Have you ever noticed how often we spend our time majoring on the minors while minoring on the majors? We get so caught up in things that really don’t matter that we overlook the things that matter most. We judge people by how they dress, what they drive, or where they live instead of looking at their character and how they treat others. We spend time worrying about what people think of us rather than focusing on the people and relationships that really matter. Sometimes we become so focused on the little things in life that we completely miss the big picture.

Parents can become so focused on a child’s grades, athletic performance, or keeping their room clean that they overlook the importance of teaching kindness, honesty, and good character. In business, we can become so consumed with winning a small argument or proving a point that we damage a relationship that took years to build. The truth is, we sometimes win the battle but lose the war. Imagine taking your car to a repair shop and becoming so concerned about a small scratch on the door that you completely overlook the fact that your tires are bald and your brakes are worn out. You spend your money fixing the scratch so the car looks better, while ignoring the very things that could save your life. Don’t become so focused on the scratches in life that you overlook the things that can truly make a difference.

Life is too short to spend it majoring on the minors. At the end of our lives, I doubt we will wish we had won more arguments, made a little more money, or convinced everyone we were right. But we may wish we had spent more time with family, shown more kindness, helped more people, and enjoyed the journey a little more. The next time something gets under your skin, ask yourself one simple question: Will this really matter five years from now? If the answer is no, perhaps it doesn’t deserve so much of your attention today. Don’t become so consumed with the little things in life that you miss the things that make life worth living. KT