We all want to create a life we can be proud of.  It’s human nature to crave significance. It’s admirable to have a positive impact on those around you. It’s natural and noble to do something wonderful with your life.

Former Bethlehem Steel chairman and CEO, Edmund F. Martin, loved his community and was active in civil affairs. He spared no expense in building the corporation’s iconic headquarters in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Martin Tower became a landmark, the tallest building in the Lehigh Valley. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was a symbol of power, money and dominance.

After Martin’s retirement, Bethlehem Steel went bankrupt. Sadly, the building was not preserved or re-purposed. It was demolished. Martin Tower was under construction the year I was born. As a person of modest means, it’s funny how I outlived it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Watch the implosion…

Buildings can crumble, as could lives. The good news is: it is possible to experience personal fulfillment and to leave a legacy that will stand tall, no matter your account balance.

Naturally, we all desire success. The difference is in how we define it. Perhaps you are growing tired of the vain attempts to accumulate wealth. You may be feeling exhausted and unsatisfied. If that is the case, you may need to redefine what a successful life would look like. Here are some helpful things to bear in mind while building (or rebuilding) your life:

Remember what is really important.

Guard yourself from a relentless pursuit of acquiring wealth. Let your career be led by a passion for more than just a big bankroll. In an uncertain world, do not loose sight of the things money cannot buy: a clear conscience, a close-knit family, a happy home. They are far more valuable than any nest egg or net worth.

Discover your purpose.

Ask yourself, “What am I building that will improve the lives of people around me?”

Choose people over possessions.

Collect friends. Enough said.

Invest in others.

You may really love your job and are livin’ the dream – That’s great! Now be generous. If you have the opportunity to work extra hours, consider donating the overtime pay to a cause that is meaningful to you. Or, you can turn down the OT and volunteer your time with an organization you care about.

Be grateful.

Don’t become obsessed with building a picture-perfect life, complete with white picket fence. Of course, a safe home in good repair is a basic need, but keep in mind: bigger is not always better. Rather, focus on cultivating your character, your integrity, your morals and your inner beauty.

Have fun!

Lighten up, and don’t take yourself too seriously. (This is something I have to consciously work on.) Fixating on the future can put an unbearable emotional weight on you, so don’t forget to enjoy moments of pure recreation. Allow for room for joy and be adventurous! Take time for rest, too!

Sometimes it’s necessary to raze an existing structure before forging something new.

There are times when eras must come to an end, and destruction is intentional. There is a grander plan. Step back, take in the entire landscape, and ask yourself what needs to go for you to achieve new spiritual heights.

“Stop collecting treasures for your own benefit on earth, where moth and rust eat them and where thieves break in and steal them. Instead, collect treasures for yourselves in heaven, where moth and rust don’t eat them and where thieves don’t break in and steal them. Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Jesus, in Matthew 6:19-21 CEB).