How You Do One Thing Is How You Do Everything—Even Shopping Carts
The Concept
It’s a simple choice: Do you return your shopping cart or leave it in the parking lot?
There’s no immediate consequence if you walk away. No one will fine you. No one will force you to push it back to the corral. And yet, returning the cart is a small but powerful reflection of how we move through life.
It turns out that something as small as a shopping cart can reveal how we handle responsibility, discipline, and even financial success. In fact, some research suggests that people who take care of the little things—like returning a shopping cart—tend to be more successful in managing their money, relationships, and personal growth.
The Hidden Truth: Stewardship & Success Are Connected
Many behavioral psychologists agree that small, seemingly insignificant habits create patterns that influence every area of our lives. This is known as the “how you do one thing is how you do everything” principle.
Financial psychologist Dr. Brad Klontz has studied money habits and found that those who practice small acts of discipline—like tidying up, tracking spending, or following through on commitments—are more likely to be financially stable and successful.
Similarly, research from the famous Marshmallow Test demonstrated that children who practiced delayed gratification were more likely to experience success later in life. The ability to make disciplined, responsible choices in small ways often translates to long-term achievement.
This applies to more than just money—it reflects how we manage relationships, career choices, and personal integrity.
Why This Matters: The Universe Rewards Good Stewardship
As we take care of the things under our stewardship, the universe (or God) entrusts us with more.
If we ignore the small responsibilities, how can we expect to be given bigger ones? If we don’t take care of our current finances, how can we expect abundance? If we don’t nurture our relationships, how can we expect deeper connections?
Each morning, when I wonder whether to make my bed or not, I remind myself:
How you do one thing is how you do everything.
I love what I’ve been given, and I’m open to receiving more.
Taking care of the little things creates space for greater opportunities.
This isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing respect for what we already have so that we’re ready for more.
My Own Journey: Applying This in My Life
I used to think small tasks didn’t matter much in the grand scheme of things. But when I started paying attention, I saw a pattern: when I treated my space, time, and responsibilities with care, other areas of my life improved.
When I made my bed, I felt more organized and focused.
When I tracked my finances, I felt more in control and confident.
When I honored my commitments—especially the ones I made to myself—I strengthened my self-trust and deepened my relationships with others.
It was never about the bed, the cart, or the bank account—it was about the energy I was bringing into my life.
Your Turn: Where Can You Show Up More Fully?
Think about where this might show up in your life:
Do you follow through on small commitments?
Are you honoring the resources and opportunities you already have?
If the universe (or God) were watching, would they see you as ready for more?
It’s not about the shopping cart. It’s about how you handle what’s already in your hands.
If this resonates with you, follow me for more insights on self-discovery, transformation, and creating a life of alignment. And if you’re ready to step into deeper stewardship and success, let’s talk. My coaching programs are designed to help you elevate every area of your life.
