Let’s be honest. When you heard about the recent $738 million Powerball – you started fantasizing how you would spend all of that money when you won (I did). Mansions, exotic travel, dining with celebrities, purchasing your own island in The Carribean . . . the possibilities are endless. Oh yes, almost forgot – we all usually add in, “I’d also give a lot of it away . . . ”

The news reported that with taxes, the lump sum payment would only be about $350 million. We could all probably still make it – however, it would require budgeting somewhere between $25-$50 million a year. I’m still confused how I hope to win it when I don’t buy the tickets???

If not the lottery, then maybe that oil lease I signed 5 years ago will finally produce “black gold” that could lead to some Beverly Hillbillies action on our land. We’ve been waiting patiently, checking the mailbox every other day. I guess it would help if they actually had some type of drilling operation going on near our home.

Maybe I just need to go ahead and give my bank account number to that Arabian Prince who keeps emailing me saying he has too much money, and all he needs is access to my account in order to share in my portion of his inheritance. I still can’t believe he is that kind and generous to offer me millions – and we haven’t even met!

Let’s face it. Winning it all initially sounds great. However, we all know the truth. Something deep inside of us thrives on hard work, perseverance, and the satisfaction of a job well done. The pride from finishing painting the interior of your home without having to hire someone. Laying down a couple of pallets of sod by yourself (or with a reluctant teenager). Working overtime to pay off that dreadful credit card or college loan. Finally getting that degree or certification you have sacrificed years to obtain. Several months ago I saw this quote by Natalia Wiechowski on LinkedIn and absolutely loved it:

“I am not lucky, not blessed, not talented. Ask my family and closest friends! When others “chilled”, I worked. When others partied, I studied. When others went on a holiday, I learned. If you want the life of your dreams, stop believing that only a small amount of “gifted” people deserve the very best in life. That is a lie to keep you unhappy, mediocre, and small. Start working relentlessly toward your targets instead. No lame excuses. Daily actions, please.” 

Wow, she doesn’t hold back any punches. Solid advice. Let me know how it goes as you pursue your targets. Author Jon Gordon (and I) firmly believe “your best days are ahead of you and not behind you!”

“Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before obscure men.”  (Proverbs 22:29)

Blessings,

Dave 🙂

P.S. Please check out the new “Learning” section at http://www.davidrische.com. It features links to articles on Teaching Strategies, Continous Improvement, and Leadership – plus other stuff that doesn’t fit into neat and tidy categories 🙂