Wednesday, April 15, 2015

Are you one of the 5%?

What are your thoughts and reflections on last week’s blog about the six basic needs suggested by Tony Robbins? Did anyone get the book, Money Master the Game?  Did you read at least the first 80 pages?  I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts.

Tony Robbins’ refers to certainty, taking risks, needing variety, love, growth, and that life is about contributing.  Why is it then that we encounter many challenges throughout our day where we may feel, as an individual, others don’t value who we are.  We are trying to live our lives with gratitude, we are challenging ourselves to learn and grow, we’re trying to improve things at work, at home, but it feels like the more we are moving ahead in our lives the more people are surrounding us with toxic negativity and trying to block our path.  It feels like others are intimidated by who we are, what we stand for and our intentions are often misinterpreted.  It becomes apparent that others just want us to conform, not make waves, and they want us to be like everyone else.  Don’t “rock the boat.”  When we “rock the boat” by our questions, our suggestions to do things differently than the status quo others feel their authority is being challenged, change is uncomfortable and often times feared etc.  People are into routines and “we've always done it ‘that’ way.”  Conflicts may arise simply by asking a question to a co-worker that escalates  into a huge argument.  Fingers are pointed, accusations of being selfish, along with angry words being thrown out. It’s now attack mode versus any type of discussion.  What about the person who is constantly listing all the things they do, they’re so busy, and no one works as hard as they do without any recognition of others who are also busy and have a lot on their plate? It doesn't seem to matter what we say or what we do, we can’t do anything right and it’s always our fault. 

My question is, “How do we read books about gratitude, learn and grow as a person, be willing to change, do something different, take risks, and be true to ourselves when we’re surrounded by others who only want to pull us down?”  “How do we move forward with our own expectations, dreams, goals, and creativity?”  What’s in our control?  What actions can we take?  Is there someone who can be a confidant, a supporter, a mentor, an encourager?  Someone who will be there through “thick and thin” yet also be honest with feedback and positive solutions?  How do we acknowledge that everyone’s judgment is just that…theirs.  We all see things from our own perspective.  The problem comes when it affects our own ability to do our job effectively, to create healthy relationships with our family members, or co-workers.  We may even find ourselves questioning ourselves.  What did we do to deserve this treatment? 

When I was younger I tried to please everyone, I didn't want to “rock the boat” and cause problems.  I was fortunate to have Jon supporting me and helping me understand that I had to be true to myself.  The only thing that was in my control was for me to be the best I could be as a teacher, a mother, a wife, a daughter etc. without arrogance, self-righteousness, or bragging. If my actions are pure and others are uncomfortable or intimidated so be it.  I’m only in control of me.  I had to learn to pick my battles and decide what was important enough that I couldn't let myself be intimidated by threats name calling, falsehoods etc.  Remember, only 5% of the population will “step out” and seek their own uniqueness, pursue their passion, not be motivated by others’ expectations but by their own expectations.  The 5% are also the people who are consistently moving forward, they don’t give up when the times are tough, they don’t give in because it’s easier than bucking the system. 

What can we do to be all that we can be while at the same time acknowledge there are people in our path who want to see us fail, want to see us conform, want to see us do what they think we should do etc. etc.?  First, let go of the little things and there are a lot of little things. It’s a waste of your time and energy.   Second, whenever possible, take the high road and do not bring yourself to their level.  Third, whenever possible sincerely compliment, say thank you, and let people know you appreciate what they do no matter how small.  Don’t expect anything in return.  By doing these things, you will feel good and the more you do it the easier it gets.  You might be surprised that others will begin to respond but that’s not why you’re doing it.  You’re doing it because it’s the right thing to do according to the six needs for your life.  Fourth, “don’t get in a pissing contest with a skunk,” as you will never win.  (That’s one of Jon’s favorite sayings.)  Fifth, find someone who will give you honest feedback, suggestions, and will allow you to vent.  We all need to vent, get things out, but then it’s time to let it go and move on. Six, if a conflict is getting out of hand, it’s not an appropriate time etc. let the person know you are going to walk away, and you’ll be ready to discuss the issue when everyone is calm.  Then you have to do what you said…walk away.  My final suggestion is to have something positive to listen to or to read EACH day. Turn off the TV for 15, 20 or 30 minutes to fill your head with something other than the negative “voices.”  There are many great CD’s you can download.  Listen to your breathing and just relax.  Calm your mind and body whether there’s conflict or not, it’s a special TLC time for yourself.  I think you will find that you will approach the rest of the day, the next day, the next week with a different perspective. 

Tony Robbins says, “The ultimate significance in life comes not from something external but from something internal.  It comes from a sense of esteem for ourselves, which is not something we can get from someone else.  People can tell you you’re beautiful , smart, the best, or they can tell you that you’re the most horrible human being on earth – but what matters is what YOU think about yourself.”  “The fastest way to feel connection, a sense of how significant your life is, a deep sense of certainty and variety, and put yourself in a state where you can give to others, is to find a way each day to appreciate more and expect less.” 

I wish you a healthy mindset of the 5%!! 




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