The opening quote of what changed Sir William Osieris “Our main business is not to see what lies dimly at a distance, but do what lies clearly at hand.” In other words, like said by so many authors, go out and do today’s work superbly, because this is the best way to prepare for the future.
Be like an hourglass that is filled up the sand at the beginning of the day. The day for us is every single grain of sun passes through it one at a time.
Only live until bedtime! For every day brings new life. Don’t dream for tomorrow.
For working through a problem: This technique allows you to focus on what the problem is and in reducing that worst-case scenario, as opposed to worrying about a multitude of problems. It is like putting on some blinkers and focussing on that one thing. Here is a 3 step approach:
- Analyse the problem and then state what is the worst that can happen.
- Once you know what the worst thing that can happen is, reconcile yourself to accept it.
- Now commit to trying to improve upon the worst thing that can happen.
How to analyze and solve worry problems, another three-step process:
- Get the facts (imagine you are collecting for someone else).
- Analyze the facts (prepare an argument so pros and cons).
- Arrive at a decision and then act on that decision.
Finally, another approach to worry is to:
- Write down what are you worrying about.
- Write down what can you do about it.
- Decide what to do and then do it!
A fantastic quote is in the book James Allen’s as a man thinketh “Man did not attract that which they want, but that which they are.”
On reducing problems:
- What is the problem?
- What is the cause of the problem?
- What are the possible solutions to the problem?
- What solutions will you use to move forward?
On worrying, keep yourself busy! He goes on to say not to spend too much time worrying about a subject; an analogy of not spending too much on your whistle.
Act happy and you will become it.
Never hate your enemy, as it only serves to give them power over our sleep and our thoughts and comments. Forgive and forget your enemies. Do not waste a second thinking about your enemies.
Don’t assume that people will be grateful towards you. Don’t expect anything in return. Be like the vine providing grapes. Gratitude is like a rose it has to be fed, watered, cultivated, loved and protected. Finally, give for the joy of giving.
We seldom think of what we have but of what we lack. Count your blessings, not your troubles.
Always be yourself and never be someone that you are not. Don’t be ashamed of who you are. Make the most of what nature gave you. Do not imitate others. Find yourself and be yourself.
The best things are the most difficult. Remember to profit from your losses.
Every day, think about how you might please one person. This will lead to making you more popular. Take an active interest in them. Ask someone about their experiences and dreams.
On being critiqued. He says that no one kicks a dead dog, they only kick the ones on the up. People will become jealous of you. Ignore the unjust criticism.
Record good and bad decisions over the week. Reflect on these every Sunday.
Clear your desk of clutter or things you need to address, as this will clutter your mind. Also, answer emails immediately – remix in Tim Ferris and batch answer them.