A few simple rules for life. Let’s take them one at a time:
No whining.
Over the past year, I’ve had to contend with a few adult whiners. I don’t think there’s anything more difficult than to listen to immature adults whine. Seriously. Whining is self-destructive, demoralizing and incredibly childish.
Now, I’ve done my share of whining over the years, but trust me: after seeing whining in action, from the outside, I am never going to whine again.
Be happy.
I do think this is a choice. It’s true that some people are luckier than others and some have more challenges, but whatever our circumstance, we can choose to find those moments of happiness that make life so wonderful.
Do your own thing.
It’s not always popular or accepted, but we can only be who we are. I’ve never been much of a follower, and while it’s made some parts of my life more complicated, it’s also given me happiness and joy beyond compare.
Enjoy life.
This relates to be happy, doesn’t it? Whether it’s enjoying spring blooms on a tree, a crashing ocean or just a day of solitude, life is full of enjoyment just waiting to be had.
Dream big.
If you can dream it, you can do it. But sometimes, dreaming’s enough. Reach for the stars if you like, but if not, have a rich dream life. It’ll get you further than you can even imagine.
“I learned this, at least, by my experiment; that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.” (Walden, “Conclusion”)
I also have a low tolerance for whiners. However, we all need to whine sometimes… When I catch myself doing this, I stop, take a deep breath, and assess: Can I let this go? Or does the sentiment need expression before I can move past it? If the latter, I ask the person I’m talking to: Permission to whine a bit here? And I always get it, graciously given. I find that most people can tolerate a little whining if it’s done consciously and thoughtfully. Then I can shake it off and move on.
I get that about whiners. When you little to no choice but to endure a few for what ever reason, it is a real pain in the you know what. I agree that being happy is a choice. Part of that comes from being content with where you are and what you have. 🙂
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Appreciate! Learn to appreciate every thing in life…especially the smallest stuff. Experiences especially!
That’s the truth. 😉
“I learned this, at least, by my experiment; that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.” (Walden, “Conclusion”)
I also have a low tolerance for whiners. However, we all need to whine sometimes… When I catch myself doing this, I stop, take a deep breath, and assess: Can I let this go? Or does the sentiment need expression before I can move past it? If the latter, I ask the person I’m talking to: Permission to whine a bit here? And I always get it, graciously given. I find that most people can tolerate a little whining if it’s done consciously and thoughtfully. Then I can shake it off and move on.
I get that about whiners. When you little to no choice but to endure a few for what ever reason, it is a real pain in the you know what. I agree that being happy is a choice. Part of that comes from being content with where you are and what you have. 🙂
If it’s gonna be funny later, laugh now.
This is wonderful! I especially love the last one! Lately I have been kind of whiny, so it is good to know I am loved anyway!! :p
Great post!
May I print out the first one and paste on my fridge?
Mwah.
Ha! yep!
I agree! And I do believe happiness is a choice.