You Are A Numbers Person

Redefine Your Relationship with Numbers

Up until not too long ago, I believed I wasn't a "numbers person." Recently, a revelation struck me – I had been approaching numbers all wrong. In a world saturated with data and statistics, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of numerical information surrounding us. Whether it's financial data, test scores, time management, or goals related to hobbies like writing or working out, I used to think that only a select few were naturally adept with numbers.

Many of us shy away from embracing our inner "numbers person," assuming that a love for numerical data requires a profound technical background or an affinity for complex equations. Perhaps one of the most significant mistakes I made was comparing myself to those who excelled in the traditional sense with numbers and data. Fast forward to a new way of thinking. What if we approached numbers as storytellers, with the power to shape and direct data into anything we desire?

The Narrative Power of Numbers:

Much like the elements of an engaging story, numbers possess the ability to captivate our attention, introduce concepts, unravel a suspenseful plot, provide supportive details, make predictions, show direction, and offer different points of view. In reality, numbers are not mere lifeless data points – they are the characters, settings, and plot twists in the stories we are constructing.

Objective not Emotional:

One fascinating aspect of numbers is their objectivity; they are just numbers. It's we who assign them value and link emotional reactions to them. Numbers act as spotlights, illuminating areas of focus within our narrative. They can serve as conversation starters, revealing perceived problems, challenges, or opportunities that lie ahead. Similar to a skilled author highlighting a protagonist's dilemma, numbers guide us to recognize what needs attention and understanding. When faced with challenges, envision a plot twist, make changes, and remember who is in control: you are.

Determining What to Work On:

Much like an author crafts a character's development, we can use numbers to determine which aspects of our story need revision. Whether it's improving personal finances, optimizing test scores, or enhancing health and wellness, numbers provide essential details. Successful understanding comes when we focus on one area at a time, much like delving deep into a novel one chapter at a time.

Working Backward: A Writer's Approach:

Similar to authors outlining a story's conclusion and working backward to build the plot, we can adopt a similar strategy with numbers. By identifying the desired outcome, we can reverse the necessary steps, assigning values and making decisions that align with our goals. Working backward in small increments has tremendous potential. Focusing on key elements, appreciating simplicity and will gradually build comfort and ownership with numbers. 

What if, all along, you've been looking at numbers the wrong way? What if, instead of fearing them, you embraced the idea that you are a numbers person, capable of crafting the most successful story? Practicing gratitude related to numbers is a new mindset I have also been testing out. Lainie Rowell, author of Evolving With Gratitude suggests that it is possible to practice gratitude in the midst of adversity. Rowell also talks about having gratitude rituals and routines.  What if we could find true gratitude for the numbers in front of us and the result that they are about to produce? Numbers tell a story, and you are the author. We are all numbers people; some of us just haven't found our formula yet.