The BE-attitudes

As we cruise into Thanksgiving Break, I'm pondering the question: To be or not to be?  The really cool thing about that Shakespearean inquiry is that the answer is totally up to us. It’s all about CHOICE!  There are so many things in life that we don't have much say about, but every day we get to choose how we want to BE regardless of the cards we’re dealt.

Here are some of the BE-attitudes I've been reflecting upon, things that we get to control, every day. These are gifts that keep on giving:

1.      Be love.  Be inspired by DecembeRadio's hauntingly-beautiful ballad. Caring is thinking with your heart and Kindness is a learned behavior. Be all three.  

2.   Be a problem solver.  Explore all of our options when there's a problem. Leave no stone unturned when you're looking for a solution.

3.   Be at peace.  I like the sound of that, don’t you? Do something every day to move - even if ever 
 so slightly - from chaos to calm. Yoga anyone?

4.   Be a good listener.  Practice good listening skills. Lean in, Make eye contact, and respond appropriately when someone’s sharing their story or asking a question.

5.   Be present. Be there for people, in the moment, right now.  You can NOT get this moment back. Ever.

6.   Be responsible.  Subscribe to this simply powerful touchstone: Be in the right place at the right time doing the right thing.

7.   Be a hard worker. Work ethic trumps talent; give your BEST effort in everything you do.

8.   Be sensitive. Put yourself in another's shoes, share their story, and experience empathy and compassion.

9.    Be respectful. Treat people today how you want them to treat you tomorrow.  It's G.O.L.D.E.N.

10.  Be a trustworthy friend. Do what you say you’re going to do so that people can count on you.

11.     Be emotionally and physically healthy. Eat the right things, drink plenty of water, exercise routinely, relax often, and pay close attention to your feelings so they don't overwhelm and get the best of you.

12.  Be someone’s hero. Ask yourself:  Whom can I serve today?  What makes my actions worthy of honor?

13.  Be grateful. Count your blessings and give thanks for each of them.  Why not join this guy in The Gratitude Dance!

14.  Be forgiving. Allow for mistakes and be willing to forgive. There's no greater gift than a little grace.

15.  Be a positive influence.  Uplift people with your words, a smile, and enthusiasm. Make your attitude contagious!

So there you have it, my 15 BE-attitudes, gifts that you get to keep as you give them away. What does your 
BE-attitude list look like?