Decide on someone inspirational to “follow.” This can be a spiritual leader (local or global), a columnist, a friend, your boss, etc. Educate yourself on what the person stands for or stood for and how his/her values align with your own. Follow the person on Twitter, Facebook, blogs, or pick up a biography and read up. You may find this an unexpected road to self-discovery.
In an electronic age, people are still inundated with holding on to papers. A receipt from the local convenient store for that coffee you bought this morning, an envelope that has been opened, a scrap with miscellaneous notes sits on a desk, etc. Set a goal today to find 10 pieces of any kind of paper around your house or office that you do not need any longer and get rid of it! If you are able, set up a container to put it in and recycle the contents. Set a weekly goal like a large bag of paper and then take to your nearest recycling center. Encourage others in your household to participate. You will be amazed over the realization that we hold on to so many unnecessary pieces of paper.
Because the world continues to become a more global society (in work and play), it is not a bad idea to learn a little bit about other cultures. Understanding even subtle differences can clarify the way we interpret others and the way they understand us. Have you ever felt “crowded” by someone who got very close to you while having a conversation? Were you ever put off by the way someone addressed or greeted you? Before you get too offended by someone of another culture or vice versa, try to realize there may be different cultural norms and practices in place. Negotiating an international business deal can be especially costly if you overreact to something unnecessarily. Take the time to provide yourself with a dose of cultural understanding.
Everyone knows what this day means: The first day of walking off that turkey dinner! If you resisted the temptation to overeat, try to encourage someone else to get up and take a walk today. Make a point of doing a little extra exercise; take the stairs instead of the elevator. Skip any snacks or the whipped cream on that specialty coffee. Remind yourself that this time of year does not signal an open invitation to indulgence. Get those walking shoes on.
If you didn’t celebrate Thanksgiving, then take a walk anyway. In fact, have a big lunch or dinner, and then walk it off!
Make a point of calling, texting, emailing, or visiting someone with a message of thanks today. Be sure to avoid a mass email; make it a personal and sincere note of gratitude to each individual. Mail a Thanksgiving card (yes, the handwritten kind!) to someone far away, or surprise someone with a call. Resolve to make every day one of giving thanks.