So here are 10 principles I live by and I'm sharing this with you because it's the reason I am emotionally content. I've had a number of friends and acquaintances come up to me and ask me so randomly, "how can you be so happy all the time?" or "Your person is so welcoming, no one can hate you, everyone wants to be around you".
So here are 10 principles I live by that probably make me such a nice person ;)
I'm not boasting, but I'm sure this will make an interesting read:
1. Don't expect anything from anyone.
This one stands true for every form of relationship you can think of. The more you expect, the more space you allow for disappointment. The solution is to not expect. That way everything is a surprise.
2. Give all you can without expecting in return.
Keep giving all you can, give to the poor, give a listening ear, give some advice, give some time, be kind, care for your loved ones, respect nature, give back and never for once do it because you want something in return. Give with an open heart even when nothing is promised in return.
3. You are entitled to expect respect.
Do not for once think that because you love someone, they are allowed to use you as a door mat. Your love for someone can be unconditional, but the moment he/she begins to treat you less than you truly are, start demanding respect. By demanding respect, I mean, let them know you're no one to be taken advantage of.
4. Don't depend on others, be independent.
For as long as you're dependent on others, you will never be able to find your own contentment. Of course there are exceptions to this rule but in a bigger picture. Teach yourself things, learn from everyone and everywhere, don't be afraid to ask questions now, so that you know for the future. The people you depend on for favors today will not be here forever and if they are, they probably will expect a favor in return even if they don't tell you.
5. You need to want something badly enough to actually get it.
Wanting something is different from needing something. When you need something, the want comes naturally. But when you don't need it and you want it, excessive desire will eventually lead you to work really hard to acquire it. When you want it bad enough, you will get yourself to get it!
6. Know that no one will ever share the same experience as you, even if they say they've been there.
It is impossible for anyone to have the exact same experience as you at any point in time, any place on this earth or any state of mind. This is because every single person's thoughts are influenced by so many external and internal factors. The mind's capacity in grasping new things is different from every other mind. One's opinion on a particular subject, whether expressed or not ,will differ and it changes the whole definition of 'I've been there too'.
7. You don't need constant company, learn to be alone once in a while.
No man can live as a island but no man died keeping quiet for 5 minutes. Learn to enjoy your own company. If you cannot be alone for 10 minutes it means you cannot leave yourself to your own thoughts. And if you can't stand yourself, how will anyone else stand you?
8. When you give it all you got, the result will always be worth it.
Hard work never goes in vain. When you give it all you got, and by this I mean when you know for sure you've done every single thing to make it work, things will work out. And if they don't then you know for sure that what you were lacking on, was out of your hands (external factors). However, don't use that as an excuse, if you know where you went wrong and if you fix that, the next time is a sure shot success.
9. Some people will never be convinced, don't waste your energy, the truth always prevails.
It is not your duty to convince someone of a universal truth. You can say as much as you want and sound as convincing as you can and there will still be people who will choose to disagree with you. Don't waste your time on people who are not open to science and logic. At the same time, do not insult ones beliefs or ridicule one's religion. Everyone has their own opinion and they have the right to have it. You may not be able to prove yourself right all the time and that shouldn't worry you one bit. Its okay to leave an argument half way and it's even okay to admit you are wrong when you really are wrong.
10. A lot of people won't acknowledge your presence in their lives now, but they will at some point, don't be an ass to them then.
There are so many people in your life right now who will go away as time goes by. People will leave and some will come back again. Some are really close friends, some just the hi-bye type of friends. However, if any of these 'friends' need your help in the far future, do not turn a deaf ear to them just because they weren't in touch with you for a number of years or because they forgot your birthday or something of that sort. Remember that you will be remembered for your deeds and not for your name. You will be acknowledged for your person and not for your fame.
And finally, no one owes you anything. Life is not unfair. You make the most out of what you have and learn to be content with what you own. Don't compare and don't complain. We all fight different devils each with our own capacity. You may be a drop in the ocean but even that's enough to quench someone's thirst.
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