How do we measure our life? Darius Foroux, author and podcaster writes specifically about how we can live a life that matters. He has studied how the most successful thinkers of our time measure their lives. What we learn might just be surprising and enlightening. People who are considered successful in the eye of society often look at three factors to measure their lives. They are: Energy – Work – Relationships.

So far, we have examined Energy and Work. In this final session, we want to examine Relationships.

Measuring Relationships

Here is the great news that has been learned. The more you contribute to other people’s lives, the better your relationships will be as a result. And this final ingredient completes the circle of life.

When we measure our relationships, only stick to yourself. Avoid the biggest mistake most people make: looking at what others do for us. No keeping score!

Instead of looking at how others treat you, measure how much time and energy you put into your relationships. That’s the only thing you can control. When you make time for the people that matter to you, relationships improve. And if they do not, the relationship was probably not meant to be. We simply must move on.

The real lesson here is that we always must focus on what we can control.

Finally, the simple reminder: Our energy, our effort at work, and what we put into our relationships – these are all things we control. It’s one of the most important lessons philosophers from all over the world and from all ages continue to tell us. These are the factors that will be the measure of our life!

Two quotes that inspire:

“I can’t stress this enough. The single thing that will guarantee a happy, fulfilled, and calmer life is the quality of your human relationships, especially the people you love and who love you back.” ~ Joanna Coles

“If civilization is to survive, we must cultivate the science of human relationships – the ability of all peoples, of all kinds, to live together, in the same world of peace.” ~ Franklin D. Roosevelt

May the months of November and December be months of joyful human relationships, rich with thankfulness, gratitude and celebrations for our life of energy, work and loved ones.

References:
Darius Forous: Entrepreneur, author and podcaster. Website and Harvard articles.
Clayton M. Christensen: Harvard Business School professor, author of How Will You Measure Your Life?