Animals! They bring joy just by being themselves and that by simply ’being’ you bring joy to others. That’s why you have been created to be exactly who you are.

Little things. Like putting the neighbor’s paper on their porch. Posting a positive comment on facebook. Emptying the dishwasher when it’s not your turn. Life may turn on the big events but it is sustained or damaged by the small ones. You may not realize it but you can completely change a person’s day by a simple act of kindness. Doing something thoughtful is like sprinkling fairy dust on someone’s life. It is magical and gives you wings.

Are you flexible? Can you roll with the punches, bend with the wind? If you can, life will be calmer. Don’t have all the info you need for a report? Need 36 cupcakes by 9:00 a.m.? There is always something that can be substituted or explained and the moment will slip by with no further notice.We need to accept that life doesn’t always work the way we want it to–and when it doesn’t, we just move on and do the best we can. There are enough big problems that we don’t have to create additional ones. Inhale, exhale slowly and let it go.

Did you know you have a secret relationship weapon? It is available 24/7 and is free. It puts people at ease and makes you approachable. It encourages conversation and connection. One warning–used insincerely, it has the opposite effect. Give up? It’s your smile. Use it frequently and watch your life change for the positive.

If you can’t get a spouse, child or friend to open up to you, ask their opinion about something.”What do you think of Becky’s new bike?” “What are the mayor’s chances of being re-elected?” We all want to feel valued and being asked our opinion is a sign of that. It not only costs nothing but gives you both the gift of connection.

We all remember Mr. Roger’s neighborhood….it was friendly, safe and never hurried. Ever wish your world could be like that?  Every day we have a choice–our world can be pleasant, safe and friendly, even if there are people who want to make it just the opposite. We are the ones who are in control–not our “neighbors.” We can choose how we feel about situations and how we respond to others–regardless of how they act toward us. When we react to others, we are giving away our power and our self-esteem. We are not so fragile that an unkind comment can demolish us. Remember that old childhood chant, “Whatever you say bounces off me and sticks to you”? Well, it’s true. When we choose not to react, the person is left with their comment hanging in the air–and others remember them for saying it. Life is too short to allow the negative in. Instead, put your sweater and sneakers on and have a beautiful day.