I’ve got a number of mantras that I use for myself (and my children, if they’d listen to me). Maybe you have some of these too:
1. Life’s not easy and that’s ok: I go along, thinking all’s well and then I’m hit with something that reminds me that life’s not easy (at my advanced age, even waking up in the morning takes work!). The most difficult challenges are often the most rewarding and satisfying … it’s ok when it’s not easy.
2. Follow your inner voice: Too often we ignore our inner voice. We usually think we are smarter and really “know” the right direction or choice. I tell my kids that if they follow that voice, they will live a life that makes them proud – one that matters and makes a difference.
3. Ask for help when you need it: “Successful” individuals will tell you that the key to success is knowing your strengths and weaknesses. Learn how to delegate, ask for help and let others know how they are part of the plan.
4. Let go: Letting go doesn’t mean giving up, but rather accepting that there are things in life that can’t be controlled. Sometimes letting go is what makes us stronger and happier. I am terrible at this one!
5. Make time for those who matter, including yourself: We all know the saying that we don’t realize what we have until it’s gone. Don’t take for granted to importance of saying “I’m sorry, I was wrong.” Don’t let the ones closest to you be hurt by you. You’ll never know how much they really mean to you until they are gone.
6. Don’t push too hard without pausing: We miss a lot of happiness because we don’t stop long enough to see it. Or, we’re focused on what we think we want that we miss most of what we need. Yup, me again.
7. Focus on your “problems” not someone elses: It’s the old saying … if everyone threw their problems in a pile for you to see, you’d grab yours back. Own your own problems and take care of them … we’ve all got them.
8. Be thankful for the past, no matter how difficult: Everything we’ve been through has been preparation for where we are now and where we are going. It’s as simple as that.
9. No one is perfect: There is no perfect partner. Easy to say now but hard to admit when you are in a fight with your partner over one of his/her imperfections!
10. I am human: I make mistakes. I stumble and fall. I hurt others and I hurt myself. I can stand up, make amends, try again and keep learning and growing. That, my friends, is the priceless opportunity called life.
Be safe today!
theyearof50 