New Number

Numbers are often used to describe things.  How much, how many, and how long are just some of the questions that can be answered with numbers,  When someone says that they have a new number, it usually means they have changed their phone number.  However, there are other numbers that also change.  Some number changes, like your age, are out of your control.  You are going to get older each year.  Other numbers, like your weight and salary, can be modified through your efforts.  What is the impact of a new number for age, weight, and salary?  It depends on your mindset and thought process.

• Age is measured in years.  Each year is an opportunity to grow from experiences in the previous years and pursue new goals.  Some people think of birthdays as getting older.  While that is true, you also get wiser.  You are more aware of what and who to avoid.  It is also a good time to get excited about the next phase of your journey.  Each day is the birth of new ideas, possibilities, and victories.
• Weight is measured in pounds.  You own the number.  It does not own you.  Decide if you want to keep it or get a new one.  If you want a new number, it should have a purpose for you.  Athletes might gain weight to be more competitive in their fields.  Others may be advised to lose weight by doctors for health reasons.  Maintenance is important.  When you successfully change the number, make the necessary adjustments to keep it where you want it. 
• Salary is measured in dollars.  It can be earned, spent and saved.  Your salary is an important number, but it shouldn't define your self worth.  If you don't like it, find out what you need to do to change it.  Do you need to go to school or get additional training?  Will switching jobs or careers help you?  Do you need a new salary or do you need to manage your current one better?  

Leave a comment and share what number you want to change this year. 

 

Taste Test

You may go to work or school because it is required of you.  Most people have a daily routine that consists of normal tasks that are common.  There may not be a lot of individuality or preference involved for those things.  However, you probably do make some choices based on your personal tastes.  You might prefer a certain type of music, movie, or food.  What you like and dislike says a lot about you.  Do you want to change your image or strengthen your current brand?  Try some new things.  Do a taste test to see what fits you.  A taste test is not a pass or fail situation.  There is no right or wrong answer.     

It might surprise you to learn that there are often similarities between two things that appear to be very different.  For example, if you like blues music, you may also enjoy country and western music.  Both genres tend to tell stories of love, loss, and resilience.  The beats and tempos may differ, but the message is often the same.  Successful entertainers have recognized the power and value of collaboration.  It increases your exposure and multiplies your opportunities.

Do a self-assessment to evaluate your tastes in certain categories.  What is your taste in clothes, friends, significant others, books, and other interests?  Are your answers due to a comparison with alternative tastes or do you simply like what is familiar to you?  Consider that as you grow intellectually, professionally, and in life experience, your tastes may also change.  Again, there is no wrong or right answer. 

Leave a comment and share your tastes for these common items - Coke or Pepsi, Dunkin' Donuts or Krispy Kreme, iPhone or Android.