I enjoyed reading this book specially because it made me realize all the many impressions I form of the world around me without consciously thinking about it. It is so easy to get wrapped up in the dai;y frustrations and setbacks in life that we don’t see the good in anything anymore. Instead of letting the small stuff rule your life, you can teach yourself to look at everything from a new perspective.
For my part, I have found I became a much calmer person when I put these lessons into practice. I find myself asking more often “What is the big deal?”
Richard Carlson offers a few things to practice that can pave the road to a calmer and happier you.
Don’t take things too seriously: If you stop and think about the things that you find yourself worrying about, you will realize that many of them are not important at all.
Learn to Relax and Calm yourself: Most people enjoy relaxation, but think that they can only take it easy when all the work is done. The reality is that there will always be work left to do. Don’t spend every moment in a race against time trying to check every box.
Show kindness to others whenever you can: People are unintentionally unkind every day. When having a conversation, do you try to finish the other person’s thoughts and sentences? Do you frequently interrupt them?
Nobody is perfect and that’s OK: There is no such thing as perfection. When you chase perfection, you are constantly focused on what is wrong in your life. Instead, look for the good stuff and learn to live with the imperfections. Give yourself a break!
Learn to accept things as they are: When you realize that all the little things really aren’t so bad, it’s easier to see that your life at this moment is just fine.
Patience is a skill you can practice: In order to accept what is, practice patience. Without patience you become intolerant of mistakes in yourself and others. And yes, from my own experience – you CAN become more patient over time.
Expressing appreciation and gratitude puts things in focus: Think about how great it feels when someone thanks you without prompting for something you have done. It fills you with a desire to continue doing things for the grateful person. Thanking someone not only makes them feel good, but makes you feel good too.