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.

The truth is the majority of us are not going to be rich or famous.
Once you’ve gotten that out of the way, you can concentrate on who you are destined to be. Whatever you are, whether you work in or out of the home, whether you’re part of a couple or single, whether you are in the beginning of your life or the end, every moment is sacred and meaningful. Doing a good job on a report, fixing a good meal, changing a poopy diaper or relaxing on a summer evening–it should all be savored. When you can do that, when you can be in the moment, you are a success.

I am including a link http://www.dogwork.com/penf2/ to one of my favorite videos today because

a)   it’s funny

b)  we have no idea about animals, really

c)  we need to take a lesson

For the next week I have a suggestion. Be this penguin. Live your life like the gift it is. Quit complaining!!!!!!!

It’s called acting “as if.”  Act as if you life is great. Act as if you are madly in love with your partner. Act as if you are living your dream. Act as if you are totally satisfied with the amount of money you have.  Do it for a week—I promise you something will begin to happen.