Rob Base was wrong. It does not take two to make a thing go right. It only takes one.
What the heck am I talking about? In order to clear that up, I’ll have to start with a personal philosophy that I have:
“Changing the entirely too daunting. So I aim to impact one person. Because if I’ve impacted one person, I’ve done my job.”
To illustrate my philosophy, let’s talk about my cat. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been concerned for homeless animals. It makes me sad that they have no shelter, no regular food source, no love and a lot of times, no name. So when my homeowner’s associate send around a newsletter urging people to use their trash can lids because “We’ve noticed some stray cats in the neighborhood and we don’t want them”, my internal middle finger was lifted and I decided to do something about it. Like feeding the feral cat that’s been living in the neighborhood for the last 2 years.
Not only did I start feeding this cat daily, I built her a shelter and arranged to have her neutered; no more feral cats were going to be conceived on my watch! As time’s gone by, this cat–Boots–has become our pet. The neighborhood knows she belongs to us. Boots responds to her name. She doesn’t really leave the vicinity of our house because she knows that its her home, too. My daughter adores her and cries every night because Boots isn’t allowed to sleep in our house. And although she still won’t let us pet her (she’s been feral for about 3 years), she has to make sure that we are within her sight whenever we are outside. She is now our cat. She has been given a foundation. Even though I can’t help all of them, I have made a difference for this one cat.
That’s what I’m trying to do with this blog. My financial stories and advice may not be useful for everyone (though I do hope that everyone finds them entertaining) but if I can impact one person, then I’ve made an impact. If one person finds a foundation from my story, then I’ve reached my goal. Am I a financial expert? Hell, no! But I hope I’ve made enough mistakes and course corrected enough that someone else can relate to my story and course correct herself (or himself). Because if one can inspire one who can inspire another one, well, there’s no stopping us.
Oh, and the cat? Here she is:
Great post. I feel the same way.
I didn't start my blog thinking anyone would read it, it was really a personal outlet for me, but if anyone feels the way about my blog that I do for some others, then it is worth it.
Thanks, Niki. I do this as an outlet, because it's fun and because I like writing. The value is even greater if others, even just one person, likes it.
My heart aches for stray animals too. I wish I could foster all the unwanted dogs, although my hubby doesn't have the same desire to do this. We have one and he says that's enough!!
Love your blog, your on my daily check in list of blogs to read!!
I agree. I started my blog with the goal that even if one person finds it useful I would have achieved what I set out to achieve. But I became distracted with different things along the way. I am hoping to change it and focus on what I really want.
To be honest I started my blog from day one to make it a living one day, I don't have a set time frame, I am open to any time, let it take its own course, only focusing on fundamentals for now.
I have a similar outlook on things, Jana. When I was at my wits' end and at the brink of financial disaster I didn't think there was any way out. I didn't have any hope. But there are lots of resources (blogs, people, products) out there that can guide people on how to get out of debt, and offer support at the same time.
I want to pay it forward, and help spread the word that there is hope for those that think they are too far gone financially.
Keep doin' what you're doin', Jana. People need the kind of information and support you provide here.
@Paula–Thanks!
@Suba–It is easy to lose focus. That's why I like other blogs. They help me to refocus.
@SB–It's good that yo're honest with yourself and others.
@Travis–That's kind of my philosophy, too.