Money
- Your job should be something you genuinely enjoy and are good at. Don’t be afraid to try multiple careers in your teens and 20’s before having kids (locked in). Jobs first education second. Start with an apprenticeship before investing in expensive and time consuming education. These apprenticeships should start in high school (after school) so you have an idea of what you want to do in life when you graduate. Think about your career early.
- If you are an outside kid don’t be afraid to try an outdoor job working with your hands (e.g. construction). Ask yourself ‘do I enjoy homework and book study?’. If the answer is no and you naturally gravitate to outdoor activities then you are an outside kid. There is nothing wrong with being an indoor kid (we need people like this), but our culture tries to make everyone think that they have to be “college bound”. Be humble. Look at what Jesus did for a living (carpenter). Look at what He says about money and status in the Sermon on the Mount. Low tech businesses (e.g. a 711), manual labor, working with your hands (e.g. plumbing). Sometimes a job that is not ‘sexy’ is more rewarding and satisfying. You must enjoy and be good at what you choose to do for a living – don’t do it just for the money. Have faith in God that He will provide and make ends meet.
- Your career should be something serviced based (directly serving others). Not only is this more rewarding, but it makes the world a better place.
- Minimalism – less is more. Ignore other philosophies (e.g. ‘Bigger is better’ and ‘Better to have and not need’). Marie Kondo is a renowned thinker in the area of minimalism and decluttering and a great resource for ideas. When evaluating material possessions, she asks the question “Does this item spark joy?”. This could be coupled with the additional question “Do I need/use it?”. For example fishing equipment that you only use once every 5 years might be enjoyable to you, however you do not really use it or need it. These questions together can be used to achieve a general reduction of “stuff” in your life if you keep them in mind when evaluating existing items or new purchases. You will find that less stuff/smaller stuff in your life means less stuff that you have to pay for and maintain. It is also less stressful of a lifestyle because it is simpler. You will have more time and money left over for sharing and giving to those in need. This will allow you to lead a more enjoyable life, and one that is centered around the calling that God has for you.
Finally, here are some good songs to listen to:
Advice For The Kids 