44: Owning or Owned

The Project
I'm into implementing portfolio management now (chapter eight) and it’s difficult not repeating stuff in implementing program management as there is so much overlap. But I’ll just get it all down on paper and then try and differentiate a bit. Sometimes I wonder why I do it but it’s like deciding to become a project manager, it seemed like a good idea at the time. There’s probably as many reasons for becoming a project manager as there are project managers. 

Good project managers do it because they enjoy managing projects and bringing change to their organizations.  Wise project managers also want to develop the people on their project teams to make them more effective and develop themselves so they become better people. However some project managers just do it in order to get ahead and earn more money.  

The Way  
The problem with owning a lot is that the more you have the more you have to look after.  The poor man doesn’t need to lock his door; the rich man has to live in a gated enclosure surrounded by security.  The more you have, the more you have to lose.  Is that owning things or being owned by them?  The wise project manager knows that giving up things will make him truly richer.  Be still and discover your inner security.  

Reputation or oneself, which matters more?  
Wealth or happiness, which is more valuable?  
Success or failure, which is worse?  
Great attachment will lead to great waste.  
Excessive hoarding will lead to heavy loss.  
A contented man avoids disgrace.