4. Practice Tough Love

The golden thread of a highly successful and meaningful life is self-discipline. Discipline allows you to do all those things you know in your heart you should do but never feel like doing. Without self-discipline, you will not set clear goals, manage your time effectively, treat people well, persist through the tough times, care for your health or think positive thoughts.

I call the habit of self-discipline “Tough Love” because getting tough with yourself is actually a very loving gesture. By being stricter with yourself, you will begin to live life more deliberately, on your own terms rather than simply reacting to life the way a leaf floating in a stream drifts according to the flow of the current on a particular day. As I teach in one of my seminars, the tougher you are on yourself, the easier life will be on you. The quality of your life ultimately is shaped by the quality of your choices and decisions, ones that range from the career you choose to pursue to the books you read, the time that you wake up every morning and the thoughts you think during the hours of your days. When you consistently flex your willpower by making those choices that you know are the right ones (rather than the easy ones), you take back control of your life. Effective, fulfilled people do not spend their time doing what is most convenient and comfortable. They have the courage to listen to their hearts and to do the wise thing. This habit is what makes them great.

“The successful person has the habit of doing the things failures don’t like to do,” remarked essayist and thinker E. M. Gray. “They don’t like doing them either, necessarily. But their disliking is subordinated to the strength of their purpose.” The nineteenth-century English writer Thomas Henry Huxley arrived at a similar conclusion, noting: “Perhaps the most valuable result of all education is the ability to make yourself do the thing you have to do, when it ought to be done, whether you like it or not.” And Aristotle made this point of wisdom in yet another way: “Whatever we learn to do, we learn by actually doing it: men come to be builders, for instance, by building, and harp players, by playing the harp. In the same way, by doing just acts we come to be just; by doing self-controlled acts, we come to be self-controlled; and by doing brave acts, we come to be brave.”

3. Maintain Your Perspective

2. Every Day, Be Kind to a Stranger

On his deathbed, Aldous Huxley reflected on his entire life’s learning and then summed it up in seven simple words: “Let us be kinder to one another.” All too often, we believe that in order to live a truly fulfilling life we must achieve some great act or grand feat that will put us on the front covers of magazines and newspapers. Nothing could be further from the truth. A meaningful life is made up of a series of daily acts of decency and kindness, which, ironically, add up to something truly great over the course of a lifetime.

Everyone who enters your life has a lesson to teach and a story to tell. Every person you pass during the moments that make up your days represents an opportunity to show a little more of the compassion and courtesy that define your humanity. Why not start being more of the person you truly are during your days and doing what you can to enrich the world around you? In my mind, if you make even one person smile during your day or brighten the mood of even one stranger, your day has been a worthwhile one. Kindness, quite simply, is the rent we must pay for the space we occupy on this planet.

Become more creative in the ways you show compassion to strangers. Paying the toll for the person in the car behind you, offering your seat on the subway to someone in need and being the first to say hello are great places to start. Recently, I received a letter from a reader of The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari who lives in Washington State. In it she wrote: “I have a practice of tithing to people who have helped me along my spiritual path. Please accept the enclosed check of $100 with my blessing and gratitude.” I quickly responded to her generous act by sending one of my audiotape programs in return so she received value for the gift she sent me. Her gesture was a great lesson in the importance of giving sincerely and from the heart.

1. Discover Your Calling

When I was growing up, my father said something to me I will never forget, “Son, when you were born, you cried while the world rejoiced. Live your life in such a way that when you die the world cries while you rejoice.” We live in an age when we have forgotten what life is all about. We can easily put a person on the Moon, but we have trouble walking across the street to meet a new neighbor. We can fire a missile across the world with pinpoint accuracy, but we have trouble keeping a date with our children to go to the library. We have e-mail, fax machines and digital phones so that we can stay connected and yet we live in a time where human beings have never been less connected. We have lost touch with our humanity. We have lost touch with our purpose. We have lost sight of the things that matter the most. 

And so, as you start this book, I respectfully ask you, Who will cry when you die? How many lives will you touch while you have the privilege to walk this planet? What impact will your life have on the generations that follow you? And what legacy will you leave behind after you have taken your last breath? One of the lessons I have learned in my own life is that if you don’t act on life, life has a habit of acting on you. The days slip into weeks, the weeks slip into months and the months slip into years. Pretty soon it’s all over and you are left with nothing more than a heart filled with regret over a life half lived. George Bernard Shaw was asked on his deathbed, “What would you do if you could live your life over again?” He reflected, then replied with a deep sigh: “I’d like to be the person I could have been but never was.” I’ve written this book so that this will never happen to you. 

As a professional speaker, I spend much of my work life delivering keynote addresses at conferences across North America, flying from city to city, sharing my insights on leadership in business and in life with many different people. Though they all come from diverse walks of life, their questions invariably center on the same things these days: How can I find greater meaning in my life? How can I make a lasting contribution through my work? and How can I simplify so that I can enjoy the journey of life before it is too late? 

My answer always begins the same way: Find your calling. I believe we all have special talents that are just waiting to be engaged in a worthy pursuit. We are all here for some unique purpose, some noble objective that will allow us to manifest our highest human potential while we, at the same time, add value to the lives around us. Finding your calling doesn’t mean you must leave the job you now have. It simply means you need to bring more of yourself into your work and focus on the things you do best. It means you have to stop waiting for other people to make the changes you desire and, as Mahatma Gandhi noted: “Be the change that you wish to see most in your world.” And once you do, your life will change.

How To Improve English By Reading Books

 

Step 1: Read slowly

Step 2: Take notes

Step 3: Search words online

Step 4: Pick words to practise

Investing in Your Health

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to neglect the importance of our health. We often prioritise work, family commitments, and social engagements, often at the expense of our own well-being. However, investing in your health is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Just as you would invest in financial assets to grow your wealth, investing in your health requires a strategic and intentional approach to maintain physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By prioritizing your health, you are investing in your overall quality of life, enhancing your energy levels, productivity, and resilience.

The Significance of Health Investment

Investing in your health is an ongoing commitment to holistic wellness, encompassing physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects. The benefits of investing in your health are multifaceted and can positively impact every area of your life:

• Enhanced Physical Health: Investing in your physical health reduces the risk of chronic diseases and promotes overall well-being. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are essential components of maintaining physical well-being.

• Improved Mental Well-being: Investing in your mental health promotes emotional stability, reduces stress and anxiety, and enhances cognitive function. Mindfulness practices, stress management techniques, and seeking professional help when needed are crucial for maintaining mental well-being.

• Increased Energy Levels: A healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, significantly boosts energy levels, allowing you to tackle daily tasks with vigour and enthusiasm.

• Greater Productivity: Investing in your health enhances your productivity and focus, allowing you to perform better at work and in your personal life. A healthy mind and body can tackle challenges more effectively and make sound decisions.

• Improved Resilience: A healthy lifestyle strengthens your resilience in the face of challenges and setbacks. By prioritising your well-being, you are better equipped to navigate life’s ups and downs and maintain a positive outlook.

• Enhanced Quality of Life: Investing in your health contributes to an overall better quality of life. When you feel physically and mentally well, you are more likely to enjoy life’s experiences, engage in activities you love, and maintain strong relationships.

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Strategies for Effective Health Investment

Investing in your health is a personalised journey that requires a holistic approach. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, as the specific strategies will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and lifestyle. However, some key strategies can serve as a guiding framework for your journey towards optimal health:

• Prioritize a Balanced Diet: Nourish your body with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of saturated and unhealthy fats.

• Embrace Regular Exercise: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week. Engage in strength training exercises at least twice a week.

• Ensure Adequate Sleep: Prioritize quality sleep by aiming for 7–8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. Establish a consistent sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoid screen time before bed.

• Manage Stress Effectively: Develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress, such as mindfulness practices, yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature. Seek professional help if stress becomes overwhelming or interferes with your daily life.

• Schedule Regular Check-ups: Maintain regular check-ups with your health care provider to monitor your health, address any concerns, and receive preventive screenings.

• Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption: If you smoke, quitting is one of the best decisions you can make for your health. Limit alcohol consumption to moderate amounts or avoid it altogether.

• Nurture Your Mental Well-being: Engage in activities that promote mental well-being, such as spending time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, and practicing gratitude. Seek professional help if you are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns.

• Seek Professional Guidance: Don’t hesitate to seek professional help from health care providers, mental health professionals, or nutritionists when needed. They can provide personalised guidance and support to address specific health concerns or achieve your wellness goals.

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Additional Tips for Holistic Wellness

In addition to the core strategies mentioned above, consider these additional tips for enhancing your overall health and well-being:

• Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine to reduce stress, enhance focus, and promote emotional balance.

• Seek Social Connections: Nurture strong relationships with family, friends, and supportive individuals. Social connection is essential for mental and emotional well-being.

• Engage in Meaningful Activities: Pursue activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Engaging in activities that align with your interests and passions can boost your overall well-being.

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Prioritise Self-Care

Incorporate self-care practices into your daily routine to nurture your physical and mental well-being. Self-care activities can include:

• Relaxing activities: Practicing yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

• Engaging in hobbies: Pursuing hobbies you enjoy, such as reading, painting, or playing music, can provide mental stimulation and stress relief.

• Spending time in nature: Immersing yourself in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost cognitive function.

• Engaging in physical activities you enjoy: Find forms of exercise that you find fun and engaging, such as dancing, swimming, or hiking.

• Prioritizing sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for physical and mental health. Aim for 7–8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night.

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Be Mindful of Your Environment

Your surroundings can significantly impact your health and well-being. Make conscious choices to create a supportive environment that promotes well-being:

• Organise your living space: A cluttered and disorganised environment can contribute to stress and anxiety. Declutter and organize your living space to create a sense of calm and order.

• Ensure adequate lighting: Exposure to natural light can boost mood and energy levels. Make sure your living and work space are well-lit, and spend time outdoors whenever possible.

• Create a relaxing atmosphere: Incorporate elements that promote relaxation into your surroundings, such as comfortable furniture, calming colours, and soothing scents.

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Investing in your health is a lifelong commitment to improving your overall well-being. By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can take proactive steps towards achieving and maintaining optimal physical, mental, and emotional health.

Remember, consistency is key. Small, consistent changes can make a significant impact over time. Prioritise your health, and you will reap the rewards in the form of increased energy, improved mood, and enhanced resilience in all areas of your life.

Personal Finance - Conclusion

Personal finance can be complex, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following the advice in this book, you can learn to manage your money effectively, save for your goals, and reach financial independence.

Here is a summary of the key takeaways from this book:

• Create a budget and track your spending. This will help you to understand where your money is going and to identify areas where you can cut back. There are many different budgeting methods available, so find one that works for you and stick to it.

• Set financial goals. What do you want to achieve with your money? Do you want to buy a house? Save for retirement? Start a business? Once you know your goals, you can start to develop a plan to reach them. Your financial goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.

• Automate your finances. Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings accounts and investment accounts. This will help you to save and invest money on a regular basis, even if you don't have time to think about it. You can also automate your bill payments to avoid late fees.

• Pay off debt. High-interest debt can eat into your budget and make it difficult to reach your financial goals. Focus on paying off high-interest debt first, such as credit card debt. There are a number of different debt repayment methods available, such as the snowball method and the avalanche method. Choose a method that works for you and stick to it.

• Invest for the future. Investing is one of the best ways to grow your money over time. Start by investing in low-cost index funds. Index funds track a specific market index, such as the S&P 500. This means that you can invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks with a single investment.

• Get professional help. If you need help managing your money or reaching your financial goals, consider working with a financial advisor. A financial advisor can help you to create a budget, set financial goals, develop a financial plan, and choose investments.

Here are some additional tips for managing your money effectively:

• Live below your means. This means spending less money than you earn. One way to live below your means is to create a budget and stick to it. Another way is to avoid impulse purchases. When you see something you want, take 24 hours to think about it before you buy it.

• Make saving a priority. Set aside a portion of your income each month for savings. Even if you can only save a small amount each month, it will add up over time. Aim to save at least 20% of your income each month.

• Avoid impulse purchases. Take your time before making any major purchases. When you see something you want, ask yourself if you really need it. If you can wait, wait. You may be surprised to find that you don't need the item after all.

• Review your finances regularly. This will help you to stay on track and to make adjustments as needed. Review your budget at least once a month and your financial plan at least once a year.

Personal finance is a journey, not a destination. There will be ups and downs along the way. But by following the advice in this book, you can set yourself up for financial success.

Remember, even small steps can make a big difference in the long run.