Dare to live without limits Week of 7/22/19

Paying attention to the details has its rewards

It’s the little things in life which have a cumulative effect. It’s easy to become overwhelmed when looking at the magnitude of your ultimate goal. You can also become so distracted by the big picture that you stop paying attention to small details.
Small things, whether good or bad, lead to the big things. Small things have a cumulative effect. Even though one small thing seems insignificant when examined in isolation, many small things add up. This is where we get the phrase. “The straw that broke the camel’s back.” One straw by itself is virtually weightless. But thousands of straws are very heavy.
However, in terms of negative impacts even one small thing can make a big difference. Ignoring small details can lead to major consequences. One open valve can sink a ship. A pilot who forgets to check the fuel gauge before taking off puts himself and his passengers in grave danger. One match can start a forest fire. One mistake on your resume will cost you a job interview.
Paying a bill just one day late incurs a late fee. When taking a test, one point can be the difference between getting and “A” or a “B.” A car is built with thousands of parts, but one loose gas line can start a fire. A nurse who doesn’t wash her hands between patients will spread diseases.
As you can see, ignoring one small detail leads to major consequences. You must pay attention to what you are doing and think before you act. Never ignore the small stuff. Being sloppy because you are rushing to save time is a formula for disaster.
Small positive things also make a big difference and have a positive cumulative effect. The largest brick buildings are constructed one brick at a time. A thriving business is based on pleasing one customer after another.
Your life is built one day at a time. Small actions lead to big results. Small actions either get you closer to your goals, or cause you to struggle. Positive results cannot be achieved through negative behavior. Unethical or dishonest behavior will destroy years of progress.
The big things in life are accomplished through a series of small steps. Maintaining an attitude of gratitude is a small thing which does wonders helping you maintain a positive mindset. Appreciate each small joy in life. Let go of irrelevant stuff that doesn’t matter. Start each day with energy and motivation.
Recognize and appreciate all of the blessings in your life. Savor each day. Spend time with family and friends. Enjoy a good meal. Laugh and have fun. Be thankful for your job. There isn't any good aspect of your life which is too small to be ignored.
Being kind, considerate, and respectful are small gestures which make a big difference in the quality of your life. You attract the same energy which you project. You are a magnet that attracts the same forces you radiate. A positive outlook generates lots of positive energy.
A kind word, gesture, or encouragement amplifies your positive energy. Doing something nice for another person, without any expectation of reward, is a potent small thing which does wonders for the other person, as well as yourself.
Pay attention to all of the small things that matter. Don't waste time with insignificant stuff. It doesn't matter what other people are saying, thinking, or doing. What you say, think, and do does matter. Focus on where you are headed and what you want to accomplish.

NOW AVAILABLE: "Dare to Live Without Limits," the book. Visit www.BryanGolden.com or your bookstore. Bryan is a management consultant, motivational speaker, author, and adjunct professor. E-mail Bryan at bryan@columnist.com or write him c/o this paper.  2019 Bryan Golden