Relationships are a lot like bank accounts. Deposits increase the reservoir, while withdrawals decrease it. Every interaction, in or out, has an effect on the total. As I look at my bank statement I see that even when I think my accounts are innactive there is still a monthly fee, or on some accounts a return with interest. Daily I must log on and carefully determine how to manage each account so I don't end up in the red.
Sadly, just like bank accounts, relationships can end up in the negative. How does this happen? Every single one of us WANTS to be in the black. Every single one of us WANTS to be successful. Nobody PURPOSELY chooses to be destitute or go bankrupt.
The hardest part is watching what hangs in the balance and at the smallest level, evaluating the negatives, even if they are a nickel at a time. It is those nickels that pull the balance lower and lower. Unwatched, unchecked, unaccounted for . . . even nickels can pull an account to zero.
Watch the real deposits. See the real costs. Daily, even hourly, acknowledge the bottom line.
As any successful investor or financial planner will tell you that the greatest success or the greatest demise, happens a nickel at at time.
The wonderful thing is that even for the simplest of minds (and I definately put myself in this category) managing a nickel at a time is doable.
As I open my purse I see silver coins at the bottom that yesterday I overlooked. I haven't been paying attention. Taking a nickel from the bottom I memorize the stamped impression.
Today I will begin seeing my nickels for what they really are.
In my bank and in my relationships. A nickel at a time is doable.
