That’s it. It’s that simple.
Author: Scott
Close Loops
Each time we start something we are best to finish it or cancel it. We need to close the open loop.
You see, when you start a conversation, a project, a task or even an idea in your head, you open a loop. Your mind will keep coming back to this loop until it is closed in some way – completed, cancelled, accepted.
This revisiting of these open loops can drain you of energy and decision making power. That is not good. It leaves less energy for current important things. So every time you can, Close an open loop. You’ll feel lighter and be more effective.
Do Something Nice For Someone
Phone a friend. Help someone cross the street. Help lift a baby carriage or pram. Fill a car with petrol. Give a compliment. Send them a message or write them a card. Send flowers.
It doesn’t need to cost anything or much but it could mean the world to that person. Practice kindness every day.
Go With Your Gut
Many people will say different things. Hear them. Weigh their words. But what is the sense in your gut? Many people get things wrong, even if they are experts. You must question and get second or third opinions.
Have Some Fun
Keep it simple. It doesn’t have to cost much. Go to the park to fly a kite, swim in a lake or watch the birds. A local walk, some comedy on tv, or a chat with your favourite person could all be lots of fun. Enjoy it while you can!
You’ll Need Other’s Help As Long As You Don’t Really Want To Change
Once you’ve made a decision, with a clear commitment to change, you will do it. It’s easier if you have a clear target and a path to get there and beyond.
Then you no longer need to read up on it, have people help you or go on courses. Your determination will be a very powerful force.
You may still want some help to maintain your discipline but it will be help, not a crutch.
Make the decision. Commit. Win!
What We Say About Others
We tell people what is important for us about the other person. We do not describe the other person in an unbiased way. We describe them based on our bias and what we want to convey.
So when news reports come out, be sceptical about why the reporter is using those words and in that order. What picture are they painting and why?
When a friend describes another friend, where are they positioning them in your mind?
If you liked Margaret Thatcher, you might describe her as a strong woman, the Iron Lady, who rose from humble beginnings, with a common background, to the halls of power. If you were less of a fan you might just say she was anti-union and destroyed coal mining in the UK.
Both are descriptions that people could use about the same person. So we don’t simply describe the other person, we describe the characteristics that we want to highlight about the other person. So why did we choose those specific highlights?
Tidy Up Your Financial Affairs
Have you got anything outstanding? Is there an invoice you should have sent? Or perhaps some taxes that are due to be filed? Maybe you have an insurance claim or credit cards to attend to.
Whatever it is, it will take longer than you think to do and won’t get done until you sit there for several hours and sort it out. Don’t let it keep drifting along. Complete the work today!
Appreciate People
Something we all could do a little more is appreciate people. Not just a passing thanks but a stop-and-feel-the-moment kind of appreciation.
Celebrate!
Whether it’s a birthday, a win, closing a deal at work or an anniversary with your spouse, make sure you really celebrate for it.