I realized early on, after some hardship, that the best gifts in life are the ones I give to myself. My present self is always focused on being a thoughtful gift-giver to my future self.
I apply this to all things in life, big and small. If something needs to be ironed, I give my sleepy morning self a break by handling that task at night.
It's helpful to think of all actions over time within this asset/debt framework between those three separate people — past, present, and future — who constitute "you." Today's overindulgence in sweets is a debt your future self will pay. Today's exercise is an asset your future self will enjoy.
When I talk to anyone about life, business, or whatever, I'm interested in their asset/debt distribution over their lifespan, and I want everyone to be kind to their current inner self. When a person messes up, I advise them to face the debt the wrong decision brought and pay it without wallowing in inner judgment. We all mess up.
Instead, think about what assets you can now generate for your future self — and hopefully others.
My husband and I built multiple successful businesses with this asset/debt mindset. If an action looks great in the short term but will incur a steep debt later, whether financially or relationally, then no thanks; we'll pass. If there's debt now but has major payoffs later, we're in. We all think this way to some degree. But there's often a disparity between those who have the thought and those who effectively apply it.
Hiring is Hard; Here's How We Help
Our business, HireSmart Virtual Employees, is about turning this mindset toward others, not just ourselves, and helping our clients apply it. We want to help others shower their future selves with gifts.
Of course, that also means contemplating the future, and the speed of change is disorienting, right? I think of AI and how it's essentially an economic power tool. Many people search for the most effective applications for that power tool in their businesses. All eyes are on AI.
Anne Lackey's Company Offers a Unique Virtual Solution for Staffing Issues
Fewer eyes are on global hiring, but more are beginning to look because it's also a modern-era economic power tool. The Web is the great labor-market equalizer for office work. And U.S. businesses can leverage the power of the dollar to hire amazing office employees in markets with a much lower cost of living.
For instance, our clients frequently hire three qualified Filipino virtual employees for the cost of one on-site staff member. This opens up so many opportunities for their business future. I'm overjoyed with the smiles from clients who see this new reality. They are able to enjoy the gifts it brings them personally and professionally, with greater flexibility financially and with their time.
When Tom Quits, Consider a VE Team Instead
We've done this for nearly a decade and are industry leaders in helping businesses understand and effectively apply the power tool of global hiring.
If you're interested in learning more and potentially gifting your future self in the process, I'd love to chat. Click here to set up a time that suits your schedule.