Influence vs Suggestion

Quote:   We become that which has influenced us the most.  – Wilfred Peterson

Perspective:  I got a little arrogant when I read this quote.  I proudly hailed I am my own person – no reality TV show nor a soap opera nor a political party no social media influence me!  HA!!

Whenever I get that bombastic, I look for humility.  When I couldn’t find any humility, I looked up influence in the dictionary.  One definition is: 

The action or process of producing effects on the actions, behavior, opinions, etc., of another or others. 

 What has influenced me has changed over my adulthood.  Media, college, friends, family when I was in my 20s.  My husband (now my ex-husband), colleagues, family, friends, job, my manager in my 30s.  It took until I was 40+ to realize God (HP, the guy upstairs, etc) influences everything I do.  God is my foundation for everything.  My belief in God balances me, helps me show love to others, and has increased my faith.  

In coaching, we ask, “What is your ‘come from’ place”?  Is your ‘come from’ place:  jealousy, greed, procrastination, or fear?  Is your ‘come from’ place:  faith, love, being grateful, happiness, or generosity?  

Those “positive” characteristics are tough for me.  I’m a pessimist.  I’m used to looking on the dark side BEFORE the bright side.  Is it possible I could turn my thinking around 360 degrees?  What if it WAS possible?  What if it IS possible?  It is … I can … it does.  

Now my influence is strong and motivating and progressing me forward.  Thank you HP!!

Call to Action:  What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done?  Get a full back tattoo?  Skydive from 5,000 feet?  Tell your partner you love them?  What was your thinking process before, during, immediately afterward?  Relive those moments before, during, and immediately afterward.  Now how do you feel?  What’s the next “crazy” thing you’re going to do???!?!?!    

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Happy vs. Thankful -- REDUX

Quote:  Happiness has nothing to do with your life's circumstances; it’s based on your ability to accept the things you are experiencing. – Nishan Panwar

Perspective:  My level of acceptance depends on my happiness at that moment.  Have I eaten a meal?  Do I need to go to the bathroom?  Am I waiting for a NYC bus in January? 

Or does my level of happiness depend on my acceptance in that moment?  Can I network (or commiserate or just chat) with others after my meal or while waiting for the bus?  What is possible if I’m open?

Yes even if I have to pee … something incredible is possible!!

Accepting is a knowing that whatever comes, I will get through with flying colors.  It’s about bending and being ready for whatever comes my way. 

Have you ever been fired or laid off?  Was your next job more amazing than the previous one?  Or did you start a business that changed the world?  Or just changed YOUR world and YOUR way of thinking?  

When my father died, I realized my mother was my only living parent.  Previous to that, my relationship with her was fractured.  We had little in common.  Did I really want to hang out with her without Dad?!?!!!?? 

One Thanksgiving holiday, Mom and I were watching a comedy film on TV.  It was also one of my father’s favorite films of all time.  Previous to that, I didn't remember Mom EVER enjoying this film.  In fact, I remember her saying it was vulgar.  Now she was laughing so loud and long, she told me her stomach hurt.  In the past, I remember my father loving this comedy and he would laugh so loud and long his stomach would hurt.  My father was there with us watching.  

That’s the day that changed us both.  We started to talk.  Our journey to friendship and hilarity grows every day.

By the way, Mom is 86.  Yes she’s still a pistol!!  

Thank you Mom for showing me acceptance!   

PS >> Yes, I have thanked her in person. 

Call to Action:  What do I continuously justify in my life today?  How am I feeling my way is the only way?  What can I turn over and become free of resentment or remorse or guilt?  Can I hear another point of view?  

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