COMMENTS
I am happy with what I have.....because I have everything that I need! For me, "everything that I need" includes skills, persistence, creativity, openness to change, curiousity, motivation, positive attitude, etc. etc. Everything that I need is between the ears. Remember, the best things in life are not things.
Dave,
Does this not relate back to Outlook. Those who have a positive outlook and a desire to succeed will direct their "compass" to be set on a path of success. Thefore making them happy with what they have achieved, but wanted more at the same time. Although this may be an ideal thought, it is a manager's job to try to "pump up" this outlook which will help to build desire and then plan the path with their people. It is a combination of personality and direction.
Yes I'm happy with what I have. This may sound like a cliche but everyday, I am happy just knowingthat I'm stil here and the day is going to bring me something new to learn, some new challenge, some new people rto speak with and get to know. I look around and all the "things" I see are just that things I have amassed over time if they went away, I still would be here. One day I won't so I believe a great attidue, great outlook, life, family and a fun career that can keeps you smilin' and busy is a great way to be happy with what you have.
I find a lot of people who are not happy with what they have spend too much time dissatisfied and waste that time when they could be doing something about it. It is much easier to get things done whatever they may be, once you get youself in a place that you are happy with you. No one goes to a pity party but you and there are things you can do about it.
We all know that happiness is a state of mind and being in the State of Happiness is a nice place to be. Life is easier, trust me on that.
@Matt - you provided a good list of criteria for happiness!
@Jason - yes! this does relate to Outlook.
@ Ed - I trust you!
"Happiness is the continual pursuit of a worthy goal", at least that is my belief after 50 plus years on this earth. Upon reflection, true happiness comes from the journey, not the final achievement. Thus "be happy with what you have" is one way of saying be content with today, another way of looking at the "journey".
As you have so frequently stated, having goals is a critical component of a focused, successful salesperson. I would suggest we look for people with a good Outlook, but with unmet goals that require selling a bunch more stuff!
Malcolm Gladwell wrote in Outliers that three things are required for job fulfillment: autonomy, complexity, and a direct correlation between reward and effort. I have never read a better description of the sales profession!
@Mike - thanks for your contribution!