Lessons From a Mug and a Multi-Tool

When I graduated, my dad nailed the gift game with a sleek, engraved Leatherman multi-tool – my name and degree etched in glory. Thoughtful, practical, and just plain cool. My mom, however, grabbed a mug on the way to the ceremony. At first, it felt like a bit of a downgrade... until I read the slogan on it.

The mug featured a rat and the phrase: “It doesn’t matter where you are in the rat race, you’re still a rat.” Ouch, right? But wait – before you think my mom called me a rat, it took me 18 years to figure out the wisdom behind her choice.

And honestly, even now, I don’t always know what’s going on in life. But maybe that’s the point. Life isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about embracing the mystery and rolling with it.

Here are three truths I’ve learned from that mug (and life):

1. Accept the Reality of the Rat Race

If you’re in the rat race, let’s face it: you’re a rat. But hey, this isn’t a “feel bad about yourself” statement – it’s just the hard truth. Been there, done that. The rat race might bring fleeting moments of glory, but they don’t last. And that’s okay! The first step to change is admitting where you’re at.

2. Sometimes the Race Has a Purpose

There are times when being in the race makes sense. It might serve a purpose for you and others. If that’s where you’re at, lean in. Adapt, make it work, and get what you can out of it.

3. Know Your Goal (and Your “Why”)

Simon Sinek nailed it: you’ve got to know your “why.” Spoiler alert – money isn’t a “why”; it’s an outcome. So, ask yourself: what’s your journey really about? This isn’t an easy or quick answer. For many of us, it takes years to figure out, and even then, it can shift. I try to ask myself: Is this admirable? Is it giving? Is it serving or helping others? If the answer is “no,” it might be time to change direction.

So, if you’re feeling stuck in the rat race, know that there are ways out. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it. And if this resonates with you, drop me a message. Let’s chat – no mugs required. 😉