It’s so easy to forget where we come from.

As we’re racing down the highway of life at break-neck speed, we’re always looking ahead: the next dollar, the next sale, the next milestone.

Too often, we forget to check the rearview mirror and remember what actually got us to where we are today.

“Don’t forget where you come from,” is something we hear all the time, and for a good reason since where you’re from and what you’ve been through made you who you are today.

All of the struggles, the pain, the experiences, the good times and joyful moments molded you into the amazing person in front of the mirror right now.

And yet, we often just move on, simply forgetting the journey. We may even believe that we still need to change or erase our past in order to grow into the person we want to be.

But just as you can never un-drive miles, you should never try to un-do or minimize your past: where you’re from. That’s true personally, professionally, and, yes, financially.

All of those speedbumps, potholes, and, sometimes, flat tires along the way are not just lessons of a life well-lived but guideposts of how far we’ve come – and where we’re going next.

I was recently reminded of that while spending some much-needed time with my family. It was just us on a nice little trip (not a vacation with young kids, but a trip indeed!).

It allowed me to pause, be still, and reflect on how incredibly lucky I am to have this entire journey – not just the many miles behind me or the road ahead.

I urge you to do the same – try taking a minute today and sit still, thinking about where you’re from and the lessons that’s provided you.

I bet that will put it all in perspective, and you just may realize how fortunate you are, too!

Have a great weekend,

-J.D.