For me, I call this idea of thinking bigger "living consciously." It's recognizing that all of your actions have consequences. And just like your parents told you, you get to chose the actions, but not the consequences.
I like what you said about not getting comfortable. What works in one circumstance may not in the next. What works one day may not the next. It's not just about investing, it's about everything in your life. You have to be always evaluating, choosing your actions and watching the consequences to make even better choices next time.