Finding Alternatives: Lessons from a Homeless Man with a Lighter

One morning on my way to work, I saw a homeless man shaving his beard—not with a razor, but with a lighter. It was an unusual sight, but what struck me even more was how clean he looked. Seeing him redefine the stereotype of homelessness reminded me of a powerful lesson: resourcefulness is not just about having everything; it’s about making the most of what’s available.

Here are the insights I took away from that moment—and how we can all apply them to our lives.

1. When One Resource Isn’t Available, Find an Alternative

The man probably couldn’t afford a razor or shaving cream, but he didn’t let that stop him. Instead, he used a lighter to meet his need, which was a stark reminder that even when resources seem scarce, there’s often another way. This principle applies to so many areas of life.

If you can’t afford paid courses to build your skills, for example, try free alternatives. Platforms like Udemy, YouTube, and countless others offer quality resources to get you started. The key isn’t about what you don’t have; it’s about using what you do.

2. If You Can’t Give Big, Start Small

So many of us want to give back in a big way, but sometimes we hold back, feeling like we don’t have

enough to make a difference. But giving isn’t about size; it’s about intent. Start small, with whatever you have. Maybe it’s your time, a small donation, or a skill you can share. Over time, these little actions build up and create a big impact.

3. Take the First Step Toward Your Dream

Dreams can feel out of reach, especially when we envision the end goal. But just like any journey, achieving a big dream starts with small steps. If your goal is to become president, start by leading in your community. If you want to be a successful entrepreneur, begin by managing a project on a small scale. Every action, no matter how small, brings you closer to the bigger picture.

Don’t Let Limited Resources Hold You Back!

Seeing that man with the lighter reminded me that obstacles are often only as big as we make them. If we shift our perspective, we can find ways to move forward, even when resources are limited. Don’t let the absence of what you need keep you from making progress. Instead, look for alternatives and keep pushing toward your goals, because greatness doesn’t always require perfect circumstances—it often requires perseverance and creativity.