This headline may be somewhat cliché for this time of year, but the facets of the possibilities of a “new you” go far beyond cosmetic makeovers. Although a great jumping off point may indeed be a commitment to fitness and ditching the mullet, the person you are on the inside may be ready for a little renovating.
Four great ways to improve ourselves and our relationships with others uses the acronym CARE.
Connect – Reach out to others by volunteering. There are so many opportunities to make a difference in someone’s life and, by doing so, we bring fulfillment into our own. Become a coach, coordinate a fundraiser, buy lunch for the person behind you in the drive through, or just be willing to get to know the person in the grocery line. You may be surprised at what you have in common!
Accept – Understand others right where they are. Judging someone based on their appearance, social status or financial ability is counterproductive to both them and yourself. Your opinion is usually not as welcome as a genuine smile, a meaningful conversation or a helping hand.
Respond – Make a difference for yourself and friends by planning a get-together, running an errand for a someone or taking the kids while they take a break. When we address a person’s need, our needs are also met in the long run. Karma, as they say, is a blessing!
Encourage – Everyone has a bad day, and the best way to help is by reminding our friends and ourselves of the blessings we DO have. The glass half-empty is an attitude that many struggle with when the going gets rough. Be the friend who reminds others just what you appreciate about them, and why you’re happy to have their presence in your life.
Happy New Year!! Enjoy 2014 and every aspect of positive change it holds in store for you and your family!