IT'S ONLY A NUMBER

It always amazes me as to how focused individuals can be on things that might seem trivial or out of perspective to others.

Here are some ideas to consider:

1.    Age – Some think they are too young or too old.  We all enjoyed the music of Michael Jackson, the eighth child in a family of musicians.  He was only six years of age when he was a lead singer on stage and television.  On the other hand, Colonel Harland Sanders, founder of the fast-food chicken chain KFC had worked as a steam engine stoker, filling station operator and then, at aged 72 opened his first franchised restaurant.  You are not too young or too old!
2.    Size – I am 5’ tall and remember the shock when one of the Court House clerks stated “I know who you are.  I just didn’t know you were so short”.  (He had only seen my head and shoulder profile on this newspaper column).   It mattered to him, but I am used to it!  In fact, I like the fact that I can stand up in an airplane under the overhead bins without bumping my head.  I don’t like the fact though that Amazon seems to know what size I should order when I need a new bathing suit!  Short, tall, fat, thin, and size does not stop you from reaching your goals.  (But your physician will likely remind you to be at the recommended BMI for health reasons).
3.    Bank balance – I have never heard someone giving a eulogy at a funeral that includes a financial statement.  It doesn’t matter how much you owe or accumulate in your lifetime when true friends honour your memory.  Oh, I know that there might be estate disputes, but you don’t have to witness those!
4.    Address – Most of us know that 10 Downing Street is the home of the Prime Minister of Britain and 1 Sussex Drive is the home of Canada’s Prime Minister while 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is where the United States President lives.  None of us need to live in any of those places in order to be happy or successful.  In fact, I don’t want to be burdened with the upkeep of any of those buildings.  Your address needs to be a place where you can be comfortable – nothing more.
5.    Angel numbers – Many people believe that when they see certain numbers repeatedly, they are receiving spiritual messages that tell them how they are doing.  The number 555, for example, is interpreted as upcoming major life changes, growth and guidance for you while the number 123 is often seen as new beginnings and positive changes.  It’s all about belief and what you hold onto as truth.
6.    Voting numbers – Depending on the system in effect, the number of people who sign a petition or go to the polls can look significant, causing excitement or alarm but it is the final outcome that determines how things will unfold in the future.
7.    Legal numbers – Some places begin formal education at age 5 and mandate learning to age 15.  Adulthood can begin at 18 years or 19 years depending on the province.  Government retirement age is usually recognized as 65 years.  But, all of these have flexibility and observance based on geography and authoritative bodies who are in power.

The Bible says that 7 is a lucky number and I wrote seven ideas for you to consider but every single number, no matter the context, has nuances.

Do you have a favourite number?  Why?  How are numbers affecting your life and influencing your choices?  

Something to consider.

Dr. Linda Hancock, the author of “Life is An Adventure…every step of the way” and “Open for Business Success” is a Registered Psychologist who has a private practice.   Visit  www.LindaHancock.com  or email her at  office@drlindahancock.com.