The fortune cookie post

Good morning! I thought I’d just send out good vibes to the world today by sharing a few things I’ve learned over the past few weeks:

1. You don’t need to get a higher paying job in order to have more disposable income. Some things you can do are: sell things you don’t use anymore, stop paying for things you could live without, stick to eating at home, or stick to a bill around $5 ($10 at the most) whenever you do eat out, and seek out sales for things you normally keep in stock. Mmm, maybe this topic deserves its own Blog post.
2. Don’t expect your partner to be capable of doing, or be willing to do, everything. Focus on their strengths and you on yours, and truly complement each other. Check the scoreboard at the door.
3. Failed friendships/relationships hurt, and the feeling of regret won’t go away. If it can’t be repaired, or you don’t believe there’s any point in trying, then educate yourself on the concept of cognitive dissonance and use it to convince yourself that you are both better off. Your own emotions and mental health should be your #1 priority. Instead of wallowing in self-pity, surround yourself by happy, cheerful people.
4. There are a lot of people who want to be around you, but you might not know it or realize it yet. It’s time to water those friendships and allow them to flourish. Call someone up for coffee this week, you might be surprised at what you find.
5. Give the bad news. People can handle it, and, after an appropriate period of shock, they will get used to it. They simply have no choice. However, be understanding, and support them through it (as backwards as it may seem)
6. Smile at people you just met. It makes you seem nice and approachable, and it makes them feel good (even if they don’t smile back at first, they’ll come around).
7. Don’t accept short or nonsensical answers when it comes to your health, and take accountability for your health by way of knowledge. Remember that NOBODY cares more about your health, and NOBODY knows your body, more/better than YOU. You are your best advocate.
8. Most times you can find a study or website that supports claims on both sides of the fence. Consider them both, but ultimately, it might come down to what you are comfortable with or what you believe in. Don’t ignore your gut feeling, as long as you’ve considered all angles.
9. Lastly, remember that being happy starts with you. Nobody else is responsible for it, and nobody will come and rescue you.
10. Floss.

Happy Tuesday everyone!

ina

PS: Added the last one at the last minute to make it an even 10 🙂 (yes, I’m Monk).

Photo credit: http://encouragedbyfaith.wordpress.com/2011/06/18/fortune-cookie/