View from the Summit

Where I went to school this equation would not fly. Even to say less is more is crazy. I mean, come on, 4 is greater than 2 and so on. But what I do know now as a 53 year old successful businessman is more often than not less is better.

I chased all the glitz and glamour only to find an empty chest at the base of the rainbow. Each and every milestone revealed more cash and less time.

In no way do I want to minimize my desire to succeed financially because I love to make money. I just don't want money to own me.

Here's five things I have learned about managing money:

1. Spend less than you make
2. Tithe on your earnings to your local church
3. Invest for the long haul
4. Pay all your bills on time
5. Save for the rainy days, they're coming.
   

I believe you need and can benefit from both in your life. And I would encourage you to intentionally pursue both.

What’s the difference?

In a broad sense I would define a mentor as someone who walks ahead of you. Imagine a tour guide. This is someone - usually older - or at least more experienced in a specific area of life or business who can “show you a better way.”

When I was newly married, my wife and I looked for couples who could “mentor” us on how to have a great marriage.

Iron Sharpens Iron (ISI) is a Biblical reference as to how one man's influence could be a positive influence on another. As we experience life we are in dire need for trusted advisors. When we come together in small groups it allows for an honest dialogue void of condemnation.

Men need a safe environment to seek the council of the multitudes. When left to our personal desires, we might miss an opportunity of a lifetime. Men gathering on a regular basis forms relationships that soon become inseparable.

Communication is paramount to growth not only intellectually and emotionally but spiritually as well. Gathering with men of like mind and mission gives a sense of camaraderie second to none.