these factors, which removes anxiety, explores possibilities and allows you to be excited about the future has to be the way forward.
It’s simply a case of priorities.
That reminds me… I must phone my Mum!
