If I had $30,000 or more to invest...

I find it fascinating to learn about angel investing and venture capital. I attended an event this week where the networkers seemed intensely focused. I can scarcely remember looking around to see anyone unengaged in conversation.

Then my attention was drawn to a group of individuals who had come prepared to evaluate business investment opportunities. I imagine that with $30,000 (an amount which I have heard is common) to invest at one sitting, I might be inclined to sit around more often, and see who comes my way with ideas.

Adam Smith on Industry vs. Idleness

I was pleasantly surprised to hear my 4-year old son reply, "yes, sir" after I asked him to go to bed. Which reminds me that I am such an important influence in his life. I will take this also as positive feedback.

Here is an excerpt of what I'm reading tonight:

"The proportion between capital and revenue, therefore, seems everywhere to regulate the proportion between industry and idleness. Wherever capital predominates, industry prevails: wherever revenue, idleness. Every increase or diminution of capital, therefore, naturally tends to increase or diminish the real quantity of industry, the number of productive hands, and consequently the exchangeable value of the annual produce of the land and labour of the country, the real wealth and revenue of its inhabitants."

Adam Smith, The Wealth of Nations

I was fascinated by the distinction between productive labor and unproductive labor. An earlier passage that really struck me (I have read almost half of the book) mentioned that a liberal education tends to destroy a young person's ambition. Here is where I think I was just a few years ago: 'So graduating from college does not entitle one to a high-paying job with little to no responsibilities?'

I spent some time last evening on a career-development exercise, which defines my favorite working conditions:

1) excellent communication
2) transparent financial and legal status
3) great benefits
4) positive attitudes
5) great incentives
6) clear priorities
7) great accountability structures
8) consistent & fair rules
9) relaxed focus
10) my own workspace

07-06-09 Monday

I just read a great quote: "You can never change a time habit until you are aware of what you are doing now." - Paul J. Meyer

It is so easy to become unfocused and unproductive, despite the best intentions, and despite a stellar to-do list. At least, it is easy for me. I am in the process of clarifying my intentions and aspirations.

I appreciate a reminder that it is perfectly acceptable to pause long enough to ask myself 'is this task really what I am supposed to be doing, right now?' Something to keep in mind as I begin to blog.