Investments in Relationships

As 2011 has started I think each of us, including myself, should take stock in the relationships that matter. Just as you invest in a stock and hope for a nice rate of return, you can also invest in people and get a very good rate of return.

I have ascribed to this theory for years and for many reasons. I believe that the greatest commodity we have on this planet cannot be bought or sold as it is the people. I prefer to invest in people as in most cases you do get a great rate of return. I firmly believe this. All everyone wants is to be loved and feel special. By taking the time and investing in people you will get something back. It’s the whole you get what you give principle.

What do I mean by investing in people? I mean taking the time to say good morning, as a person how they are feeling, what is going on in their day. This may seem trivial, but it’s very rewarding. We all get caught up in the rat race that is our lives. Some are single parents, working hard for a living to provide for their families and some are married working to keep family harmony and put food on the table and some like me are single and running our own rat race to keep ahead. We all get lost in the minutiae of our daily lives. All I am asking is that you step out of that to make that phone call, write that letter, or even as passive as a simple post on your friend’s Facebook wall. Make that investment in your friends and family.

I am trying to do this with my own family. For me, it’s hard because my memories of childhood are not great and I’m one that never wants to go back to it. This makes seeing and being with my family regress to those days that are not happy. However, I’m working on letting go of that so I can have a nice relationship with all my family. I am trying to reach out to them in small ways by an email, a Christmas card or the like. You see, I’m taking small investment steps in my family and trust me the rewards are good. I’m a long ways away from being where I want to be with that, but I’m working at it, slowly and surely.

I have over the years worked this investment strategy because, as with anyone, we all have our hardships to deal with. I know you have yours and I have mine. I was born partially deaf and have poor eyesight. I'm doing very well with that I think!!!!! These things as well as a good upbringing helped me appreciate and invest in people. I try to remember things about people when I meet them or interact with them. It makes them feel special and again that’s all anyone wants. I always get "wow you remembered that about me?" when I see someone after a few months. It's easy for me to remember stuff like that because it makes them feel good.

Finally, it is the beginning of a brand new year so take that time to invest in your family and friends. Invest in them because you will get many rewards you never even expected. I’ve always said, you only get one chance on this merry-go-round called life, make it worth it!!

Thanks for listening!!