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Sowing Success

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Human nature is very selfish and outcome-oriented. We want results that benefit us, and we want them now. Because of this, we often measure success by what we have gained and how it profits us.

What would it look like if we measured success, not by what we harvest, but by the number of seeds we planted, regardless of who reaps the reward?

For one, it’s input and action-oriented, rather than outcome-based. I don’t have complete control over the harvest, but I can control the number of seeds I plant and where I plant them. And for two, I enjoy the fruits of seeds planted by many others, so shouldn’t I be planting seeds from which others reap? And lastly, it gets us thinking beyond immediate results and looking at the enduring consequences of our actions, whether positive or negative.

By focusing on the seeds you plant rather than the crop you harvest, you shift your perspective out of the moment of off yourself. That seems like a more enjoyable way to live.

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