Sometimes you need to shake things up– come at a problem from a different angle, step back from a routine, challenge the status quo. We are creatures of habit. We take the same routes to work, chat with the same friends at break, watch the same TV programs, read the same news sources, eat the same foods, think the same thoughts. What if today was a day to be different? A day to attempt something you’ve always wanted to try, a day to introduce yourself to someone new, a day to learn a new hobby, a day to listen– really listen– to someone whose opinions differ greatly from your own, a day to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and walk around a bit, a day to be vulnerable, a day to apologize, a day to consider all your other days and where they are leading? What then?

Jaqueline Kennedy once said that, “If you bungle raising your children, I don’t think whatever else you do matters very much.” Our children are our highest priority. Through our love and attention, they can grow up believing in themselves and their ability to make a difference. For a fascinating discussion on how simple changes in the ways we speak to them and affirm their efforts can make profound differences in their future lives, go here. It’s not about an A; it’s about engagement. It’s not about learning one skill; it’s about curiosity. It’s not about talent; it’s about effort. Simple shifts, profound results!

Normally, we don’t see the ripples spreading from the kind acts we do. But what if we could? What if kindness literally colored the world? For an adorable and uplifting video on just that, go here.  It will start your day off with a smile!

Dr. Brene Brown explains, “Courage is a heart word. The root of the word courage is cor – the Latin word for heart. In one of its earliest forms, the word courage meant “To speak one’s mind by telling all one’s heart.” Over time, this definition has changed, and today, we typically associate courage with heroic and brave deeds.” For her powerful TED talk on courage, vulnerability, and the importance of telling your story, go here.

Before you speak, THINK. Is it

True

Helpful

Inspiring

Necessary

Kind?

Martin Luther King, Jr. continues, “You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” What would this world look like if everyone was considering what they could offer rather than what they could take? For an inspiring video on this point by Nipun Mehta, the founder of the organization I work with, ServiceSpace, go here.  Very much worth the watch!!