If there is one topic that everyone wants to know about it is definitely how you increase your income starting today. We live in a time of unprecedented wealth in today’s world. The opportunities available to us because of the internet make it easier than ever for businesses to thrive. Yet, many people are still living paycheck to paycheck. In fact, it is reported that about 78% of Americans fall into this category. An increase in income will not fix this problem completely. Budgeting wisely to control your output is just as important to your financial health. If you already live on a budget and just need to increase your income starting today, read on. I want to offer a different perspective on a common topic.
Acres of Diamonds
Some time ago, I was listening to a gentleman named, Earl Nightingale. He told a story about an African farmer who heard about other farmers who had made millions by discovering diamond mines. The farmer sold his farm and decided he wanted a share of the fortunes being made by others. He spent the rest of his years searching for diamonds but never found any. Finally, he threw himself in the river and drowned after such disappointment.
Meanwhile, the man who bought his farm was taking a walk on his land one day near the stream. A small flash of blue and red light from the bottom of the stream caught his attention. You can probably guess what it was – a diamond. It was discovered later that the farm was full of diamonds, and ultimately became one of the most productive mines on the continent of Africa.
The Lesson
You may be wondering what this has to do with raising your income. The point of the story is that the farmer already had in his possession the very thing he was looking for. He just didn’t take the time to dig in his own backyard. Could it be possible that you already have the ability to increase your income right where you are? What do the top 10% of income earners in your career field do differently than anyone else? Are there certifications available in your field that would set you apart? Is there an additional skill that you can learn today that will make you more valuable? These are all questions you should be asking yourself. They are also questions that you should answer, because one of them could be your acres of diamonds.
No Diamonds in the Field
Some people don’t have diamonds in their field. Maybe you are one of those individuals that truly doesn’t see any upside in your current industry. If you are absolutely certain, you should not sit back and let that hinder you. Remember, you have the ability to change your situation starting today. That includes your income as well. It will require that you think a bit more outside the box, however. Here are a few tips to help you get to the diamond mines.
Look Inside
You first need to look inside yourself and determine your strengths. What are you naturally skilled at? Is there something you do that other people typically acknowledge as high quality? Sometimes the best way to discover your strengths is through other people’s feedback. You should get out a piece of paper or notebook and write down your strengths. Once written, you should then circle your top 3. These are the ones you need to focus on monetizing.
“To be successful, focus on your strengths and develop them. That’s where you should pour your time, energy, and resources.”
John Maxwell
Get Creative
Once you understand your greatest strengths, it’s time to do some thinking. This is how you should think. How can I provide so much value to an organization with my strengths that they pay me (x) number of dollars to do it? Or how can I provide enough value to other people that they pay me (x) number of dollars for my services? Whether you want a raise on your current job or are looking to start a business, this is how you should think. If you bring no more value than the next person, why should you earn more money? The goal should be to improve yourself first, then you can demand the dollar amount you desire.
“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”
Albert Einstein
Your strengths may be best suited to run a business, sell a product, offer a service, or assist the elderly. It doesn’t really matter what your strengths are. I can assure you that someone has a need for them, and they are more than willing to pay for the value you can bring. If you want to increase your income starting today, figure out how to maximize your value to others by knowing and monetizing your strengths. My coaching services are also a great way for you to determine that as well.
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