10 Life Lessons That Can Help You

Photo bySlav RomanovonUnsplash

Don’t give up

We all have highs and lows in our lives. One day, everything is sunshine and roses, but the next day all the haters are out in force. No matter what burden you are carrying, or situation you are in, there is always a way back to happiness. Keep asking for help, and if that request is denied, look somewhere else. You can receive a million rejections, but one yes, one hand out to support you could turn your whole life around.

Throw all your excuses about why you cannot be happy in the trash and take that first step towards something better. Believe you are worth your best life.

I have days when I am discouraged. Two weeks ago, I sat in front of my computer and said, “This isn’t working.” I wrote an article called Time for a Reset. My mindset was that I had to stop pushing and hoping for the money, and focus more on my passion for writing, but several of my friends heard the discouragement and sent me beautiful notes encouraging me to keep writing. We might have to stop and regroup from time to time, but don’t give up.

Positivity is powerful

Staying positive and expecting good things to come your way can make a huge difference in your life. Positivity is strong energy, and the more you send it out, the more positive outcomes will come your way.

My friend Raleigh and I had finished a race, and we were going across the street to our favorite diner. Many of the other runners had headed there too. It looked very busy, but as we came closer, I said, “We are going to get right in.” Raleigh laughed and said, “We will be lucky to get in the door.” We walked in and he said, “Oh, my God.” On our left, there were two seats waiting for us. He is always amazed when the positivity works again. You have nothing to lose by trying positivity.

Someone needs you

You never know when your words are going to make a difference. There are so many people carrying burdens. Your words might be exactly what they needed to hear.

Have you ever been somewhere when a stranger starts talking to you, and you hear her story and struggle, and somehow you find a way to help a little? Those are God moments when God uses you to help someone else. He might have someone to lift you up too.

Keep growing and learning

I often learn from the many mistakes I make, but I also do my best to learn from the people who have found success. I listen to constructive critiques as well as other people’s wisdom. I don’t care how old or experienced you are, there is always an opportunity for growth.

Put in the work

My son’s fiancée is an accomplished artist, and if you say you are trying to figure out why you are not more successful, the first question she will ask is how much time you are devoting to your passion. That is a valid question because if you only want to work for a half hour once a week, you probably won’t be able to buy that mansion.

Ask for help

Never be too proud to ask someone questions about success. You can often find people who are willing to share resources. Find a mentor and ask for help.

Step out of your comfort zone

One of my writing goals is to write something in a variety of genres. Right now, I have published two children’s books, a self-help, a running book, a teacher’s guide, and I am doing the final edits on a romance. We grow when we step away from what makes us comfortable.

Make a gratitude list

When you start feeling discouraged take a break and make a list of everything you have accomplished and what you are grateful for having or having done. When you look at the list you will realize there isn’t any reason to feel down.

Save positive memories

I save kind notes that people send me, and then when I have a bad day, I look at them to lift my spirits. My writing space is full of photos, notes, and cards that make me smile.

Separate the noise

You are going to receive negative critique at some point. If a point is valid, I accept it gratefully. If it is only a hater who wants to hate, I carry on with my day. Realize too that everyone has an opinion, but you can choose to accept it or reject it.