Where do you live? (Not physical address)

⏲️ Time + 💰 Money = ✔️ Priorities

For several years this formula has helped me as a teacher, dad, husband, and guy. Take any part of your life and figure out how much time you spend doing or thinking about doing something and add the money you spend and you will see how much of a priority it is. Prayer, time with your spouse, exercise, work, hobbies, and sports become more objective with a time and money filter.

Time and money are where we spend our presence and attention. Physically, we are located at work but our presence and attention could be on the car we test drove last night. I can be in a conversation with my kids but not paying attention and giving them my full presence.

We are actually living where we make our presence and give our attention. Good, bad, or ugly my living spaces are my priorities. The same is true for you, too.

Measuring time and money can help you be a better friend.

African culture is built around sharing time with each other. When I live in the USA I can make a call when someone is sick and wish them well. “It’s the thought that counts,” is a real deal. In Africa, I need to see someone in the hospital or at their house. I don’t have to stay long, but I need to show up.

Here is my point: You need to be present for your friend in a way he appreciates. Gifts, time, listening, road trips, phone calls…what is it your friend needs?

Where do you live with your friend? In other words, where is your presence, attention, time, and money?

When you invest in a friend you invest in a mutual future.