The tool kit

Going through life there are so many lessons to learn. Each time you pick yourself up again collecting a tool to help you tackle next time. Now in my late twenties, i can already look at my partially filled tool box. The kit is compiled out of my accumulated life experiences and have shaped who i am today. Here are a few items i have collected and would love to share with you:

Be open to new experiences. Obviously you should not be saying yes to everything that comes your way, but always try to tackle new challenges. Do new things, break down your barriers, make new friends or try that food you always wanted to. Who knows, it could be the best thing you have ever done. Thinking back, if i didn’t take some risks in my life, i would not be where i am today. And you know what, today, is not so bad!

Trust should be earned. I have been knocked down with this one allot. I have learned to not throw my trust around willy nilly. Unfortunately, there are people in this world that have bad intentions. They pray on those who trust to quickly. Don’t get me wrong, you must still always see the best in others, however take relationships/friendships slowly to ensure you are placing your trust in the right people. Actions do speak louder than words here.

Never materialise negative thoughts. Sharing negative thoughts towards others is always a no no. Do not write that email to that annoying colleague, do not send that text to that vindictive friend and do not, i repeat do not send that voice note to your ex. This is a trap. Not only are you incriminating yourself, but you are also exasperating the issue. Relying on your emotions in the heat of the moment will always end in tears. Should there be a problem, tackle things head on and face to face, in a professional and kind manner or deal with it internally if it’s a you problem.

Honesty just is the best policy. Take ownership of your actions always. If you are confronted with a question, answer honestly to the best of your ability. Deceit is a slippery slope. Lying about even the smallest details or not saying anything at all (lying by omission) will snowball into more lies and you know where that leads. Avoid unnecessary stress and fess up. Be honest with others around you to create a healthy environment of honesty.

Always compliment and spread joy. Walk around with that smile on your face, we all know you look great with it on! Find one thing you like or admire on anyone you meet and compliment them on this. Not only does it feel great to give compliments, but will also intern effect their day in a positive way. Help that lady reach the can in the grocery store, strike up a conversion with the lonely elderly man and make a silly face at the toddler in the bank line. Spreading kindness and joy in your surroundings will inevitably create a better place for all.

Take a moment to smell the daisies. Life gets busy. We all get into our set routine, the dinners we make, the drive we take to work, day in day out. We get so crazy thinking about the next thing, we never stop to enjoy the moment we are in. I have come to the realisation that when i look forward to an event and i am finally in it, i am already looking to the next one. I have been missing out on my life. Quieting my mind and being present in every moment has been a great gift to me. Slowing down and enjoying life is a good thing. Soon we might not be mobile, or able to drive and have freedom like we do now. I want to look back fondly on the memories i didn’t waste.

Well, there you have it. I still make mistakes, who doesn’t? As long as we learn from them and apply these tools as we continue to move forward in life. Growing is a part of our experience and sharing our knowledge builds a better world.

Note: Sometimes some people just need to learn their own lessons.

Till next time…