Most people make a list of things to do.
This includes me.
I’ve been making lists of things To Do for decades.
I’ve even made lists of Things I’m NOT Going to Do.
Such lists help set priorities. Otherwise you’d be lost, chasing distractions. Or worse, you’d be driven by other people’s agendas.
One day, I realized that there were 3 essential things that belonged at the top of my list of Things To Do.
They are:
Item #1: Be Happy
Sometimes we have to work at being happy.
Smile
Your inner self and your outer self are connected. So a smile outside brings a smile inside.
In addition, a smile makes you more attractive and more approachable, which helps you achieve more.
Relax
Pause for a moment to take a deep breath that goes all the way to the bottom of your lungs. Then let it out slowly.
While doing this, focus on your breath going in and going out.
Let Go
Let go of impossible problems that are beyond your control.
Imagine that you’re putting them all in a bag. Then tie the bag to a large balloon and let it go.
Smile and wave goodbye while you watch the bag float away into the clouds.
Tie Your Worries to a Balloon and Let Them Go
Item #2: Be Loving
Loving kindness always helps you feel better.
Offer Praise
Find and acknowledge good things that others are doing.
So, I try to find praise for everyone I meet. I even tell my cat that she’s a “good cat” dozens of times each day. And I tell birds, “Good bird.”
I do this because I hear what I’m saying. So I’m actually praising myself when I praise others.
After all, I’m a good cat, too.
Share Hope
Focus on what can be done. And then talk about that.
Imagine what is possible. And talk about that.
Find solutions. And talk about them.
Always find positive possibilities. And then share them with others.
Perform Favors
Do small things that help others.
Open doors for people. Let someone go ahead of you. Drive respectfully.
Every favor that you perform is actually a gift of feeling useful that you give yourself.
Western Bluebird, Juvenile (Who Is a Good Bird)
Item #3: Be Grateful
Being grateful creates a sense of abundance.
Say Thank You
Begin by thanking people for anything and everything.
Thank people for helping you, for spending time with you, and for being who they are.
Find Gratitude
Take inventory of everything that pleases you.
Write out a list so that you can add to it and refer to it later. Or keep a gratitude journal where you list good things that happen each day.
If you need a start here’s an idea to put at the top of your list: I’m alive .
Create Gratitude
Help others do good things so that you can thank them.
This by the way, is the key to extraordinary leadership. Great leaders help others exceed their expectations of what they thought was possible.
Canada Goose, Landing – Always brings a feeling of gratitude
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