I was really moved by my friend Matt Cook’s post last week titled Three Labels. I’m going to reproduce parts of it here and hope he doesn’t sue me.

Think about what you are going to do today. Get at least six things. I’m pretty sure you can break them down and organize them into three labels:
- Things you need to do. This is your basic, I-do-this-so-I-can-eat stuff. Your bread and butter. Your 9-5. This is what puts food on the plate and money in your landlord’s pocket.
- Things you ought to do. These are things that are good, in and of themselves. Hanging out with family. Talking with neighbors. Volunteering. Telling people about Jesus. Working out. Good stuff.
- Things you want to do. That which is fun. Hobbies, games, travels, etc.
On how many tasks can you put more than one label?

What if we pulled the three lists together? What if you could put all three labels on one task? Or on most of your tasks?
Happy.
That’s the dream, I think. To support yourself and your family while doing what is right and fun.

I know I’ve mentioned it before, but I’m increasingly finding myself in situations where, as Matt says, I’m putting all three labels on some of my tasks. I’m blessed. It’s a good little exercise. I recommend it.