Life is a struggle, and that's just the way it's going to be. However, here are some guidelines I follow to help it go a little smoother.
1) Have a firm handshake.
This is one my grandpa taught me, and it really does make a difference. I can't tell you how many times I meet people, shake their hands, and then walked away from the encounter unimpressed and feeling a little awkward because they placed their limp and unwelcoming hands into mine. People appreciate someone with a solid handshake. When you present yourself this way, it gives off a confident and welcoming mood.
2) Learn to cook.
You should learn how to make at least one meal really well. It doesn't have to be fancy, but everyone needs to eat, and you shouldn't starve or get takeout every time you don't have someone cooking for you. Plus, who doesn't love someone who can cook?
3) Make something.
Do some woodworking, draw, write, cook, bake, make music, work on cars, sew something... The possibilities are endless. As well, a certain pride and satisfaction come with creating something from start to finish, working with your hands, or improving something.
4) Do what you love.
All of us have something we're passionate about. (Maybe you haven't found it yet, but that's okay, too.) When you find something, find a way to do it for a living, and then you never work a day in your life.
5) Learn from others.
Talk to people and listen to their stories and experiences. You learn so much from what others discovered along their journeys.
6) Look back only in reference.
Don't compare yourself to other people or what they have. You don't know their whole situations, and wishing you had something different doesn't make your life any easier. Be content with what you have and compare yourself only to how you were in the past. Set goals and work toward them. Are you moving towards where you want to be?
7) Move forward, and keep moving.
When comparing yourself to you in the past, ask yourself if you moved towards your goals since that time. If you're in the same place, or you're falling back towards where you don't want to be, take steps to keep yourself moving in the right direction. Standing still does no good. Keep growing, keep progressing, keep expanding yourself, and keep working for all your goals.
8) Be respectful and kind to everyone.
Everyone you meet has a story. They're complex and beautiful humans, just like you. Be kind and respectful, whether you meet the owner of the company you hope to work for, the janitor who works in the building, or a random person on the street.
9) Be selfless.
"Do to others as you would have them do to you." - Luke 6:31
Take this into account daily as you go out into the world. Hold the door for someone, offer to help load groceries for the mom with three small children, etc. It doesn't take much to make someone else's day. This goes for strangers and those you keep close in your life. Take a moment to think of others before you think only of yourself.
10) Give love.
Give of yourself, and show love to others. (This is especially difficult if you were hurt or had your heart broken.) The world can be a cold and empty place, but if you start with yourself and give love to those around you, it becomes a little brighter, and you see the difference it makes.
Give someone a compliment. Call your mom just to say, "I love you" and ask how her day is going. Comfort those around you hurting and/or take the time to help them.
All these things make life a little better for you and everyone you meet. Always pay it forward, and hopefully, each person will, too.
