A successful life—however we define it—is something most people want. We want to feel good about our accomplishments. We want to be able to provide both the necessities and the comforts of life for ourselves and our loved ones. We want to feel we are contributing in a meaningful way, that we a making a difference, even if but a small one.
Author and speaker Chris Brogan often speaks about his “monchu”. He says, “The word “Monchu” is an Okinawan word that means “one family” or sometimes “extended family” or sometimes “the family we choose.” What the definition tends to mean from all who talk about it is this: people you like and care about as much as you are supposed to care about your flesh and blood family. We use it to mean something much more valuable than a network connection and yet clearly not our uncle or aunt.”
We build a successful life by serving our Monchu and expanding our circle of influence. To achieve this, Brogan suggest we ask ourselves three simple questions each day.
1. What did I do for others today? Who did I help or serve? Who’s load did I make just a tiny bit lighter today? The slogan of the Boys Scouts is “Do a good turn daily.” Do one nice thing—it doesn’t need to be big—for someone else every day.
2. What did I do for my business/career today? We live in a material world and sometimes we need to be a material girl. Not in a greed-is-good Gordon Gekko sort of way, but we do need to earn so as to be able to provide and give. Read something every day to expand your mind. Do something every day to improve your skills, service, or product.
3. What did I do for myself today? Your body, spirit, and mind are your instrument. Keep it well tuned. Self-care is not selfish. When we take care of ourselves, we have the capacity to take care of others.
Ask yourself these three questions every night before going to bed and review how you did that day. Then, identify who and how you can serve tomorrow and plan your activities accordingly. Do this every day and before long you will be amazed at how happy, successful, and meaningful your life has become.
