Order of Operations - SMOOCH

One of our daughters is currently learning the order of operations. Solving a problem using the wrong order of operations will often lead to the wrong answer.

Following the order of operations is also important when solving life’s problems. Using the wrong order of operations will often lead to frustration and loss of power. 

SMOOCH when solving life’s problems. When these six steps are followed in order, the results are deeply satisfying. When you SMOOCH, a solid foundation is also being laid for solving the problems of the world 

Solving the problems of life is more complicated than solving a math problem, but if you want to know where to focus your efforts for best results, ask yourself about the strength and health of each of these relationships. Where are most of your problems? Where are you stuck? Spend your time and attention at the most basic level causing you stress. For example: if you don’t have peace within yourself, you’re going to be ineffective in solving problems in your marriage.

Here’s the order of operations for solving life’s problems and living a life full of joy and happiness: #1 Solve the problems in your heart. #2 Build a strong and loving marriage. #3 Teach and train your children in an atmosphere of loving kindness. #4 Be a force for good as you strengthen friends and family. #5 Make your community a better place to live. #6 Live a legacy and bless all humanity. 

Self

Mate

Offspring 

Others

Community

Humanity 

Self . . . When I have a problem, my first step is to look inside and identify my part. Am I at peace, or is there some kind of inner turmoil? What is my problem? This takes work and can be challenging for those who are not in the habit of self-reflection. To work out the deep issues of our soul takes time. We have many relationships that demand our attention, but unless I am at peace with myself, there’s going to be turmoil in other relationships.  

Mate . . . Marriage can be deeply fulfilling, but creating a happy marriage takes serious work and commitment. The dream marriage is when two people can keep their love for each other burning bright while working through the challenges of life. Marriage has great potential to purge and purify you. 

Offspring . . . Teach your children to honor God. A parent’s job never ends. While caring for your children, you have an opportunity to learn to love selflessly. Children are also little mirrors reflecting you. They’ll teach you a lot. Your joy comes from watching your children grow and develop into truly remarkable people. You are the major contributor in laying a solid foundation for their life.

Others . . . Once your heart is at peace and your family is in order, you can spend more time and attention serving those outside your family. These others include friends and extended family. Fortify these people and help them in their struggles. Be a support as you lift and serve from a place of strength and peace. 

Community . . . Next, look to help those in your community. Parents with young children don't usually have a lot of extra time for community service. As you grow older and your children leave home, you have more time. Use your time, talents, wisdom, and experience to bless the lives of those in your community. Help things to go right in the area you live. 

Humanity . . . To live a life that blesses all humanity is a lifetime pursuit. Live everyday with intention. Ask what can I do to serve, lift, and bless? What unique gifts do I possess, and how can I use those gifts to benefit others? Live each day to the fullest and give life everything you have. Live a legacy.