I found a column the other day by Harvey Mackay. While he may not be my favorite columnist (better ones in the NYT or Economist), he does have a few interesting things to say. I liked this one and cut it out for the fridge so the kids would read it. I’m sure by this point you think I must have a fridge full of articles, sayings, etc., I don’t. I usually only have ONE up at a time. I like focus, not clutter, on my fridge and in my house (no groans from those who think I am over the top-type A obsessed with my house being picked up and clean!).
Here’s his list of things not taught in school:
1. Life isn’t fair: Isn’t that the truth?? (I do recall the principal saying this to me in middle school when he gave me in-school suspension for … well, let’s move on!)
2. Think outside the box: No question that creativity is the key to success and this should be hammered home to our children.
3. Exercise is good for you: I became a runner at 40. It changed my life. I hope my kids experience the great feeling that comes after a work out. It’s a mind-clearer!
4. Be nice to everyone: “It’s nice to be important, but more important to be nice.”
5. You do not get what you want, you get what you negotiate: Stand up for what you want and who you are. Don’t just wait for it to happen because you “want” it – make it happen.
6. Good manners never go out of style: Absolutely no explanation needed here.
7. Visualization: This is an interesting one. I know that athletes visualize a win. I visualize a judge agreeing with my argument! My kids must visualize how nice I will be after my run! See the success before it happens!
8. Practice humility: I agree that this is a lost art in the world of self promotion. This is not downplaying what you’ve already done. This means acknowledging that there are always others involved in your ideas and your success … always.
9. Encouragement is oxygen for the soul: I feel very strongly about this one. People love us for how we make them feel. If you are not making your loved ones feel good, then look at how you encourage them … it is a very powerful tool.
I need a reminder every day to pay attention to these things. I want to be more self-aware on a daily basis — even if just for a few minutes. Maybe you feel the same way. Our legacy, is not only what we do. But, what our kids will do with these lessons that they don’t teach in school.
Have a wonderful day!
theyearof50 