What if Love Became the New Measure of “Success?”

“All you need is love.” – The Beatles
 
The hit song “All You Need is Love” was first performed by the Beatles in June of 1967 on the first ever live global television link, Our World. Its debut was watched by 400 million people in 26 countries, an unprecedented technological feat at that time.
 
To those of us who grew up in the Sixties, these words were inspiring. The song continues to be a favorite of Beatles fans to this day. Its challenge and message are timeless, asking us to look within our hearts and see if we can find something that might change the world.
 
In those days as a young Boy Scout, I was similarly challenged to develop strong character. Almost four decades later I can still recite the Scout Law. It called us to be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent. These served as guiding character qualities to me and I tried hard to live up to them. While I’ve long since forgotten how to tie a slipknot, I remain challenged to obey the Scout Law and its enduring virtues.
 
Here’s a timeless truth: It’s impossible to live a life of impact without demonstrating strong character and a large capacity to love. People may achieve great success in their careers and other areas in life, but if they lack strong intrinsic values and goodwill toward others, their legacy and reputation will have a hollow ring.
 
Can you imagine what our world would be like if our lives were defined by the virtue and love we demonstrated toward others? What if—instead of by our winning percentage, job titles, or personal wealth—we were measured in terms of units of love, kindness, generosity, compassion, and encouragement offered to others? One thing’s for certain. The world would be a far better place. And, amazingly, it wouldn’t cost us anything.
 
People I admire most demonstrate an incredible capacity to love. In addition to their inherent kindness, they have a special way of showing others that they’re worthy of being loved—especially when they’re not feeling very deserving. What an extraordinary gift to give others!
 
Fortunately, this isn’t rocket science. It simply requires a deliberate mindset (and “heartset”). It requires a commitment to use every opportunity to demonstrate strong character and show you care.  After all, isn’t that how you would like others to treat you?
 
If your life were measured by units of “love given,” how do you think you would rate? What changes could you make to improve your score and how would you live your life differently?
 
 

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Tagged as: career, work life balance, relationships, success, communication, diversity, goals, family, personal productivity