Patience isn’t about waiting, it’s the ability to keep a good attitude while working hard for what you believe in.
As you move through the days and weeks ahead, remind yourself that it takes roughly 66 days to form a new habit. So for the next nine and a half weeks, consciously leverage the actionable reminders below to look at the brighter side of your life, and you will gradually rewire your brain…
1. Start steadying yourself with simple rituals.
When life feels like an emotional roller coaster, steady yourself with simple rituals. Make the bed. Water the plants. Rinse off your own bowl and spoon. Simplicity attracts calmness and wisdom.
2. Start filtering out the noise in your life.
Be careful about who you give the microphone and stage to in your life. Don’t just listen to the loudest voice every day. Listen to the truest one.
3. Start choosing differently for your own well-being.
A big part of your life is a result of the little choices you make every day. If you don’t like some part of your life, it’s time to start tweaking things and making better choices in the days and weeks ahead.
4. Start being a little more productive than you are busy.
There’s a big difference between being busy and being productive. If you’re going to put in some work between now and the end of the year, don’t confuse motion and progress. A rocking horse keeps moving but never makes any forward progress. In other words…
5. Start dedicating time every day to small, meaningful steps.
If you only have fifteen minutes to spare, no problem — make those fifteen minutes meaningful. Focus on taking one small step forward in the right direction. And even when the struggle is real, remind yourself that it always feels better to be exhausted from taking a small and meaningful step forward, than it does to be tired of doing absolutely nothing.
6. Start moving toward things, not away from them.
The best way to move away from something negative is to move toward something positive.
7. Start doing what’s right, even if it’s not the easiest option.
Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. Just because it’s easy, doesn’t mean it’s worth your while. Do what’s right, not what’s easiest right now. It’s a less stressful way to live in the long run.
8. Start comparing yourself to yourself (and no one else).
Forget what others have and where they are. You’re not walking in their shoes, and you’ll never comfortably walk in your own if you keep comparing yourself to them. So focus on what’s best for YOU and your unique circumstances. What do you need to do next for your own priorities and objectives? Do it! You won’t be distracted by comparison if you’re captivated with purpose.
9. Start being more tolerant of those who see things differently.
Engage with people, including those who think differently. Ask questions, listen closely, and remember that the way we treat people we disagree with is the best evidence of what we have truly learned about love, respect, and kindness.
10. Start letting grace have the last word.
We only really lose the little arguments our pride insists on winning. When it’s more important to win little arguments than love people, we need to start all over again with our faith, grace, and priorities. (Note: Angel and I discuss this in more detail in the Relationships chapter of “1,000 Little Things Happy, Successful People Do Differently”.)
11. Start giving without expectations.
You will end up very disappointed if you expect people will always do for you as you do for them. Not everyone has the same heart, values, or priorities as you. Keep yourself centered. The fact that you can plant a seed and it becomes a flower, share a bit of knowledge and it becomes another’s, smile at someone and give them hope, is proof that generosity works wonders behind the scenes. So…
12. Start being the difference you want to see in the world.
Be the change. What you give to another person is really what you give to yourself. When you treat others with love, you learn that you are lovable too. So keep doing your thing today with as much kindness, humility, and honesty as possible. Do what you do, not for repayment or an applause, but because it’s what’s right. Forget about popularity, and just focus on goodness and sincerity today.
13. Start being more present.
Gadgets are great, but they can get in the way if you aren’t careful. Control them so they don’t control you. Put down the phone when you’re socializing. Don’t avoid eye contact. Don’t hide behind a screen. Be present. Ask about people’s stories. Listen. Engage.
14. Start letting your actions speak to those you love.
Put first things first on the daily. Our closest relationships are vital to our overall peace and happiness. And as we tell those we love that we love them, we must never forget that the highest compliment is not to utter words, but to live by them.
15. Start finding more gratitude.
The secret to being grateful is no secret. You choose to be grateful. When you forget, begin again. (Note: Our newest publication via Penguin, “The Good Morning Journal: Powerful Prompts & Reflections to Start Every Day”, is a good tool for this kind of perspective shift and gratitude practice.)
16. Start complaining less.
Practice replacing the phrase “I have to” with “I get to” whenever you catch yourself starting to complain. So many activities we complain about are things others wish they had the chance to do.
17. Start opening up to new experiences and opportunities.
Don’t let not knowing how it’ll end keep you from beginning again right now. If we allow it to, uncertainty chases us out into the open where life’s true magic is waiting. Go somewhere new, and countless opportunities suddenly appear. Do something differently, and all sorts of great new possibilities spring up. Keep an open mind and have fun with life in the days and weeks ahead.
18. Start letting life’s little frustrations go.
Don’t let the silly little dramas of each day get you down. Joy starts on the inside. Practice focusing on what truly matters, and letting go of what does not. Use your frustrations to motivate you rather than annoy you. You are in control of your focus and how you choose to allocate your energy.
19. Start embracing the lessons life is teaching you.
You are a work in progress, which means you get there a little at a time, not all at once. Truly, everything that happens helps you grow. Oftentimes difficult experiences teach us priceless life lessons we didn’t think we needed to know. If you’re having some problems, that’s not a bad thing. It means you’re attempting things, taking steps, and making progress. The only people with no problems are the ones doing absolutely nothing.
20. Start focusing (more) on what you can control.
Don’t force things. Give things your best shot and then let them be. If it’s meant to be, it will be. Don’t hold yourself down with things you can’t control. Remember, no book is just one chapter. No chapter tells the whole story. No mistake defines who we are. Keep turning the pages that need to be turned.
Now it’s your turn…
Yes, it’s your turn today! I sincerely hope you will make the best of it all, that you will dream boldly and dangerously, that you will leverage the reminders above to create something that didn’t exist before you took action, that you will love and be loved in return, and that you will find the strength to accept and grow from the outcomes you can’t change. And, most importantly (because I think there should be more kindness and wisdom in this crazy world), that you will, when you must, be wise with your decisions, and that you will be extra kind to yourself and others.
And before you go, please leave Angel and me a comment below and let us know what you think of this essay. Your feedback is important to us. 🙂
Which one of the points above resonated the most today?
Finally, if you haven’t done so already, be sure to sign-up for our free newsletter to receive new articles like this in your inbox each week.
Vee says
The simple ideas you share always bring clarity to my self-discovery journey. This post came a right time as I’m currently in a journey of presence and learning to love myself and prioritize Me again. Thank you so much.
Brent says
Thank you for this article. I need to read this everyday!!
Jody Porta says
I saved this article and will write these in my journal, use them from prompts to record my day and do better. Thank you for your work in this!
Bob Stadelman says
Great article, always useful information on daily living practices and how to better yourself and improve yourself. Greatly appreciated,
Bob
Rex says
What a wealth of insight! Thank you so much for this article. The 12th point “Start being more present” resonates more.
I learnt that some years ago from a former boss who would always stop whatever she was doing just to give you a listening ear whenever you visit her office for a talk.
It’s really not helpful how you spend time with people who seem to be lost in their gadgets, giving you the impression that they would prefer to be somewhere else than to be with you. A good reminder for the gatherings I have planned in the coming days.
Julia says
“9. Start being more tolerant of those who see things differently…”
Wow, did this hit me between the eye’s! My daughter and myself don’t ever see eye to eye of each other. I am going to let #9 be one of my motto’s from now on. Thank you.
Lauranne says
Indeed, agreed.
Phyllis Elder says
I have a journal that I call my book of Nuggets. It contains thoughts, poems, statements and songs that encourage and inspire me to never stop dreaming. There is never a dull moment when I think outside the box and allow the music to touch your inner soul and dance with the wind. Thanks for these additions.
Jo says
Beautiful! I love, book of nuggets, so much personal power in this, thank you for sharing.
Maureena says
No. 18 is spot on… Start letting life’s little frustrations go. I realize that it is how i respond to situations that matter. And number 2 , for sure i ain’t gonna give the mic and stage in my life to the loudest as i will start filtering out the noise in my life. I will ONLY listen to the truest one.
Great self-reflection for me! Thanks.
Barbara says
Marc and Angel,
Love this affirmation of many truths! As I have retired, my purpose has been redefined, and it’s been difficult. One day at a time must become my mantra…thanks for help with this journey!
Diana says
Marc and Angel (and frequent fellow commenters), thank you from the bottom of my heart for being a positive influence in my life. I just turned 70 and I’m still learning and growing in this life. God is good and has sent you to help guide and focus my life on the things that really matter in this precious time we are given.
This entire article was so meaningful that I can’t choose just one. I hope you both have a wonderful day, and keep doing what you do so well… sharing your love and helping others.
Shirley Mae Williams says
Hello I’ve Been Reading These Essays Often, However I’ve Not Committed Once. I Would Like To Tell You Marc&Angel I’m 64 And I Still Need Reminders. So Thank You For All You Do & Are Doing To Help And Encourage These Mindsets That Keep Us Going Forward & Informed About Our Well-Being. I’m Sharing And Explaining These Concepts & Way Of Life To My Young Per Teen & Teen Grandchildren. Thank You. SMW
Shirley Mae Williams says
“AMEN” TOOK THE WORDS RIGHT OUT MY SOUL.
Rory Corsiglia says
A lot of what I read from your email is just like 12 steps work of A.A. All good. I sober 28 years. It’s taking care of yourself one day at a time.
Jacob Maxson says
Congratulations on your sobriety. I have very recently learned that isn’t always easy to come by. God bless!!
Susan says
Your words truly make an impact especially with learning to accept that everything isn’t always in our control. Thank you Marc & Angel.
June says
Thanks for the true nuggets within this post. All of the nuggets if truth resonate for me. I’ve finished a year if upheaval and am now starting to see restoration. Your thoughts and insights have helped me. Thanks again.
Jeni says
End with Grace – I love this! To win for the sake of ego feels worse than hollow – I intend to incorporate this into my mindset – embody grace, gentleness and love. Thanks for these reminders today.
Jani says
I really enjoy your articles, I’ve been going through a rough time and feeling frustrated about being stagnant. But these articles really help to lift the mood, encourage self love while I heal and accept that this is just a phase.
Jacob Maxson says
As always your post was informative and insightful. Thank you for sharing!!
Athman Fred says
I’ve gradually learned to relax with simply not knowing. I have been reading your articles since my freshman year at the university that’s over 12 years ago.
Your articles are so inspiring and motiving. I feel like I needed all the 20 points.
Thank you from a sincere heart, all the way from Kenya, and never lose your sparkle.
Yllka says
Thoughtful and grounding—this list feels like a gentle reset rather than another “fix your life” checklist. The focus on small, doable shifts and self-compassion makes it especially resonant and practical.
David Cleroux says
“Do what’s right, not what’s easiest right now. It’s a less stressful way to live in the long run.” “Keep doing your thing today with as much kindness, humility, and honesty as possible. Do what you do, not for repayment or an applause, but because it’s what’s right.” “Don’t force things. Give things your best shot and then let them be. If it’s meant to be, it will be. Don’t hold yourself down with things you can’t control. Remember, no book is just one chapter. No chapter tells the whole story. No mistake defines who we are.”
Such great quotes! Depicts how life is presenting itself to me these days. Thanks, very refreshing. Hugs.
Patricia says
20.start focusing more on things that you can control
Laura Cruz says
I truly believe so many points you touch on! It’s like a blueprint for so many who are aimlessly wandering in this earth each day. We don’t have control over everyone else, and I’ve let go of one thing after another with purpose. My home is my sanctuary, where I come at the end of the day and unwind with my 2 dogs. I have a glass of wine and do things with purpose. I’m getting better at procrastination, not leaving things undone, but doing. I find joy in small things and pleasure in giving. I’m in touch with wildlife in my little space and this is a true happiness. This essay is truly inspiring. Thank you for your time.
Pat says
Thank you for the comments! I am trying to change directions, and the comments were helpful. It was like hearing advice from a friend. Thank you.
Russana Morris says
What a wonderful reminder, an encouraging words to live by daily. Loved the much needed encouragement. Made my day more complete.
Althea says
This was an inspiring reminder to a peaceful and happy life. Not as the world gives it, but internally. True peace regardless of the happenings around us, around me and my life. What resonated most were “stop being busy, and be productive” and “Start focusing (more) on what you can control”. Often time life seems chaotic at every turn and in favour of others despite my actions or concerns I think are helpful/productive. This builds frustration. But if I apply those 2 points (I already apply most of your list) then I use less energy on the actions or results of others and focus more on what I can control and be more productive.
Keep writing and sharing bright sparks!
GRACE COONEY says
I LOST MY SON STEVEN 6 MONTHS IN A CAR ACCIDENT, IT’S THE WORST PAIN IN MY LIFE, I READ YOUR ARTICLE JUST ABOUT EVERY DAY. ALONG WITH OTHERS, DAILY DEVOTIONS ECT. AND IT DOES HELP SO THANK YOU.