I’m a big fan of The Upworthiest. Every day, I get some uplifting, positive stories in my in box. I suggest you check them out and subscribe. Reading their daily posts is a great way to start your day in a positive manner.
The other day they had a post called “25 cliches that are actually true and how they could change your life.” You can see it here. I’m not so sure that these are cliches but I’m not going to quibble because I think they are great life an career success advice.
There five in particular that I really like…
- Exercise daily.
- Be grateful.
- Be nice.
- Learn every day.
- Take action.
The other day, I wrote a post abut the exercise. You can see my thoughts here.
I am grateful everyday. I have been blessed with a pretty good mind, a strong work ethic and have had a rewarding and fulfilling career. I get to help people learn and grow. I know that I’ve been lucky in my life and career and I never forge that. When times get tough — and they have been pretty tough recently: Orlando, Istanbul — I think of all of the good things in my life and remain grateful.
Being nice pays off. First, you make the world a kinder, gentler place. Second, you never know when your smile or a pleasant word can really make someone else’s day. Third, nice people are more likely to get what they want. I think that the first two reasons should be enough to make you want to be nice. But if you’re completely pragmatic, the third reason should push you over the top.
I am a big believer in lifelong learning. If I don’t learn something new — however small — I consider it to be a wasted day. Lifelong learning begins with curiosity. Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it will make you a more interesting and successful person. I believe it was Gandhi who said, “Live as if you were to die tomorrow, Learn as if you are to live forever.” I agree.
Finally, take action. Do something. I send a daily quote to members of my career mentoring site. A couple days ago, I sent this one from Sam Ewing, a former major league baseball player. “Hard work spotlights the character of people. Some turn up their sleeves. Some turn up their noses, and some don’t turn up at all.” Turn up your sleeves and take action if you want to uscceed.
Your career mentor,
Bud
I have always subscribed to the “Be Nice” credo, because I grew up in a very critical environment. My mother complained constantly…..about everything and everybody. She’s 90 years old and is worse than ever! The surprising thing is that she still got most of what she wanted! I was always waiting for the day when somebody told her off….but it never really happened. People would just avoid us….
Any guesses as to why that was?
Alyssa:
It sounds as it your mother is a toxic person and people don’t feel it’s worth it to disagree with her.
Keep being nice.
It will pay of in the long run.
Bud