Contentment Week 1

“Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never, ever have enough.”
― Oprah Winfrey

According to the Oxford dictionary, contentment is a state of happiness and satisfaction. Oprah’s quote then reminds us to recognize what we already have, instead of longing for more. Recently, my business partner and I facilitated a workshop for adults on our book, The Elevation Principles. Participants were given a small journal and asked to write down something in their personal life that is going well. We asked for volunteers to share what they wrote. It always reminds me of teaching graduate school, because everyone usually makes no eye contact with me. Except that night one gentleman in the back of the room raised his hand and was eager to participate. He stated very simply, “I love my job”, with a huge, genuine smile. You could feel his happiness and appreciation for his position. He worked construction and said everyday he gets to do a variety of different tasks.

This man was an inspiration to both of us. On the way home we reflected on his participation, because he was so content and we do not often observe that level of joy in participants. He truly epitomized Oprah’s quote of concentrating on what you have.

This week take a few minutes each day to consider what you already have and write it down.  Add finding contentment to your day.