Look closely at the present you are constructing.
It should look like the future you are dreaming.
(Alice Walker)
Have you read any good books lately? I am currently reading two about nutrition: Secrets to a Healthy Metabolism by Maria Emmerich and It Starts With Food by Melissa Hartwig. Both are inspiring me to look closer at how my food choices impact my mood, energy, and happiness.
The choices we make impact us in every sphere of life. From the way we approach challenging situations and conflict, to how we spend our time and what we choose to eat. Our choices construct our present life, and they help build our future.
For today’s post, I am sharing highlights from some other influential books. This collection of Kindle Clippings focuses on the choices we make regarding acceptance, attitude, and action.
Find ease in acceptance
“Accept — then act. Whatever the present moment contains, accept it as if you had chosen it. Always work with it, not against it. Make it your friend and ally, not your enemy. This will miraculously transform your whole life.”
– The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
It can be difficult to accept certain situations. Things happen that are out of our immediate control. Rather than fight what is, try to find ease in acceptance. This idea also works when interacting with others, whether they are your friend or foe.
“Thus, when two opponents meet, the one without an enemy will surely triumph.”
– Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer
Claim ownership of your attitude
“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.”
– Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
It does not always feel like it, but we have the power to control our attitude. No matter what happens outside our mind, we have the ability to find solace, peace, and strength within. Try using a mantra to refresh your attitude and accept what is. These five from Eckhart Tolle are a great place to start.
Take action that is open and direct
“Be open and direct as you interact with everyone, and deal with an issue by going right to the heart of it without pretense or self-serving justifications.”
– The Tao of Joy Every Day by Derek Lin
Conflict is a natural part of life. Most of us are taught to avoid arguments and disagreements by brushing our concerns under the rug. This strategy does not always work, and often ends with emotions building up and bubbling over. The next time you are faced with an issue, try to accept what is, own your attitude, and be open about the situation.
If you enjoyed this post, consider adding the books mentioned to your library or Kindle. They have inspired us and we hope they inspire you!
Image via Death to the Stock Photo
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