Finding Abundance in Tough Times

Times are tough. It is hard to avoid the challenges of the day whether it is your job, wallet, optimism or health that has been impacted.

Earlier in the year I was redoing my kitchen. Clearing out twenty years of accumulation was a bigger task than I expected. I was shocked at how much food I had amassed. I decided to take the challenge announcing we were “eating from the cupboard” for the next two weeks. It was truly amazing how many wonderful things we found and the new dishes created. Rather than feeling deprived or restricted it became a creative and delicious process.

I mention this because I am witnessing similar behaviors with executive and career coaching clients in my NYC office and on thetelephone nationwide. One pondered “Why shop for something to read when I have a slew of unopened books on the shelves? Another questioned “How long am I going to wait to drink those special bottles of wine? Who says great beverages have to be pair with over the top food?” Some of the gifts we gave to our Project Santa families were actually re-gifts, new items acquired in goody bags, as presents or promotions that were taking up space and not getting better with time. When the holiday season rolled around I decided to shop in my closet for a festive outfit rather than spend money and waste time in stores. As you probably guessed I was not lacking in choices. Just prior to returning to work I decided to corral my office supplies. I am ashamed to tell you how many pens and Post-it pads and other paraphernalia I found in my offices and the apartment. I’m stocked for Obama’s entire first term.

I often present the Your Team challenge to my job searching clients - create a list of at least 100 people who could in some way assist you in your job search. Many people attempt to convince me it is an impossible task yet just like the things in our lives we often do not use or appreciate the connections we have. Could you create a Team of 100 list? Could you get the number to 1000?

Most of us are fortunate to live in great abundance. Yet, during times like these it is easy to feel deprived and wanting. With a change in perspective we can actually find true wealth in the people and things we cherish. And, as a means to positive change traveling lighter, unburdened and flexible to address the things that are truly important. A way to get there is to value and use what you currently have to facilitate movement toward the future.

Your challenge – before you go online or to a store try and locate the solution within your present surroundings – in the cupboard, on the shelf, in the garage or from a friends and/orcolleagues. If you are unable to find it ask yourself "Do I need it or just want it?” That simple question is one of the best budgeting devises I know. And if the time is not right then find ways to compensate, to nurture yourself and get ready for the challenges you face.

Abundance resides inside of us. It can't be measured on a financial statement, in a closet or cupboard, only within.

Copyright 2009 Jane Cranston and ExecutiveCoachNY.com

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