I turned 45 years old on August 14th so I felt it was fitting for this week's blog to share some of the things I've learned in those 45 years. In education, we often talk about "lifelong learners" and that is what I hope I can be. Sometimes, I'm a slow learner. Sometimes, I'm a reluctant learner. I just hope I can keep on learning as I will always be a "work in progress."
* Things are typically never as bad as you think they are....things are typically never as good as you think they are...it's easier to not get too low or too high...the swing of emotions from one extreme to the other can wear you out! Stay the course and don't get too excited or too depressed about a current situation...it can, and will, change often in most instances...
* Listening to actually listen and comprehend another person's point-of-view is way better than listening just so you can respond and debate your point of view
* There are many great people in the world, and certainly in Nebraska. Too often, we focus on selfish and entitled energy vampires that are unable to be happy for others instead of the energetic, positive, and enthusiastic people we should surround ourselves with. Cutting out as much fake from your life as you can allows you to focus on people that really matter.
* Learn to enjoy the small victories along the way because there will always be bigger challenges and adversities on the horizon. If you can't celebrate when given the opportunity, it is going to be hard to maintain your enthusiasm and sanity. Try not to let "losses" in your life hurt more than the "victories" in life feel good....it's hard to do...
* Have high expectations for yourself and be your own harshest critic but also give yourself a break from time to time. None of us are perfect and we need to be able to forgive ourselves once in a while.
* Good things happen to people that work hard.
* Black jellybeans aren't as good as purple jellybeans and pink ones are the tastiest of them all.
* When you're having a bad day, visit a kindergarten classroom as it is sure to put a smile on your face.
* It's the "little fish that steal the bait." By this, I mean it is often the little issues that cause big problems. Provide plenty of "attention to detail." Double-check on things. Beat a dead horse. Make sure that i's are dotted and t's are crossed. Some people will make fun of you for doing so but they'll also be glad you do when they have to count on you.
* You're going to get criticized for anything/everything you do. Be true to yourself. Be strong in your convictions and do what you think is best.
* Facebook and social media isn't real life...everyone is NOT living a happier and more successful life than you are...
* Control what you can control and don't spend too much energy on things beyond your control
* Always be thankful for what you can do instead of focusing on what you can't do...we need more positive in the world
* We need to get rid of Democrats and Republicans and focus on Americans....
* Spend time with your grandparents whenever you have the opportunity....your older self will be glad you did
* People that make fun of others for how they look, how much they weigh, what color their skin is, or how they talk are despicable....be kind...we all get one shot at life....be supportive of others even if they look different than you or believe differently than you do...
These are just some of the things that I've learned in 45 years. I need to be a better husband and dad in the next 45 years. I need to exhibit more patience, better voice tone, and more understanding of stressful situations and how they impact those around me. Here's to another 45-years!
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