From this day on, learn to say “thank you”

Thank anyone who has helped you or has made your day easier.  Thank anyone who tries, whether they succeed or not.  Honest effort is worth your recognition. Show respect and acknowledge the efforts of others. Respect may or may not be returned to you in due course, but this is a task worth carrying.

Slow down and do nothing.

Take about 15 minutes each day and give yourself time to think about whatever it is you want to think about. You will be surprised at the inspiration and inner calmness that can come to you.

Complete one item on your “to do” list.

Return the overdue telephone call, clean-up your email inbox, or get an oil change for your car, or clean up the mess left behind the rush of the day. By accomplishing just one thing that has been gnawing at you, will give you a much-needed sense of relief and accomplishment.

Eat at least one good meal.

Not to sound like your mother, but you are what you eat. Eat something nourishing and healthy each day.  Resolve to eat for nutrition, and not for entertainment. 

Perform one act of random kindness.

Hold the door open for someone who is a few steps behind you,  lend a shoulder to cry on, or lift the load for someone who can’t manage this task. Kindness breeds more kindness. The concept of “paying it forward” is real and effective.  Some things in life needs the strength of more than one heart, and this is your day to do what is right.

Listen, really listen to someone.

Listen without judgments or criticism. Try to avoid any self-referencing and be fully present for wheover needs it.  Sometimes you may get lucky, and when they are allowed to vent whatever they have inside, they self adjust, and change direction because someone was there to listen.

Focus on one thing at a time.

You can’t be all things to all people, not even to yourself.

Review your goals.

If you have not put your goals in writing, do this today. There is a direct and proven correlation between people who have written, stated goals and their level of accomplishment compared to people who do not. Care to guess which group has the higher success rate with reaching their goals?

Say “no” more often.

This may sound counterproductive, but it’s all about setting realistic boundaries for you. Show honor for your personal beliefs and convictions by not compromising who you are. Save your energy for the people and tasks that are the most important to you.

Say “I love you” to the people who you truly love.

Do so with heart-felt sincerity. Love them as if this were their, and your, last day on earth. Don’t wait; tell them today because there is no day but today.