Who You Serve
Our dreams were not meant for us alone. They are also meant to benefit others. As investor philosopher Naval Ravikant observed:
"Most of life is a search for who and what needs you the most."
Our purpose gives us a general idea of what is important to us. Our dream is something of value we bring into the world. But what does it mean to serve, and who do we serve? These are the fundamental questions we must answer.
What Does it Mean to Serve?
To serve does not mean to be ordered around by other people. It doesn't mean to live on pennies and give your wealth to the poor. It doesn't mean to ignore your own needs and constantly help others in need. Now there are some who quietly serve others out of selfless compassion. This is a sacred act of love.
The service I'm talking about is to use your talents to help a group of people you care about get what they need, want, or desire. It also means to truly care and look out for the best interests of those you serve.
Who Do You Serve?
You serve people who want what you can create. They are people you can relate to and would enjoy being around. Serving people that stress you out is not sustainable or fun. The key is to serve in a way that brings delight to you and the people you serve.
How Do You Serve?
This is the fun part. We get to use our unique talents and imagine all the ways we could help others. For example, if you dream of owning a hamburger restaurant, you start with providing hamburgers to your customers. But that is just the start. Unfortunately, that's where most businesses start and end; sell hamburgers, make a profit. That’s it. Today it's a miracle if you get a smile and a thank you. Imagine the impact you could make by deeply caring about the people you serve (because it's your passion too). It's about serving in a way that is true, delightful, and satisfying.
Finally
Nature is an ecosystem of serving. The nature of success is the same. We get to use our talents to serve others and it gives us a sense of connection and significance. You just have to find your place in the ecosystem. Use your talents and serve a group of people you care about. Help them get what they want, need, or desire. This is the nature of success.
Love everyone. Serve a specific group of people you care about.
To your success!
James Wilder
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