How To Have More?

"To have more, become more." - Jim Rohn

Two good friends grew up in the same neighbourhood, went to the same school and graduated with flying colours. They found jobs without much problem but realised that they would had to go separate ways. Kenneth was posted to work overseas in a multinational company, while Duncan got a software engineering position in a local startup. As excited as they were with their future, they had a hard time bidding farewell to each other.

Eight years later, Duncan spotted Kenneth sipping latte at a Starbucks cafe in Sydney airport. They were overjoyed to see each other and spent the next couple of hours catching up on old times. Duncan is now the R&D Manager in his first job. He flew to Sydney to attend an exhibition on communication technologies and source for new ideas. He is happily married, with two kids. Kenneth, meanwhile, was into his fifth job working as a technical support staff in an insurance company. He shared his stories with Duncan on his retrenchment from his first job, to his firing of his boss in the last job. His stories could almost fit into a "101 reasons for finding another job" bestseller.

While Kenneth spent the last few years blaming other people, the boss, the company, the government and the environment for his failure, Duncan used his time to beef up his skills. Knowing that he needs to stay up-to-date with technology to progress in his career, he constantly attended seminars and conferences to acquire new knowledge and network with his peers in the industry. He even took up a part-time course and is certified in key skills that are highly valued.

The answer to be more successful in life is to become more. More skillful, more knowledgeable, more caring, more jovial, more thoughtful and the list goes on. Develop a habit of always wanting to improve yourself. Smile more, be cheerful. It helps, whether you are working as a cashier or a salesman. Stand tall, do not hunch. Speak out, not mumble. It shows you have self-confidence. Spend more time on your personal development. It will help you to have more.