A Good Kind of Independence

The way to gain a good reputation is to endeavor to be what you desire to appear. – Socrates We all want* a good reputation, to be well-regarded in the eyes of others. Wanting a “good” reputation is not enough though. You need to have a clear picture. You need a plan for creating and…

Not everything requires (just) “action.” So often the result of considering a problem or goal is asking: “What are you going to do about it?” It’s a useful question, for the most part. But it’s a micro strategy. Long-standing problems or significant goals require something more than micro – they require a combination of mindset,…

Are you frustrated by something? (Love it. It will transform.) Wish your spouse or partner was different/better/nicer? (Love them. They will “change” before your eyes.) Hate your job or business? (Love it. It will become something all together different.) . . . [insert your version of the above] Can’t do it? Can’t love “it” or…

If one or two people tell you you’re an ass, you can ignore them. But if three or four people tell you you’re an ass, you might think about putting on a saddle. – Yiddish saying The inverse is true as well. If people keep telling you that you have gifts or talents, you must…

Happiness is your nature. It is not wrong to desire it. What is wrong is seeking it outside when it is inside. – Ramana Maharshi I have been thinking a lot about how “personal development” works. How do we live a “good” life? How do we achieve our goals? How do we exist in a…

Everyone wants to be appreciated. So if you appreciate someone, don’t keep it a secret. – Mary Kay Ash To be appreciated is to be affirmed. To be affirmed is a reminder that we are beyond mere survival in the world and we free to use our gifts and talents to be fulfilled and help…