Author: Jim Gohrick (Page 125 of 159)

Whether it’s your writing or conversations you have with someone in passing; are you revealing your authentic self? There’s no doubt, it can be frightening in today’s world with enough judgement and cancel culture to go around for a few lifetime’s, however, I could argue there is no better time than now to be the individual you intend to be – that you must be. Why? Because that is who you are.

I find it interesting how most high school kids will do whatever it takes to “fit in” the crowd and be absorbed into the group losing their individuality. Just as long as they don’t stand out with unwanted attention. It was like that when I was in high school and I did early on. Then we begin to mature and realize that’s exactly the opposite of what we want in life.

I think what we want more than anything is strike out and find our individuality – no matter how frightening it is – and make a statement of who we are. In turn elevating those around us up to do the same.

And to be recognized and respected for that individuality by others. This is how we can connect and cultivate our relationships with others.

There’s a million ways to do it. This is one.

Understanding what it is to be a human being doesn’t mean you have to accept it. Hang with me here: we know for example, that the unknown is far less appealing to people than the known. As a result, we tend to choose the path more traveled, what we did yesterday, experiences that we are familiar with. Right?

However, in knowing this, we can purposely choose to go the other direction and walk down the path less traveled not knowing what’s in store for us around the next corner. In a sense, embracing our fears of the unknown.

This would “appear” to be much more terrifying – but is it? I’m not so sure. Just because we are unable to determine the outcome before it happens doesn’t necessarily mean it’s “less frightening.” I would also argue that you are living in a world of delusion anyway thinking that just because you are repeating the same behavior as the day before that you can somehow predict the outcomes. That is not true either.

So, after all that, wouldn’t you want to participate in a behavior that rewards you for not “playing it safe?” In addition facing your fears and more times than not, shattering your false illusions? I do.

What say you?

Let go of your ego.

Apologize.

Have a little more patience with the next person you encounter.

Tell someone how great they are. And mean it.

Laugh.

Admit when you’re wrong.

Don’t gloat when you’re right.

Do something special for someone in your life and don’t take credit for it.

Write someone a love/like note.

Let your guard down.

Listen.

Laugh again.

Let go of that grudge and start anew.

Go out of your way to assist someone today.

Compliment a total stranger.

Look for an excuse to find the glass half full today. All day.

Listen some more.

Go through the day without saying something negative about anyone.

Laugh once again.

Wear a smile.

Let go and surrender.

Hello, from the classroom.

Well, maybe not figuratively. Then again maybe so.

I’m using “classroom” as a relative term. For the purposes here, It’s a metaphorical place to learn, to engage and to further yourself as a student of life. I know that sounds a bit hokey, but here me out.

I have no place in a traditional classroom. Or at least I didn’t feel like it when I was in school. Now that those days are behind me, I see it as only one place among thousands of where you can learn, grow and evolve. The traditional classroom and format of teaching is quite outdated and archaic. But don’t fret. There are so many more places to educate yourself.

It’s called life. Yes, I know you cannot get a high school diploma or bachelor’s degree from “life”, but there are alternative ways to get where you’re going and most of them may not be deemed “traditional.”

Besides, having a degree – whether it’s a bachelor’s, graduate’s or doctorate’s doesn’t make you smart. It certifies that you are able to navigate you’re way through hoops and obstacles within a system that may or may not give you the knowledge you need to be successful.

Is that worth hundreds of thousands of dollars to you? If so, go get it.

If not, then there are alternatives.

We must seek out what those alternatives are, and what best fits you – or your children. But, they’re out there.

Good luck.

Silence is golden. Add to that self-reflection and you’re on your way.

It is said that on the seventh day God rested. If so, maybe that’s an indication for us as well.

Rest, reflection and rejuvenation are the elements to consider once a week in order to reset your internal clocks and prepare for what’s ahead. Depending on your schedule – work with what’s best for you. Sunday’s is always an ideal day as it’s the last day of the week, however if it doesn’t fit your work week, then schedule what’s right for you.

Rest: take time to rest yourself physically, mentally and emotionally. I’m not saying you can’t exercise, because for me, that falls under rejuvenation, but the idea is to charge your batteries for the upcoming week.

Reflect: this can be a moment or two when you can objectively look at the past 7 days and assess your role in your week without the pressures of being in the thick of it. This way you may be able to view your performance in a much less subjective point of view.

Rejuvenate: This is the time you can create space in your day to do the activities that inspire you, lift you up and energize you. You may find it difficult at the beginning as you may want to distract yourself with “busy work.” Stick with it. Sit with yourself quietly to find out what really gets you excited and yet fulfills you as well.

Hopefully, you will feel much better going into your next work week after taking time for yourself in this way.

Who knows? You may even have a good Monday!