I love the parable about the fisherman and the banker.
It has lots of lessons which apply to all of us…
And it always gets me thinking.
The story goes something like this…
A hotshot banker is taking his annual holiday on a remote desert island.
One day he comes across a fisherman chilling by the sea.
The fisherman is sipping a beer and his fishing line is cast in the water.
To the banker’s surprise, all around are crates of freshly caught fish.
There’s no-one else in sight...
It looks like the fisherman has found a prime fishing spot…
And he has it all to himself.
The banker’s mind starts racing. He realises this is a great business opportunity...
He could lend the fisherman money to buy a boat, more rods and take on staff.
The daily catch could be incredible...
It might require a few years of hard work. Training more fisherman. Setting up an office and building up the business…
But down the line the fisherman could make a fortune.
The banker approaches the fisherman…
Talks through his idea...
And finishes by saying:
“In 10 or 20 years you could be rich beyond your wildest dreams. What would you do then?”
Guess how the fisherman replies…
“I’d sit on an island with a beer in my hand and fish all day”.
So…
What does this story mean for you?
I think there are a few takeaways.
First, make sure you have your reason Why in mind.
In other words…
What are you trying to optimise your life for?
Freedom…
Security…
Recognition…
Adventure…
Contribution…
(I list 100 possibilities in my book)
It’s important to know…
Because if your daily actions don’t move you towards this...
You’re never going to live the life you want.
Second, the little things in life can be worth just as much as the big things.
In fact, they can be worth more.
We often think that bigger, faster or costlier means better...
But this isn’t always the case.
Third, don't forget what you have already.
It could be more than enough…
And you don't always need to chase for more.
These are just three ideas…
But I’m sure there’s others.
What does this little story mean for you? What are your takeaways?
Hit reply and let me know. I’d love to get some more perspectives.
With that being said…
The weather is so good right now, I’m going to go for a walk.
And chill in the sun.
Have a great day.
- Tom
p.s. If you’re ready to get greater clarity on your situation, why not book a short call with me to see how I can help? The link is here.