Make Meaning …

So, here it is - the first entry of the Orderly Chaos blog and what do I start it off with? Hopefully something that will inspire, if not you, then at least me. I say this because throughout my life I have seen people go for their dreams, get stuck, go for their dreams and then get stuck again. I am no exception to that rollercoaster, but I hope to change that. I sometimes need inspirational reminders.

Recently a friend of mine showed me some motivational-type videos by key technology leaders and entreprenuers. The latest one was a portion of Guy Kawasaki’s (Author of Art of Start: The Time-Tested, Battle-Hardened Guide for Anyone Starting Anything) speech on what should be the right reason(s) for starting your own business and what it takes to succeed. And his #1 and first advice was to ”Make Meaning.” Basically, take your idea and do it because you want to either  improve the quality of life, right a wrong, prevent the end of something good or all of the above – NOT just because you want to make money.  The video itself was short, sweet, to the point and it made sense.

Then it hit me. While watching this video and others  similar, I couldn’t help to think that this is like the  ”Chicken Soup …” books but only for techies.   Because if you think about it,  those same words pretty much apply to life in general whether it be your job, family, friends or relationships.  We all are striving to make meaning in all those areas of our lives too, right? Some may never achieve their perfect meaning and thus never be satisfied - OR perhaps could it be that being unstatisfied in their life is how they “make meaning?” Who knows.

What I do know, at least to me, is that success in all facets of life ultimately lies within. It is usually is never an easy path, but if you stick with the matra that you have to “make meaning” with yourself first, then I truly believe you will be successful.

So with that said, go and be great. Do great things. Surround yourself with great people. And most importantly,  never lose focus of making meaning.  

~ by Cynthia on April 16, 2007.