As much as you might want to change someone else, you can’t.  That said, it’s important not to buy into the idea that we cannot change ourselves because we can. Take  in the whole lesson in that sentence.  This means that other people can change.  Out goes that whole “Zebra/Stripe” theory.

Living in sync with your value system is commendable (and don’t allow anyone else to convince you otherwise). Still,  it’s important to do a temperature check every so often to make sure that you’re not holding onto ideals and values that no longer fit your life. Doing so isn’t honorable, it’s inflexible and limiting.

Appreciate those men and women who come into your life but do your best not to  try and force them to stay longer than they want to. The tighter your grip, the harder they will try to pull away.

It’s not always easy to let go of toxic relationships (especially if you have invested a lot of time in them).  Still, sipping poison every day will slowly kill your chances of living your best life.

Treat those around you like valuable human beings.  Show a little compassion, listen intently, and give to those around you.  You don’t realize it now but those little gifts work like pebbles in the ocean and create ripples in the universe.

Do what you love as often as you can, even if you cannot do it full-time.

Clean up your mental and physical space.

Look in the mirror and get to know the person staring back at you. Instead of pointing out his or her flaws, give them props for making it this far.

Make time for those people who ask you to spend some time with them.

Live with honor.  There’s a lot to be said for a person who does what he or she says they will do with dignity.

Watch the sun rise. Play in the water. Walk barefoot in the sand. Eat a S’more. Marvel at a bonfire.

Realize that you have a choice in every situation.  You’re rarely at the mercy of someone else.

Hold yourself to a higher standard.

Understand that most of the time, it’s not personal.

Find reasons to laugh.

Cook something. Better yet, cook something for someone.

Find a way to give something to a stranger. Pay it forward a little.

Never miss out on something or someone wonderful because you’re ego convinced you to.

Always find a way to try something new.

Love with great enthusiasm (but know that love often includes pain).

Sit down and take it all in, just don’t allow yourself to get stuck.

Treat people as you would hope they would treat you, even when they don’t.

Look at flowers.  They are truly miracles of nature.

Remember all of the wonderful experiences you have had.

Instead of dwelling on what you don’t have, be grateful. You’re alive. Do something with your time here.