June 24, 2013

ISIQ-0176

It’s been a while since I put one of my own quotes in. I figure that there are plenty of minds out there far bigger and brainier than my own, who have wonderful things to say that you will all enjoy each day.

But sometimes, one of my own thoughts or ideas or quotes is foremost in my mind. Like this one:

“Life is too short to do stuff you don’t enjoy.” – Israel Smith

Today’s IQ is dedicated to a dear friend of mine – Renai – who latched on to this particular quote about 6 years ago when I first met him and Kate, his wife-to-be, to discuss their wedding.

It was a justification as to why I left my blossoming IT career to become a photographer. I didn’t really put much thought into it, apart from a nice throwaway line to sum up my philosophy regarding work.

Not long after their wedding, Renai and Kate both dramatically changed their careers, and subsequently, their lives. Kate left her unsatisfying job and returned to study a Masters in Ancient History – a topic that had always been dear to her heart. And Renai changed journalism jobs, which was a stepping stone to him creating the biggest and most relevant IT news website in Australia today – www.delimiter.com.au.

So why make this today’s IQ?

Two reasons:

1) To illustrate that we will never, ever know the extent of the impact we have on the world. All of our words and actions have a ripple effect that continues to touch the lives of others, many years later. All I ask is that you be aware of your own power, and use it wisely. “With great power comes great responsibility” – Ben Parker (grandfather of Peter Parker / Spiderman).

2) To simply say that this quote is especially relevant for me right now, because it’s one of the foundations for a seminar I’m giving on Wednesday this week, titled “The Life Of Your Dreams: An alternative approach to business, life, and what really matters.” To read more, visit israelsmith.com/the-life-of-your-dreams/. It’s free, and open to everyone. If you’re in Newcastle, NSW Australia, or are in Sydney and want to catch a ride with me to attend the seminar, I’ll be leaving Coogee at 7am and I have 5 spare seats. Email me to reserve a spot.

Please stay in touch, and please enjoy your day. I’ll see you again tomorrow!

With love,
Israel. xo

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