Dr. B. J. Fogg, author of Tiny Habits: The Small Changes that Change Everything presented his formula for adopting new habits in The Wall Street Journal. He said his formula applies to everything from flossing your teeth to running marathons. In his words, “To instill a habit, the first thing you need is motivation; Pick a behavior…
Have you ever wondered why some people are able to take criticism in stride while others seem to be crushed by it? During an interview with Jennifer Lopez on her television talk show, Rachel Ray asked her how she was able to deal with all the criticism that went along with being a star. Ms.…
In an article which appeared in the Detroit Free Press, Mitch Albom described a cab ride he took to the Bristol, Connecticut airport. As he got into the cab he said to the driver, “How are you doing?” The driver only nodded and didn’t seem too friendly. As Mitch described him, “He was foreign looking…
Most of us are not afraid of trying new things; we just don’t make it a priority. Then, when we do try something new and realize how positive the experience was, we often kick ourselves for not having done it sooner. Trying new things enriches our lives in a number of ways: It allows us…
I came across a wonderful quote on Facebook by Amy Weatherly that provides a very important lesson for all of us during this busy holiday season. “You’re going to come in contact with an awful lot of people who are at their absolute breaking point this season. Friends, family co-workers, teachers, strangers in the store,…
Until a year ago, I rarely dealt with the bank branch that handled my business account. Those transactions were always handled by an associate. Then, it became more convenient for me to take care of those transactions. When I first started going there, the place seemed dark, dreary and lifeless—I felt like I was in…
A friend of mine made the following posting on Facebook. I found it so profound that I felt compelled to share it with you: “Eight days ago, my husband had a heart attack (he’s doing fine now). And after much thought I have two things to say about it. This will probably be long, so…
A Dear Abby column carried a poem titled Decide to Forgive that was written by Robert Muller, a former assistant secretary-general of the United Nations. Several lines in the poem caught my attention: To forgive is the highest, Most beautiful form of love. In return you will receive Untold peace and happiness. The column then ended with this statement: “Only the brave…
Paul Nicolaus posted a fascinating article titled, “Want to Feel Happier Today? Try Talking to a Stranger,” on npr.org. According to the article, talking to strangers puts us in a better mood, makes us feel more connected to our community and improves our level of happiness. Despite these benefits, Mr. Nicolaus points out that many…
Over the years, I’ve observed a lot of people who, when things don’t go as planned, become angry, upset or even have a “melt-down.” During the process, they make themselves and everyone them around them miserable. Hey, delays and interruptions are a part of life and it’s always been that way–to expect otherwise is to…