Most unhappy people need to learn just one lesson: how to see themselves through the lens of genuine compassion, and treat themselves accordingly.
Do whatever work feeds your true self, even if it’s not a safe bet, even if it’s like a crazy risk, even if everyone in your life tells you you’re wrong or bad or crazy.
During the times we think we’re being “unproductive,” the seeds of new worlds are germinating within us, and they need peace to grow.
Don’t fight fearful thoughts. Just match each one with an alternative thought that brings you more peace.
The way we do anything is the way we do everything.
What should you do now? Find a new way. A better way. Your way. The unknown, uncharted path through this wild new world that allows you – yourself, in your uniqueness – to reclaim the full measure of your true nature.
Judgments that constrain your giving are the very demons that are keeping you from receiving.
No one can give you anything-love, shame, self-esteem- until you give it to yourself. Today, give yourself good things.
To know what that true self is without social pressure is to know your true nature.
My deep belief is that all of us have the same lifelong work: to learn honesty, courage, and love. To learn, in other words, how to be our best selves.
Recurrent floods of sadness and anger gradually wash away the rubble of the defunct relationship, leaving only the bits of treasure: the remembered moments of real communion, a new understanding of your own mistakes, a clear picture of the dysfunctions you will never tolerate again.
The power to bring me out of solitude – or to push me back into it – had never belonged to another person. It was mine and only mine.
To be really productive, it’s as important to rest when we’re tired as it is to work when we’re inspired.
If you’re religious, it gives you a perspective.
When making a decision, focus on what feels “shackles off” versus “shackles on”.
I’ve developed the habit of mentally listing things that make me optimistic about the future. I do it every day.
Anger elicits anger, fear elicits fear, no matter how well meaning we may be.
Try seeing your world and yourself this way, eyes open to whatever is before you, mind free of dichotomies. Are you good or bad, fragile or tough, wise or foolish? Yes. And so am I.
The end goal of all of this striving is to live joyfully, and that there are often more direct ways of achieving this than conforming to rigid standards set by social custom.
Learning to quit while you’re not ahead, when the dull ooze of depression tells you things are not going to get any better, is one of the best financial and life skills you can master.