Thoughts and feelings

We tend to take what we think quite seriously. Whether it can be backed up or not is of little concern. If we say it, then the matter has been settled.

Our knowledge is limited at best. With so many pieces of the puzzle missing, why guess what the picture is? Just wait for the truth to be revealed.

Two cents is really just a penny and some change. Will what you wish to say make anything better? If not, then it is not worth saying to begin with.

Often we let our feelings decide our actions. No serious decisions should be made according to one's mood. Emotions are notoriously unreliable.

People assert themselves to seem important. What does it matter to have the support of one's followers? Their approval changes nothing.

Voicing a thought does not make it so. No matter how strong the feeling, it could be wrong. Show you care and leave the grandstanding to others.

Sense of readiness

A lot of the frustrations we face are due to bad timing. This is not a cause for shame. Since we do not know everything, mistakes are bound to happen.

Some people have a better sense of this than others. It pays to be at the right place at the right time. If you cannot, then make sure what you do counts.

Those who are late have already lowered expectations. The results of this can be disastrous. Things get worse when others end up being affected.

We cannot be held responsible for our lack of foresight. Yet, a little forethought can save a lot of grief. Those who do not plan ahead do fall behind.

Understand that nothing goes according to plan. Be ready to adapt to changing circumstances. Some of the most productive thinking is done on the spot.

The attentive tend to have better timing. Being aware of what goes on around you gives a sense of readiness. A little preparation can go a long way.

Minor inconveniences

Often, the problems we face are just minor inconveniences. The earth is not shattered, nor the sky rent. Slight difficulties get blown out of proportion.

If we let things get to us, they will. When not maintained, one's calm is readily lost. It is paramount that we put all of our efforts into finding it again.

Count to ten, or backwards from a hundred. Do whatever it takes to contain your aggravation. Otherwise, a ripple can grow into a tidal wave.

Such matters are not worth the energy expended. Those who give in only succeed in making a mess. Their expectations are for others to clean it up.

Rage does not easily go back from whence it spewed. Cool down in order to prevent a meltdown. Unchecked anger will tend to put others in danger.

It is important to be able to relax. Be mindful of the least, but focus on what matters most. More mistakes are made when we forget our priorities.

Something to lose

When things are going well, be wary. Now that you have something to lose, it is vital to be careful. Or else, all that you have gained could be gone.

Do not take what you have for granted. It can always be taken away. Sadly, human beings tend to realize their blessings only when such are absent.

Gaining is not as hard as maintaining. Once matters start moving in a positive direction, keep them that way. Resist the temptation to rest and relax.

If you reach a goal, then set another. Contentment is a slow means to a dismal end. We must constantly struggle against the tendency to stop.

Expect that everything will fall apart. You will be more apt to see the dangers coming. It is easier to prevent problems, than to deal with them later.

Cherish your achievements, but do not rest on your laurels. Do not let a single milestone be your final destination. Know there is so much farther to go.

Music of action

It is good to be confident, but not overly so. Recognize what you do well without becoming arrogant. Otherwise, others will delight in your correction.

Accomplishment speaks so much louder than words. The proof in the pudding is there for all to see. Let the burden be upon them to prove otherwise.

Delighting in another's failings just brings yours to the surface. There will be things that we struggle with. How we handle them shows our character.

People are proud of the most shameful things. Instead of preening, they should be avoiding eye contact. Sometimes, it is better to eschew attention.

Refrain from using confidence as a weapon. It tends to paint the target on your back. Be assured, there will be plenty who are willing to take a shot.

Be confident in your capabilities, not in another's shortcomings. What you do speaks volumes. Let the music of action be the only words needed.

Choosing well

As adults, we are responsible for the choices we make. Bad decisions can lead to dire consequences. Yet if we choose well, the rewards could be great.

Deciding based on the outcome is a sure way to go down the wrong path. It will be hard to even find the way back. Do what is best, and all else follows.

We all make mistakes, but some make a habit of it. When it becomes a mess, clean it up. Then, take all steps needed to ensure it does not happen again.

Good decisions will not often be made with ease. Troubles may arise, along with doubts. That which is best does not always make one feel very good.

The results have a voice of their own. The longer the run, the more things come into focus. It is easier to deceive oneself for a season than a full cycle.

We cannot choose whether we will live or die. Our choices do influence what happens while we are here. Those who would do well should choose well.

Dealing with anything

It is best not to get our hopes up. Prepare for the worst and you shall not be disappointed. Whenever things work out it will be a pleasant surprise.

We should not dwell on the negative. There is nothing wrong with hoping for the best. Understand what we receive is so rarely what was desired.

If we are honest, we can deal with anything. Nothing good comes from deceiving yourself. The bad times become worse when you are not ready.

Those with great aspirations should brace themselves for a bumpy ride. Happy endings are not easy to come by. Expect to earn whatever you get.

There is satisfaction in overcoming adversities. We learn what our limitations are and push past them. Put forth the effort if you would see the reward. 

Hope is the planting of the seed. Much can happen to hinder its growth. Be prepared to face these obstacles, and then you can reap the harvest.