"When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive - to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love." ~ Marcus Aurelius
Want to feel really good? Here's the fastest way I know of to improve your mood - praise. You may be thinking, "Sure, that sounds good, but no one is praising me!" Here's the good news: Praise elevates both the giver and receiver. That's right, handing a meaningful compliment to someone else will improve your day. Make a habit of it, and it will improve your life.
A short while ago, our family of four was pulling out of our driveway just as the lawn service was finishing up. I rolled down the window and spoke to the woman who had just completed mowing. I thanked her for her for professionalism and attention to detail. I told her that her pride in her work was evident each week, and we sincerely appreciate it. As expected, she thanked me for noticing and left with a huge smile on her face. What was unexpected was the look on my wife's face - and on both my kids' faces. More big smiles all around. I quickly looked at my own reflection in the rear view mirror and saw the same thing. It's physically impossible to make someone feel good without improving your mood.
Be grateful for past mistakes and failures for they are most certainly life's greatest teachers. You may regret some previous decisions, but they have brought you the wisdom you employ today. Your future is brighter thanks to the well-learned lessons of your past.
Remember also to praise yourself each day. Many people have developed the unhealthy habit of focusing on what's wrong. What are you doing right? Maybe you're choosing healthier meals, demonstrating more patience with your children, or working efficiently on a project. Let yourself hear it. Pat yourself on the back. And smile.
Gratitude is not limited to your past or present circumstances. As a reader of this blog, you're obviously someone who is thinking forward, setting goals, and actively creating your brilliant future. Be thankful for the person you're becoming - for the life you'll be living. Your gratitude helps bring clarity to your vision of your greatest life.
Gratitude produces amazing results as it ripples in all directions positively impacting everyone - even you.
We thank you for sharing your time and insights with us. We always appreciate you!
Keep Leading Forward!
Deba and Brad Warren
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