The terms content and aspiring can appear contradictory in many respects. Contentment is the state of satisfaction and comprised of the following attributes:
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Gratitude
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Acceptance
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Peace
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Satisfaction
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Lack of envy
Aspiring is an active effort to improve, seek better, or advance. Words often associated with aspiring are the following:
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Striving
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Pursuing
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Upgrading
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Elevating
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Developing
While the two can appear contradictory, I prefer to see them as complementary.
We can be appreciative and at peace with our current circumstances (content), but still seek growth, development, and improvement. Contentment is focused on present conditions while aspiration focuses on future pursuits.
A great example of the relationship can be with the City of Ruston.
Since moving to Ruston almost five years ago, I can truly say I am content. I am thankful to live here. I appreciate the work of local leaders, and I accept the inherent strengths and limitations within Ruston. I am at peace, satisfied with many aspects of the community, and don’t suffer from envy.
With that said, there are many things I would love to see for Ruston that are foundational for thriving communities.
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Healthcare: A reliable supply of medical professionals, services, and facilities that would enable the city to be largely self-sufficient in its ability to care for residents
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Housing: Expanded developments of new home opportunities that would both provide home ownership opportunities for first-time buyers as well as attractive opportunities for those new to the community (expanded inventory would balance supply and future demand)
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Economic growth: Continued intentional focus to expand on the relationship between Ruston and La Tech to attract additional higher paying jobs to the community and expand the overall tax base and population to impact the city
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Education: Continued strategic decision making to advance the education of our young people within Lincoln Parish, control non-classroom associated costs to maximize each dollar, and to further the relationships with La Tech and Grambling as our keys to growth
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Church Coordination: Intentional cooperation, collaboration, and unity of the various churches and parachurch organizations to be a blessing to the community
Those are five pillars to any community. Those pillars provide a quality of life for those living in the community as well as attractive opportunities for those seeking a community.
While we can be content with a grateful heart, we can also aspire development and healthy growth. The two can not only coexist but also complement one another.
The principle can apply to any aspect of our life, whether personal or organizational.
In Philippians chapter four, the Apostle Paul discusses both attributes.
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4:12 “…I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation…”
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3:13 “…But one thing I do; forgetting what lies behind and striving forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal…”
A healthy balance of contentment and aspiration for better would serve us well!
Doug equips leaders to make organizations better. He has two leadership books available on all online platforms. Whether you are looking for a speaker for your next event or a leadership coach to develop people and build an authentic team, contact Doug at doug.strickel@gmail.com and learn more about PLUS.
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