The most important thing in life is a good attitude, as it is the defining characteristic of who you are, how you choose to engage with the world, and the legacy you ultimately leave behind.
The ideal attitude towards life, one that brings the most contentment and harmony seems to be one that combines:
- Compassion for others – Understanding situations from multiple angles, not just your selfish perspective. Being kind to others as you make your way through life and its challenges. Supporting others with their challenges as you do for yourself.
You are in a partnership with all other human beings, not a contest to be judged better than some and worse than others.
- Hard work – no matter what the challenge, there is no better way to meet it than to spend time practicing, researching, and working hard towards a goal. Finding a good balance between work and play is key.
- Being yourself – Allowing yourself to be comfortable with who you are, not being defined by other’s perceptions of you. This means having confidence, following your passions and talents to make a living doing what you love. And most importantly, not playing the “victim” of your circumstances.
- Taking risks – Without putting ourselves on the line, out there exposed to possible failure and rejection, there is no growth in life. What’s the worst thing that can happen? Usually it’s not that bad.
- Detachment from outcomes – Putting in the time to reach your goals, yet not worrying about the future or trying to control the outcome or other people. Not doing things just for material success, but rather because you think it’s aligned with your values and purpose.
- Embracing conflict – When things go wrong, use it as an opportunity to learn and challenge yourself and the people around you. Don’t blame others, look within and see how you may be subconsciously contributing to the problem.
- Enjoying the moment – Trying to enjoy the ups and downs of life, planning and strategizing for the future, yet staying nimble and adapting to the environment as it changes around you. Savoring simple pleasures in life like [food]http://advicy.com/eating-well/, friends, and family.
- Having a sense of humor – Defusing tension by adding a little bit of humor to relationships, not taking yourself or others too seriously.