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Every day is a transaction of sorts. We rise with the currency of time in our possession. How we utilize or spend that time varies greatly from person to person and day to day. When we make the choice to spend our time, we project the returns which may come our way –enjoyment, fun, accomplishment, or financial gain, to name a few. But do we always remember to count the cost?
I have spent a great deal of time, somewhat ironically, thinking about this very subject over the past several weeks. Last Thursday, we said our final goodbyes to my grandmother. At 91 years old, she was the matriarchal head of the family. We will remember and miss her unwavering faith, sense of humor, unmatched skills in the kitchen, and wisdom which exceeded her years.
As I thought about what made Grandma special, it occurred to me that she rarely failed to examine all of the aspects of a situation or opportunity before moving forward. She was quick and decisive because she understood herself, knew her values, and could predict returns while also counting the cost.
Grandma married my Grandpa during the throes of WWII on October 1, 1942, while both were just teenagers. Their first apartment had few redeeming qualities, other than being “cheap.” But Grandma and Grandpa knew that their short-term sacrifices would pay great dividends in the future.
When my uncle was born one year later, Grandma and Grandpa kept their resolve. Grandpa worked as many hours as he could as a machinist at the local plant while also working side jobs delivering newspapers, butchering at the slaughterhouse, and painting with his father-in-law. Meanwhile, Grandma took care of everything at home, even as their family grew. At times, she worked, too.
At times, they sacrificed a great deal to get where they were going, but family always remained their top priority. If an opportunity arose and the cost was calculated to impact family priorities, it was promptly dismissed. Grandma in particular always maintained that Sundays were a day for God and family.
Because of her foresight and unwillingness to compromise that which she valued most, Grandma was able to achieve many goals in life without sacrificing that which mattered most to her.
As for you and me? We, too, need to learn to count the cost.
Considering a new job? Count the cost.
Evaluating options for college next fall? Count the cost.
Looking to start a business/side hustle, pick up a new hobby, or buy a new car?
Count the cost.
Every decision you make will have both an instant and an ongoing impact your time, life, and of course, money. Weigh your options carefully and evaluate the outcomes to the best of your ability. Do not sacrifice anything of supreme importance to achieve lesser goals. And once you decide to act, be sure to strive to begin, continue, and finish with the end in mind.
Each circumstance and opportunity we encounter throughout life is unique. However, while circumstances around you may change, that which you value and cherish most should remain mostly consistent over time. Your values will serve as the foundation upon which you ultimately evaluate possible returns and count the cost.
Like my Grandma and Grandpa, may you count it carefully.
Financial Slacker says
January 30, 2017 at 10:20 AM“She was quick and decisive because she understood herself, knew her values, and could predict returns while also counting the cost.”
Great quote. I’ve always admired people that possess that quality.
Sounds like your grandmother was a wonderful woman who lived a full life. I’m sure you’re a better person having had the chance to know her.
Hero says
January 30, 2017 at 9:46 PMThanks, FS. I learned a lot from her.
Martin - Get FIRE'd asap says
January 30, 2017 at 8:54 PMPeople of our grandparent’s generation often have had such interesting and memorable lives compared to ours (I think). Often they have experienced things that we will most likely never experience and the lessons that they have to offer should be the template for all new generations. It’s such a shame that we lose them but the lessons they have to offer should last forever. Perhaps the world would be a better place if they did.
Hero says
January 30, 2017 at 9:47 PMAs usual, Martin, you add another layer of insight. I suppose there is a reason that Grandma’s generation is called The Greatest Generation.
Martin - Get FIRE'd asap says
January 30, 2017 at 9:57 PMI can’t agree more FSH. And that history and the lessons they can share are so fast disappearing too. Lets make the most of them while we still have them around.
Paul Andrews says
February 1, 2017 at 6:11 PMAwesome post! I feel like that generation just knew what it meant to work hard, in a way that we really don’t any more. I mean, teaching is tough, but it’s not 80 hours a week as a machinist, butcher, and painter. Also, MAJOR bonus points for using “throes” instead of “Throws”. 😉 Great post, thanks for sharing!