“I’ve Got Enough” …

Jack Bogle is the legendary pioneer and founder of Vanguard… one of the largest asset gathers in the world. One morning he was walking with a friend on a beach in Southampton… “Hey, Jack., look at that multimillion dollar mansion up there. How does it make you feel that the guy in that home makes more money in a day than you make in a year? Jack replies with a smile, “My friend, I’ve got something that guy will never have” “Oh, what’s that? Jack looked him in the eye, “My friend… I’ve got Enough…. I’ve got Enough.

“My company of 20yrs let me go in 1997. My family was in free fall. No job at age 51, not particularly attractive to companies in a tough industry suited, designed more for the young “bucks.” We sold our large home on a hill. Moved to a smaller one. Took the money from the downsizing and started a consulting, coaching practice. We gave up some status, some space, some of my dignity, respect from peers too. A lot of fear. The whispers around town, “Gee, too bad about Bob getting fired”  Ouch.We had hosted receptions on the hill for local alumni from my college, a charity event or two. “Gee, Bob is so successful.” Chest out… ego ablaze. I was simply a “big man on campus.” But not so, not now.

At least that’s what I was saying… when I talked to myself.But wait… we came upon a curious discovery. A lot less income. Not near the money money saved to retire.  Starting over at age 51. Ugh! But guess what… Nancy and I actually found this. Our life style under the higher money profile? Without the perceptions of status, financial flourish? Quality! Life was more enjoyable, easier to manage, better focused on the important things.

Like Mr. Bogle… we realized we actually had … Enough. We actually have Enough. To pay our bills (with some painful adjustments), find new pleasures less drawing on the status, the money. Hmm… how ’bout that. Today? “We have Enough.””Ok, Bob. One off your constant refrains… “You can get through a day without sex, but you can’t get through a day without a rationalization”  I”ll grant you that.

But…The Bottom Line: The myth about money? It’s real. The mantra from so many? “It’s not about the money.” But for so many, c’mon, it really is. It’s never Enough? “Follow…”

Ok, Bob. One off your constant refrains… “You can get through a day without sex, but you can’t get through a day without a rationalization”  

I”ll grant you that. But…The Bottom Line: The myth about money? It’s real. The mantra from so many? “It’s not about the money.” But for so many, c’mon, it really is. It’s never Enough? “Follow the money.” We hear this today about our Presidential candidates, the Goldman Sachs guys. Follow the money… so many do. Right? Ask yourself the question… go ahead. “Do I, when might I, when will I have… Enough?”