The devastation of New Orleans shocked the nation.  Despite tens of years of warnings and predictions; despite the experiences of 9/11 telling us that we must all be prepared to survive at least 72 hours on our own in the event of a disaster; despite an entire self-help industry preaching what “life success” is…

…thousands died while waiting for someone to rescue them.

People were caught unprepared.

It was a harsh way to drive the message home: It does no good to build upwards… if you haven’t taken care of basics.

And personal accountability for your life and building a foundation for your life is taking care of basics.  Nobody cares more about the circumstances of your life than you.  And it does not matter how much you’ve built your life up, unless you’ve insured that your basic needs are met.

See, most people just build their lives up to “see” level – build their lives only to the place that they (and everyone around them) can see.

What’s “see” level?

“See” level is when you’ve got a great giant screen television, the latest iPhone and a new car… but not a dime in emergency funds that are, by definition, out of sight. 

Strong friendships are replaced by people who are “fun” to be around… despite the fact that the friendships are fair-weather, and lack real connections beyond the partying. 

“See” level is a job that brings in enough to support your current lifestyle… but provides no nourishment for your soul… that part of you, you don’t quite “see”…

Build Above “See” Level

You’ve got to build a life above “see” level.

• Do you have 3 months worth of wages in an emergency fund?
• Do you have a “72 Hour” emergency kit packed with food, water, warmth and shelter in case of a disaster?
• Have you built up a strong and large social network to support you in trying times?  Friends provide more than entertainment – a quick loan, a place to stay, emotional support, all are priceless when you need a hand.
• Have you built a relationship with your God, or spiritual beliefs strong enough to survive a catastrophe?  Study after study has shown that those with strong spiritual beliefs fare better against disease, stress and catastrophe.
• Never mind seeing your abs, ARE YOU HEALTHY?

See… if you haven’t built a life above “see” level, your “success” is superficial; paper thin… and certainly not real success.

True Life Success is a Foundation

“Life success” means more than just moving upwards.  It means building a foundation for success, so that even if you lose it all… you’ll be in a place to step up and build again.

If you’re in a place where you still don’t have an emergency fund; still haven’t seen a doctor in years or can count the number of real friends you have on one hand, I’d encourage you that BEFORE you shoot for the million dollars, before you shoot to lose the 100 pounds, before you find your soul mate… just start with the basics.

The foundation has to come first.  Build YOURS above “see” level.

Copyright © 2005, Mark Farmer. Right to reprint automatically granted as long as accompanied by this notice and live Web link to http://LifeSuccessEngine.com