Start with a New Question

by | Mar 12, 2026 | Blog | 0 comments

Transactional relationships ask, “What can I get?” But what if true contentment starts with a different question?

<>

Most people approach life wondering…. “What can I get?”

We focus much of our energy on acquiring things (new kitchen, car, clothes, etc.), hoping that each will make us feel better.

And it works… for a fleeting period of time.   

Quickly after completing the kitchen renovation, we begin planning the basement remodel. 

And so on, and so on.

I’d like to challenge us all to ask a different question.

Instead of “What can I get?”, let’s try, “What can I give?”

Instead of obsessing over the next purchase, what if we redirected some of that energy into finding someone in our local community who could use our help?

Interestingly, research shows that the good feelings we get from giving far outlast the brief upside after an acquisition.

Maybe a joy-filled life starts with a different question.

<>

CJ McClanahan

Speaker | Advisor | Recovering Overachiever

<>

Book CJ for your next meeting at https://cjmcclanahan.com/press-kit

 

cj mcclanahan logo

Unlock CJ's Coaching Series

Achiever's Compass Coaching Series is designed to bring awareness and generate some momentum in the right direction. 

You have successfully unlocked the coaching series!