Part of thanksgiving is feeling gratitude. It is about being grateful for what we have. Focusing on that is a game changer. For the readers of this blog, we have a lot to be grateful for (for starters, you have eyesight and are able to read, you have a computer, electricity, and some form of shelter, you are on the path of growth and development, etc.).
Yet. There is another side to Thanksgiving. That is saying 'thank you' to those who have specifically contributed in a positive way to our lives. It could be something small or it could be big. Either way, we have some obligation to recognize the other person. To say thank you. It is amazing how few people actually do this.
Let's start a trend and begin appreciating those who contribute to the quality of our lives with a heartfelt thank you (throughout the next 12 months). Other people will appreciate the recognition and we will feel good at the same time.
If you are in a leadership role, consider adding this practice to your performance objectives for the coming year. It is a kaizen practice (something small that will have a huge impact). You will thank me later.
One of my best friends passed away in 2012 from a massive stroke. He was a great man. He was successful beyond imagination from the stand point of wealth, power and influence. Yet, deep down, he felt something was missing. He felt an existential lack.
Have you ever camped at a National Park in the United States? Ever stood around a camp fire with friends only to notice one guy’s boots were two sizes too large. They flapped as he shifted his feet to stay warm. These monstrosities were too close to the fire and were in danger of burning. No one said a word. He himself did not know it until it was too late... until his boots were on fire [true story].
Good soup, good art, good music, good work. All required what Ludwig Van calls a pure heart.
Do it Steve's Way:
Keep plugging year after year, staying true to your vision, doing what you love.
Even if you get fired.
Many, many people want love.
They spend their whole life wanting it.
No one ever told them that they can generate love themselves.
There is no need to wait.
Start loving right now.
Start blessing everyone you see. Especially those who (for mysterious reasons) rub you the wrong way.
Bless all, in every moment, on every occasion.
Silently wish them the best things in life, with no reservations, from the bottom of your heart.
There you go. Keep doing it until it becomes your default way of being.
You can do this.
And you will never have another regret for the rest of your life.
