Author: Jim Gohrick (Page 10 of 160)

Why do we tend to give more respect to others than ourselves? Why do we tolerate less negative behaviors directed at our friends than we endure repeatedly over time? How come we compromise what we expect for ourself, yet demand near perfection from our colleagues?

I think it comes down to perspective. It’s how we see ourselves in this grand ole’ world of ours. It can be quite a challenge for us to have objectivity when it comes to judging ourselves, our behavior and expectations.

Maybe we can step outside our own bodies and see ourselves as a “best friend.” What would you say to someone you truly care about and only want what’s best for him/her? Would you be authentic? Kind? Respectful? Encouraging?

Probably. Because you have a deep Love for them and want them to be the best version of themselves they can be while on this earth.

Now, look in the mirror.

Less is more in so many aspects of our lives.

When we simplify our lives we go deeper into our chosen tasks we focus on. How can that be bad?

Even talking less brings about added benefits. We’re more effective as we choose our words wisely. We give others an opportunity to contribute their point of view (I hope it’s brief).

We free ourselves up to have some breathing room. Literally and figuratively. There’s space in our lives to think. To ponder. To question.

Nobody likes it when people over-stay their welcome. So let’s consider less. Always.

I truly believe that when our backs are against the wall and we have no safety net, that we rise to the occasion.

The question is this: Are we willing to put it all the line? No doubt, this can be terrifying. To the point where we freeze in fear and do nothing.

But, when there are no other options, I believe our survival instincts kick in and we make it happen. And I don’t mean low-stakes. I mean high. Really high! To the point that it would be devastating to our lives if we failed. Another words – we couldn’t.

Why would anyone paint themselves into such a corner? To find out who they really are.

Who am I? Who are you?

Don’t take yourself so goddamn seriously.

I prefer variety. In my choice of clothing. My cuisine and my activities, but there is power and focus in simplifying.

I’ve always found it fascinating when I see people who choose to wear the same color of suit, shirt and tie to work. Their closet is filled with duplicates. There’s not a lot who lean this way, but it gets me thinking. They would claim it takes the guess work out of picking an outfit. Okay. I don’t feel like I waste too much time doing that, but I can see the value. That way we can focus more time on the important things.

This very well may carry over into other aspects of our lives as well. It would certainly save time walking around a grocery store deciding on what to buy for dinner if I chose to eat the same thing every night. I’m not quite sure how long I would last with that, though.

In my business, I’m sure I can simplify not only what I focus on in my daily tasks, but what we choose to market to the public. Maybe if we stripped it down to just one feature that our product includes and market that. Apple was notorious for doing this. They seemed to do alright.

Simplicity may very well be the answer to a lot of problems.