Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Taxi Driver picks up old woman, and the ride changes his life forever
Polish artist illustrates his fight against depression in whimsical dark paintings
A Guide To Erasing Bad Habits From Your Life
Breaking Bad Habits Once And For All.
Erasing bad habits can be very hard sometimes, especially if you do not know the right way to do so.
I wrote this post from through the lens of addiction because it is so prevalent in our society and it’s one of my primary treatment focuses with my clients.
I’ve seen how many people on the road to success get sabotaged by the false promises of drugs and alcohol. It’s can be tough when managing a high-stress, high-achieving life to not give in to insecurities or emotional struggles that lead to sabotaging behaviors.
When I talk about “bad habits” I focus on an alcoholic example, but this could easily be emotional eating, gaming, compulsive shopping, sexual promiscuity, or any other self-sabotaging behavior.
Making and Breaking Habits go Hand-in-Hand
Making and breaking habits are often tied together in how our mind works. We often break one habit by initiating another. For instance, quitting smoking is usually replaced by some other stress-reducing behavior like implementing a daily walking routine.
There is varied data on how long it takes to initiate a new habit or break one. There is research demonstrating evidence for it taking a few weeks to almost a year to change habitual behavior. It all depends on how quickly it integrates into our routine and becomes “automatic” – like pouring your first cup of coffee or brushing your teeth in the morning.
Current and popular research on habit formation points to a repetition of the behavior as well as having a cue as the antecedents to change. Looking at the implementation of a walking routine, the cue may be the time of day – i.e. upon waking up, you would get dressed an out the door within 30 minutes. If you practiced that daily, at some point you wouldn’t have to remind yourself; you would just wake and get ready to go for your walk.
How do we know a habit is bad for us?
We’ve known for many decades about the positive and negative reinforcement loops of engaging in behavior repetitively (think Pavlov’s dogs). Lately, a more recent, but still decades-old study is making the rounds on the internet: the Rat Park study of addiction in the 1970’s. In that study, rats were socially isolated and provided a steady stream of opiates to calm their assumed distress at living an isolated life.
At a later point in time, the rats were provided a community of other rats to mingle with. They were also still provided the option of numbing themselves with the opiates, but they found that when the rats were socially supported they did not choose the drug.
That leads to the question at hand: How do we know a habit is bad for us? When something reinforces us positively, we continue to do it.
It has been assumed that when the rats were socially isolated, they engaged in the continued opiate use because it made their rat life more tolerable. Then, when they had other rats to play with, they no longer needed the pharmacological experience since they were now getting other positive benefits from playing with their park pals.
When we explore drug abuse and reinforcement in humans, the early stage of drug and alcohol use indeed does give the user a positive effect.
The initial “positive” effects of using drugs/alcohol are:
- The user often becomes more socially outgoing
- When one is lonely, the drugs can numb the emotions
- Using substances helps one to “forget their troubles”
- The user can often get a false boost in self-esteem
Although these are short-lived “benefits” the person who experienced them will often seek to repeat that feeling or experience, leading to repetitive engagement in that behavior. So we end up with a cue of, say, feeling insecure before a party leading to a repeated behavior of drinking before going to social events.
Because the emotional payoff can be so strong, it becomes easy to overlook the early instances of “negative reinforcement” that occurs (i.e. hangovers, sexual promiscuity) and just continue engaging in the behavior we believe will give us a positive effect.
Of course, as use continues, the positive effects become over-shadowed by the negative effects, but the user becomes both psychologically and physiologically dependent on them so they continue to use.
There is something to be said about the negative effects that keep one in that feedback loop as well. Many addicts start to get comfortable in the role of being the one that can’t be relied upon or needing to be taken care of.
When they start living in that role, their loved ones often stop putting responsibilities on them or see them as helpless due to the addiction. Their loved ones may be frustrated with them, but again, the positives outweigh the negative even when the “positive” is a ‘negative”.
This starts to get convoluted and confusing, but to understand it better think of it this way: Joe began drinking because he was frustrated that he was always working so hard and felt his wife should help out more financially.
Over time, Joe became less functional and his wife ended up having to get a better paying job in order to support the family because Joe was no longer able to do it because of his drinking. You see, Joe got exactly what he wanted, but it was at the expense of his self-worth and his marriage. No one would ever recommend this as a way to get your emotional needs met.
In the end, a habit is bad for us if it affects the quality of our daily life. For as much as Joe got what he wanted, his life was no longer the same and had dramatically taken a turn for the worse, emotionally, physically and financially.
The reinforcement loop needs to be broken so that Joe starts to learn more effective ways to get his emotional needs met (i.e. communicating with his wife instead of drinking to numb his emotions).
The Role Rewards Play in Breaking Bad Habits
For as much as we need a strong cue and repetition to form new habits, we also need a good dose of positive rewards on the flip side when breaking bad habits. Let’s look at Joe and his alcoholism.
In the early stage of breaking his habit, Joe will need a hefty dose of positive reinforcement to outweigh the alcohol addiction because his addicted mind will be screaming loudly at him to not change his behavior.
Some rewards that might benefit Joe are:
- His wife begins to give him some responsibility back, improving his sense of self-worth and importance in the family
- His boss gives him some kudos for showing up for work on time consistently,
- His kids start spending more time with him.
- His wife starts to listen to him when she sees that he wants to participate in the family again.
These rewards also become automatic and expected. Joe becomes motivated to stay sober because he realizes he has a sense of purpose in his family, his wife listens when he talks about his needs and his kids want to be around him. Joe has a better chance at maintaining his behavior change as long as he can still feel the reward.
5 Ways to Avoid Bad Habits
1.) Listen to your emotional needs – You may be a high-achieving, driven person who’s always on the go! Go! GO! Even you need a break sometimes.
Listen to your mind and body and know when to take a day (or 2 or 3) off. You and the people you are working for will appreciate that you are the best version of you, rather than a tired, bitter, over-worked one.
2.) Ask for help when you need it – Just like Joe who didn’t tell his wife he needed help because he expected her to “just know” or see that he was distressed, we can’t assume our partners can read our minds. Somewhere along the route to achievement, it seems we get instilled with the idea that asking for help is a sign of weakness and the idea of acting on the impulse gets over-shadowed by shame, guilt or pride.
Don’t make Joe’s mistake and expect your partner to read your mind. No matter how much your partner loves you or how well your business partner knows you, no one is a mind-reader (and you can’t be and at them for not meeting your needs if you don’t tell them what they are).
3.) Don’t listen to that negative voice in your head – I know you know what I’m talking about. You can be on a great path to success or you can already have reached heights you never dreamed of, and yet, that little voice in the back of your mind comes creeping around the corner to tell you “you’re not good enough” or “it’s not going to last” or “everyone’s going to find out you are just faking it”.
CUT. IT. OUT! At the very first inkling of that voice, pull yourself out of your head – engage in something that brings you into focus in your present environment: notice the sounds around you, make eye contact with someone, re-engage in conversation with someone. What if you’re all alone in a silent room (ala bedtime)?
Tell yourself something different – tell yourself the TRUTH! You are competent! You are exactly who others think you are! You don’t have time to let negative thoughts get you down and you definitely don’t have time to have them lead to sabotaging bad habits.
4.) Do something each week that is just for you with no goal attached to it – For me, exercise keeps me sane, for others, it’s drawing, knitting, skating, singing, playing in a band, reading, cooking or any number of other things that just speak to one’s soul and lets you know that no matter how busy you think you are, there is always a few hours to be in touch with what fuels your spirit.
5.) Stay socially engaged – Just like the rats in the Rat Park study, we need connection with others. Staying socially engaged allows us the freedom to express ourselves and be heard by others, gives us a sense of community when our lives might otherwise feel isolated, and, of course, one of the biggest factors in self-sabotaging behavior and bad habits seems to be spurred by a sense of not feeling like we belong.
We need to feel like we belong. Especially in the case of drug and alcohol abuse we know one of the most prevalent factors in achieving and maintaining sobriety is when one has a sense of community. Try it – Next time you’re feeling alone, reach out to someone you haven’t talked to in a while – I bet you’ll both feel better for it.
The post A Guide To Erasing Bad Habits From Your Life appeared first on Everyday Power Blog.
30 Rihanna quotes about living your best life
Looking for inspirational Rihanna quotes? In this post, we’ve gathered some great quotes from the singer about living your best life. Enjoy!
Robyn Rihanna Fenty, known to the world simply as Rihanna, is a Barbadian singer, songwriter, and actress. She is known for hit songs such as “Unfaithful,” “Umbrella,” “Work,” “Take a Bow,” “Diamonds” and “We Found Love.” With over 250 million records sold worldwide, Rihanna is one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Rihanna was born on February 20, 1988, on the Caribbean island of Barbados. Although her childhood was affected by her father’s drug addiction and her parents’ marital problems, she got an opportunity to move to the U.S. at age 16 and never looked back.
In August 2005, a few months after signing a recording contract with Def Jam Recordings, she released her debut album, Music of the Sun, which reached No. 10 on the Billboard albums chart. Since then, she’s gone on to receive numerous awards and accolades, including an astonishing 9 Grammy Awards and 12 Billboard Music Awards. Besides, in 2012, Time magazine had her on their annual list of the most influential people in the world while Forbes ranked her the fourth most powerful celebrity.
As a pop icon of today’s music, Rihanna has clearly managed to tap into her Everyday Power and we can all learn a lesson or two from her about living life to the fullest.
In that respect, below are some great Rihanna quotes about living your best life.
Rihanna quotes about living your best life
1.) “I don’t do things for the response or for the controversy. I just live my life.” – Rihanna
2.) “If you don’t live your life, then who will?” – Rihanna
3.) “I’m really looking forward to seeing what life brings to me.”– Rihanna
4.) “Don’t hide from who you are.” – Rihanna
5.) “Let go of the things that make you feel dead! Life is worth living!” – Rihanna
6.) “Ask God for forgiveness, and leave your regrets in the past.” – Rihanna
7.) “It’s only up from here, no downward spiral.” – Rihanna
8.) “It’s nice to look back on your life and see things as lessons, and not regrets.” – Rihanna
9.) “I’m crazy, and I don’t pretend to be anything else.” – Rihanna
10.) “Because tomorrow I’m still going to be the same person. I’m still going to do what I want to do.” – Rihanna
11.) “I play by my own rules so please think twice before you step into my life.” – Rihanna
Rihanna quotes to inspire you to live a happy life
12.) “When I see myself as an old woman, I just think about being happy. And hopefully, I’ll still be fly.” – Rihanna
13.) “I am happy and I’m single.” – Rihanna
14.) “I think a lot of people are afraid of being happy because of what others might think.” – Rihanna
15.) “The minute you learn to love yourself you won’t want to be anyone else.” — Rihanna
16.) “Now I let my guard down and I’m more comfortable just being myself. That’s exactly what I want to be.” —Rihanna
17.) “For the first time, I don’t want to get rid of the curves. My body is comfortable, it’s not unhealthy, so I’m going to rock with it.” — Rihanna
18.) “I’m gonna look back on my life and say that I enjoyed it and I lived for me.” — Rihanna
19.) “It’s important for me to know who I am. There’s no way for people to know me.” — Rihanna
20.) “I believe everybody’s an individual. You can’t judge someone based on someone else’s actions.” — Rihanna
21.) “I’m just me. I don’t feel a reason to change.” — Rihanna
Other inspirational Rihanna quotes
22.) “I could never identify with that word, ‘weak.'” — Rihanna
23.) “Keep your eyes on the finish line and not on the turmoil around you.”— Rihanna
24.) “I always believed that when you follow your heart or your gut, when you really follow the things that feel great to you, you can never lose, because settling is the worst feeling in the world.” — Rihanna
25.) “All you need to do is help one person, expecting nothing in return. To me, that is a humanitarian.” — Rihanna
26.) “I used to feel guilty about taking personal time, but I also think I never met someone who was worth it before.” — Rihanna
27.) “I never know what day it is. Never, ever, ever.” — Rihanna
28.) “They’re gonna keep knocking away until all this comes crashing down. But I’m not gonna ever crash. I’m in control.” — Rihanna
29.) “I try my best to avoid the sharks of life, but I have had my share of experiences with them, and in those cases I just have to handle them accordingly. But I do not swim with sharks … sharks swim with sharks.” — Rihanna
30.) “The way I dress depends on how I feel. I never have to psych myself up. Usually it just feels like it works.” — Rihanna
What other Rihanna quotes would you add to the list?
Despite coming from a humble background, Rihanna has managed to rise to the top of her game. She is recognized as a pop icon of today’s music and is often characterized as a successful entrepreneur, singer and fashion idol.
Hopefully, these words from the her have taught you a lesson or two about living your best life.
Which of these Rihanna quotes was your favorite? Do you have any other inspirational quotes from the singer to share with us? Tell us in the comment section below. We would love to hear all about it.
The post 30 Rihanna quotes about living your best life appeared first on Everyday Power Blog.
Loyal dog helps disabled owner get around by pushing his wheelchair
After years of asking, little boy finally gets a baby brother and the photos will melt your heart
Kid solves three Rubik cubes in record time – while juggling them in the air!
A Guide To Erasing Bad Habits From Your Life
Breaking Bad Habits Once And For All.
Erasing bad habits can be very hard sometimes, especially if you do not know the right way to do so.
I wrote this post from through the lens of addiction because it is so prevalent in our society and it’s one of my primary treatment focuses with my clients.
I’ve seen how many people on the road to success get sabotaged by the false promises of drugs and alcohol. It’s can be tough when managing a high-stress, high-achieving life to not give in to insecurities or emotional struggles that lead to sabotaging behaviors.
When I talk about “bad habits” I focus on an alcoholic example, but this could easily be emotional eating, gaming, compulsive shopping, sexual promiscuity, or any other self-sabotaging behavior.
Making and Breaking Habits go Hand-in-Hand
Making and breaking habits are often tied together in how our mind works. We often break one habit by initiating another. For instance, quitting smoking is usually replaced by some other stress-reducing behavior like implementing a daily walking routine.
There is varied data on how long it takes to initiate a new habit or break one. There is research demonstrating evidence for it taking a few weeks to almost a year to change habitual behavior. It all depends on how quickly it integrates into our routine and becomes “automatic” – like pouring your first cup of coffee or brushing your teeth in the morning.
Current and popular research on habit formation points to a repetition of the behavior as well as having a cue as the antecedents to change. Looking at the implementation of a walking routine, the cue may be the time of day – i.e. upon waking up, you would get dressed an out the door within 30 minutes. If you practiced that daily, at some point you wouldn’t have to remind yourself; you would just wake and get ready to go for your walk.
How do we know a habit is bad for us?
We’ve known for many decades about the positive and negative reinforcement loops of engaging in behavior repetitively (think Pavlov’s dogs). Lately, a more recent, but still decades-old study is making the rounds on the internet: the Rat Park study of addiction in the 1970’s. In that study, rats were socially isolated and provided a steady stream of opiates to calm their assumed distress at living an isolated life.
At a later point in time, the rats were provided a community of other rats to mingle with. They were also still provided the option of numbing themselves with the opiates, but they found that when the rats were socially supported they did not choose the drug.
That leads to the question at hand: How do we know a habit is bad for us? When something reinforces us positively, we continue to do it.
It has been assumed that when the rats were socially isolated, they engaged in the continued opiate use because it made their rat life more tolerable. Then, when they had other rats to play with, they no longer needed the pharmacological experience since they were now getting other positive benefits from playing with their park pals.
When we explore drug abuse and reinforcement in humans, the early stage of drug and alcohol use indeed does give the user a positive effect.
The initial “positive” effects of using drugs/alcohol are:
- The user often becomes more socially outgoing
- When one is lonely, the drugs can numb the emotions
- Using substances helps one to “forget their troubles”
- The user can often get a false boost in self-esteem
Although these are short-lived “benefits” the person who experienced them will often seek to repeat that feeling or experience, leading to repetitive engagement in that behavior. So we end up with a cue of, say, feeling insecure before a party leading to a repeated behavior of drinking before going to social events.
Because the emotional payoff can be so strong, it becomes easy to overlook the early instances of “negative reinforcement” that occurs (i.e. hangovers, sexual promiscuity) and just continue engaging in the behavior we believe will give us a positive effect.
Of course, as use continues, the positive effects become over-shadowed by the negative effects, but the user becomes both psychologically and physiologically dependent on them so they continue to use.
There is something to be said about the negative effects that keep one in that feedback loop as well. Many addicts start to get comfortable in the role of being the one that can’t be relied upon or needing to be taken care of.
When they start living in that role, their loved ones often stop putting responsibilities on them or see them as helpless due to the addiction. Their loved ones may be frustrated with them, but again, the positives outweigh the negative even when the “positive” is a ‘negative”.
This starts to get convoluted and confusing, but to understand it better think of it this way: Joe began drinking because he was frustrated that he was always working so hard and felt his wife should help out more financially.
Over time, Joe became less functional and his wife ended up having to get a better paying job in order to support the family because Joe was no longer able to do it because of his drinking. You see, Joe got exactly what he wanted, but it was at the expense of his self-worth and his marriage. No one would ever recommend this as a way to get your emotional needs met.
In the end, a habit is bad for us if it affects the quality of our daily life. For as much as Joe got what he wanted, his life was no longer the same and had dramatically taken a turn for the worse, emotionally, physically and financially.
The reinforcement loop needs to be broken so that Joe starts to learn more effective ways to get his emotional needs met (i.e. communicating with his wife instead of drinking to numb his emotions).
The Role Rewards Play in Breaking Bad Habits
For as much as we need a strong cue and repetition to form new habits, we also need a good dose of positive rewards on the flip side when breaking bad habits. Let’s look at Joe and his alcoholism.
In the early stage of breaking his habit, Joe will need a hefty dose of positive reinforcement to outweigh the alcohol addiction because his addicted mind will be screaming loudly at him to not change his behavior.
Some rewards that might benefit Joe are:
- His wife begins to give him some responsibility back, improving his sense of self-worth and importance in the family
- His boss gives him some kudos for showing up for work on time consistently,
- His kids start spending more time with him.
- His wife starts to listen to him when she sees that he wants to participate in the family again.
These rewards also become automatic and expected. Joe becomes motivated to stay sober because he realizes he has a sense of purpose in his family, his wife listens when he talks about his needs and his kids want to be around him. Joe has a better chance at maintaining his behavior change as long as he can still feel the reward.
5 Ways to Avoid Bad Habits
1.) Listen to your emotional needs – You may be a high-achieving, driven person who’s always on the go! Go! GO! Even you need a break sometimes.
Listen to your mind and body and know when to take a day (or 2 or 3) off. You and the people you are working for will appreciate that you are the best version of you, rather than a tired, bitter, over-worked one.
2.) Ask for help when you need it – Just like Joe who didn’t tell his wife he needed help because he expected her to “just know” or see that he was distressed, we can’t assume our partners can read our minds. Somewhere along the route to achievement, it seems we get instilled with the idea that asking for help is a sign of weakness and the idea of acting on the impulse gets over-shadowed by shame, guilt or pride.
Don’t make Joe’s mistake and expect your partner to read your mind. No matter how much your partner loves you or how well your business partner knows you, no one is a mind-reader (and you can’t be and at them for not meeting your needs if you don’t tell them what they are).
3.) Don’t listen to that negative voice in your head – I know you know what I’m talking about. You can be on a great path to success or you can already have reached heights you never dreamed of, and yet, that little voice in the back of your mind comes creeping around the corner to tell you “you’re not good enough” or “it’s not going to last” or “everyone’s going to find out you are just faking it”.
CUT. IT. OUT! At the very first inkling of that voice, pull yourself out of your head – engage in something that brings you into focus in your present environment: notice the sounds around you, make eye contact with someone, re-engage in conversation with someone. What if you’re all alone in a silent room (ala bedtime)?
Tell yourself something different – tell yourself the TRUTH! You are competent! You are exactly who others think you are! You don’t have time to let negative thoughts get you down and you definitely don’t have time to have them lead to sabotaging bad habits.
4.) Do something each week that is just for you with no goal attached to it – For me, exercise keeps me sane, for others, it’s drawing, knitting, skating, singing, playing in a band, reading, cooking or any number of other things that just speak to one’s soul and lets you know that no matter how busy you think you are, there is always a few hours to be in touch with what fuels your spirit.
5.) Stay socially engaged – Just like the rats in the Rat Park study, we need connection with others. Staying socially engaged allows us the freedom to express ourselves and be heard by others, gives us a sense of community when our lives might otherwise feel isolated, and, of course, one of the biggest factors in self-sabotaging behavior and bad habits seems to be spurred by a sense of not feeling like we belong.
We need to feel like we belong. Especially in the case of drug and alcohol abuse we know one of the most prevalent factors in achieving and maintaining sobriety is when one has a sense of community. Try it – Next time you’re feeling alone, reach out to someone you haven’t talked to in a while – I bet you’ll both feel better for it.
The post A Guide To Erasing Bad Habits From Your Life appeared first on Everyday Power Blog.
50 Lao Tzu quotes on life, love and happiness
Our latest collection of Lao Tzu quotes on Everyday Power Blog. Enjoy!
Lao Tzu was an ancient Chinese philosopher and writer who’s believed to be the author of the Tao Te Ching (a collection of sayings describing the principal Taoist teachings), and the father of Chinese Taoism (a philosophy that advocates living a simple life.) Also known as Laozi, Lao Tzu existed in the 6th century B.C and is considered a central figure in Chinese culture.
Although very little is known about his life, Lao Tzu’s teachings have been passed down through the centuries and have influenced many different people, regardless of culture.
Lao Tzu’s timeless wisdom can teach us a lot about life and maximizing our Everyday Power.
In that regard, below are some amazing Lao Tzu quotes to instill his timeless wisdom and inspire you to be the best you can be.
Lao Tzu quotes on life
1.) “Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them – that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” – Lao Tzu
2.) “If you correct your mind, the rest of your life will fall into place.” – Lao Tzu
3.) “Care about what other people think and you will always be their prisoner.”- Lao Tzu
4.) “Life and death are one thread, the same line viewed from different sides.” – Lao Tzu
5.) “The truth is not always beautiful, nor beautiful words the truth.” ― Lao Tzu
6.) “Who acts in stillness finds stillness in his life.” ― Lao Tzu
7.) “I have just three things to teach: simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures.” ― ― Lao Tzu
8.) “Mastering others is strength. Mastering yourself is true power.” ― Lao Tzu
9.) “If you realize that all things change, there is nothing you will try to hold on to. If you are not afraid of dying, there is nothing you cannot achieve.” ― Lao Tzu
10.) “New beginnings are often disguised as painful endings.” ― Lao Tzu
Lao Tzu quotes about love and happiness
11.) “Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” ― Lao Tzu
12.) “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” ― Lao Tzu
13.) “He who is contented is rich.” ― Lao Tzu
14.) “By letting it go it all gets done. The world is won by those who let it go. But when you try and try. The world is beyond the winning.”― Lao Tzu
15.) “Love is a decision. Not an emotion.” ― Lao Tzu
16.) “If you are depressed you are living in the past. If you are anxious you are living in the future. If you are at peace you are living in the present.” ― Lao Tzu
17.) “Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.” ― Lao Tzu
18.) “Health is the greatest possession. Contentment is the greatest treasure. Confidence is the greatest friend. Non-being is the greatest joy.” ― Lao Tzu
19.) “When you are content to be simply yourself and don’t compare or compete, everyone will respect you.” ― Lao Tzu
20.) “Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.” ― Lao Tzu
Lao Tzu quotes to inspire greatness
21.) “A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.”― Lao Tzu
22.) “A man with outward courage dares to die: a man with inner courage dares to live.” ― Lao Tzu
23.) “When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.” ― Lao Tzu
24.) “For the wise man looks into space and he knows there is no limited dimensions.” ― Lao Tzu
25.) “Time is a created thing. To say “I don’t have time,” is like saying, “I don’t want to.” ― Lao Tzu
26.) “At the center of your being you have the answer; you know who you are and you know what you want.” ― Lao Tzu
27.) “The key to growth is the introduction of higher dimensions of consciousness into our awareness.” ― Lao Tzu
28.) “The key to growth is the introduction of higher dimensions of consciousness into our awareness.” – Lao Tzu
29.) “If you would take, you must first give, this is the beginning of intelligence.” – Lao Tzu
30.) “Surrender your self-interest. Love others as much as you love yourself. Then you can be entrusted with all things under heaven.” – Lao Tzu
Lao Tzu quotes that are full of wisdom
31.) “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” – Lao Tzu
32.) “Silence is a source of great strength.” – Lao Tzu
33.) “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” – Lao Tzu
34.) “Those who know do not speak. Those who speak do not know.” ― Lao Tzu
35.) “The words of truth are always paradoxical” – Lao Tzu
36.) “Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is Enlightenment.” – Lao Tzu
37.) “If you try to change it, you will ruin it. Try to hold it, and you will lose it.” – Lao Tzu
38.) “If you want to know me look inside your heart.” – Lao Tzu
39.) “Doing nothing is better than being busy doing nothing.” – Lao Tzu
40.) “When the student is ready the teacher will appear. When the student is truly ready… The teacher will Disappear.” – Lao Tzu
Other inspirational Lao Tzu quotes
41.) “A good traveler has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving.” – Lao Tzu
42.) “All streams flow to the sea because it is lower than they are. Humility gives it its power.” – Lao Tzu
43.) “Do the difficult things while they are easy and do the great things while they are small.” – Lao Tzu
44.) “It is better to do one’s own duty, however defective it may be, than to follow the duty of another, however well one may perform it. He who does his duty as his own nature reveals it, never sins.” – Lao Tzu
45.) “The best fighter is never angry.” – Lao Tzu
46.) “Do you have the patience to wait till your mud settles and the water is clear? Can you remain unmoving till the right action arises by itself?” – Lao Tzu
47.) “Knowledge is a treasure, but practice is the key to it.” – Lao Tzu
48.) “There is no greater danger than underestimating your opponent.” – Lao Tzu
49.) “Success is as dangerous as failure. Hope is as hollow as fear.” – Lao Tzu
50.) “To a mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders.” – Lao Tzu
Which of these Lao Tzu quotes was your favorite?
Lao Tzu is believed to have traveled halfway around the world spreading his teachings.
As we live in a world filled with conflict and uncertainty, Lao Tzu’s wisdom is perhaps in much greater need today than it ever was. Hopefully, these quotes from the legendary philosopher have helped you develop your inner strength and inspired you to be the best you can be.
Did you enjoy these Lao Tzu quotes? Which of the quotes was your favorite? Tell us in the comment section below. We would love to hear all about it.
The post 50 Lao Tzu quotes on life, love and happiness appeared first on Everyday Power Blog.
A Guide To Erasing Bad Habits From Your Life
Breaking Bad Habits Once And For All.
Erasing bad habits can be very hard sometimes, especially if you do not know the right way to do so.
I wrote this post from through the lens of addiction because it is so prevalent in our society and it’s one of my primary treatment focuses with my clients.
I’ve seen how many people on the road to success get sabotaged by the false promises of drugs and alcohol. It’s can be tough when managing a high-stress, high-achieving life to not give in to insecurities or emotional struggles that lead to sabotaging behaviors.
When I talk about “bad habits” I focus on an alcoholic example, but this could easily be emotional eating, gaming, compulsive shopping, sexual promiscuity, or any other self-sabotaging behavior.
Making and Breaking Habits go Hand-in-Hand
Making and breaking habits are often tied together in how our mind works. We often break one habit by initiating another. For instance, quitting smoking is usually replaced by some other stress-reducing behavior like implementing a daily walking routine.
There is varied data on how long it takes to initiate a new habit or break one. There is research demonstrating evidence for it taking a few weeks to almost a year to change habitual behavior. It all depends on how quickly it integrates into our routine and becomes “automatic” – like pouring your first cup of coffee or brushing your teeth in the morning.
Current and popular research on habit formation points to a repetition of the behavior as well as having a cue as the antecedents to change. Looking at the implementation of a walking routine, the cue may be the time of day – i.e. upon waking up, you would get dressed an out the door within 30 minutes. If you practiced that daily, at some point you wouldn’t have to remind yourself; you would just wake and get ready to go for your walk.
How do we know a habit is bad for us?
We’ve known for many decades about the positive and negative reinforcement loops of engaging in behavior repetitively (think Pavlov’s dogs). Lately, a more recent, but still decades-old study is making the rounds on the internet: the Rat Park study of addiction in the 1970’s. In that study, rats were socially isolated and provided a steady stream of opiates to calm their assumed distress at living an isolated life.
At a later point in time, the rats were provided a community of other rats to mingle with. They were also still provided the option of numbing themselves with the opiates, but they found that when the rats were socially supported they did not choose the drug.
That leads to the question at hand: How do we know a habit is bad for us? When something reinforces us positively, we continue to do it.
It has been assumed that when the rats were socially isolated, they engaged in the continued opiate use because it made their rat life more tolerable. Then, when they had other rats to play with, they no longer needed the pharmacological experience since they were now getting other positive benefits from playing with their park pals.
When we explore drug abuse and reinforcement in humans, the early stage of drug and alcohol use indeed does give the user a positive effect.
The initial “positive” effects of using drugs/alcohol are:
- The user often becomes more socially outgoing
- When one is lonely, the drugs can numb the emotions
- Using substances helps one to “forget their troubles”
- The user can often get a false boost in self-esteem
Although these are short-lived “benefits” the person who experienced them will often seek to repeat that feeling or experience, leading to repetitive engagement in that behavior. So we end up with a cue of, say, feeling insecure before a party leading to a repeated behavior of drinking before going to social events.
Because the emotional payoff can be so strong, it becomes easy to overlook the early instances of “negative reinforcement” that occurs (i.e. hangovers, sexual promiscuity) and just continue engaging in the behavior we believe will give us a positive effect.
Of course, as use continues, the positive effects become over-shadowed by the negative effects, but the user becomes both psychologically and physiologically dependent on them so they continue to use.
There is something to be said about the negative effects that keep one in that feedback loop as well. Many addicts start to get comfortable in the role of being the one that can’t be relied upon or needing to be taken care of.
When they start living in that role, their loved ones often stop putting responsibilities on them or see them as helpless due to the addiction. Their loved ones may be frustrated with them, but again, the positives outweigh the negative even when the “positive” is a ‘negative”.
This starts to get convoluted and confusing, but to understand it better think of it this way: Joe began drinking because he was frustrated that he was always working so hard and felt his wife should help out more financially.
Over time, Joe became less functional and his wife ended up having to get a better paying job in order to support the family because Joe was no longer able to do it because of his drinking. You see, Joe got exactly what he wanted, but it was at the expense of his self-worth and his marriage. No one would ever recommend this as a way to get your emotional needs met.
In the end, a habit is bad for us if it affects the quality of our daily life. For as much as Joe got what he wanted, his life was no longer the same and had dramatically taken a turn for the worse, emotionally, physically and financially.
The reinforcement loop needs to be broken so that Joe starts to learn more effective ways to get his emotional needs met (i.e. communicating with his wife instead of drinking to numb his emotions).
The Role Rewards Play in Breaking Bad Habits
For as much as we need a strong cue and repetition to form new habits, we also need a good dose of positive rewards on the flip side when breaking bad habits. Let’s look at Joe and his alcoholism.
In the early stage of breaking his habit, Joe will need a hefty dose of positive reinforcement to outweigh the alcohol addiction because his addicted mind will be screaming loudly at him to not change his behavior.
Some rewards that might benefit Joe are:
- His wife begins to give him some responsibility back, improving his sense of self-worth and importance in the family
- His boss gives him some kudos for showing up for work on time consistently,
- His kids start spending more time with him.
- His wife starts to listen to him when she sees that he wants to participate in the family again.
These rewards also become automatic and expected. Joe becomes motivated to stay sober because he realizes he has a sense of purpose in his family, his wife listens when he talks about his needs and his kids want to be around him. Joe has a better chance at maintaining his behavior change as long as he can still feel the reward.
5 Ways to Avoid Bad Habits
1.) Listen to your emotional needs – You may be a high-achieving, driven person who’s always on the go! Go! GO! Even you need a break sometimes.
Listen to your mind and body and know when to take a day (or 2 or 3) off. You and the people you are working for will appreciate that you are the best version of you, rather than a tired, bitter, over-worked one.
2.) Ask for help when you need it – Just like Joe who didn’t tell his wife he needed help because he expected her to “just know” or see that he was distressed, we can’t assume our partners can read our minds. Somewhere along the route to achievement, it seems we get instilled with the idea that asking for help is a sign of weakness and the idea of acting on the impulse gets over-shadowed by shame, guilt or pride.
Don’t make Joe’s mistake and expect your partner to read your mind. No matter how much your partner loves you or how well your business partner knows you, no one is a mind-reader (and you can’t be and at them for not meeting your needs if you don’t tell them what they are).
3.) Don’t listen to that negative voice in your head – I know you know what I’m talking about. You can be on a great path to success or you can already have reached heights you never dreamed of, and yet, that little voice in the back of your mind comes creeping around the corner to tell you “you’re not good enough” or “it’s not going to last” or “everyone’s going to find out you are just faking it”.
CUT. IT. OUT! At the very first inkling of that voice, pull yourself out of your head – engage in something that brings you into focus in your present environment: notice the sounds around you, make eye contact with someone, re-engage in conversation with someone. What if you’re all alone in a silent room (ala bedtime)?
Tell yourself something different – tell yourself the TRUTH! You are competent! You are exactly who others think you are! You don’t have time to let negative thoughts get you down and you definitely don’t have time to have them lead to sabotaging bad habits.
4.) Do something each week that is just for you with no goal attached to it – For me, exercise keeps me sane, for others, it’s drawing, knitting, skating, singing, playing in a band, reading, cooking or any number of other things that just speak to one’s soul and lets you know that no matter how busy you think you are, there is always a few hours to be in touch with what fuels your spirit.
5.) Stay socially engaged – Just like the rats in the Rat Park study, we need connection with others. Staying socially engaged allows us the freedom to express ourselves and be heard by others, gives us a sense of community when our lives might otherwise feel isolated, and, of course, one of the biggest factors in self-sabotaging behavior and bad habits seems to be spurred by a sense of not feeling like we belong.
We need to feel like we belong. Especially in the case of drug and alcohol abuse we know one of the most prevalent factors in achieving and maintaining sobriety is when one has a sense of community. Try it – Next time you’re feeling alone, reach out to someone you haven’t talked to in a while – I bet you’ll both feel better for it.
The post A Guide To Erasing Bad Habits From Your Life appeared first on Everyday Power Blog.
It’s not about having the perfect relationship
Monday, July 30, 2018
Why Good Things Come To Those Who Hustle
Sometimes, being identified as a hustler can have a negative connotation. Hustlers are often thought of as crafty, manipulative schemers who take advantage of others. But there are also many positive traits associated with those who are distinguished as hustlers.
For instance, in business when we think of someone who hustles, we think of someone who stays busy, thinks quickly, seizes opportunity, has a great sales pitch (the gift of persuasion), can take on any challenge, makes things happen, and gets things done!
A hustler is someone who just plain and simple makes a way when there’s NO way. A hustler will never take “no” for an answer. They are individuals who more often than not, find themselves on the winning side – succeeding and achieving at just about everything they take on.
Repeatedly, we find that good things come to those who hustle, and who are not willing to accept less. We find that those who just keep hustling ultimately get the results they desire. It is not a mere coincidence that hustling leads to positive results. We can clearly see from example and experience that a successful result is tied to one’s ability and willingness to work harder than anyone else.
So, let’s look at the useful and positive traits required to be a successful hustler and turn losing into winning. While each one has their unique style or method for winning, there are a few staples that every hustler keeps in their tool bag.
These characteristics are always handy and accessible in ensuring that good things come to those who hustle.
Top Reasons Why Good Things Come To Those Who Hustle
1.) Time and Effort
Sacrifice, hard work – the never-ending grind – is the modus operandi of a true, dedicated hustler. There is NO defined schedule (no 9-5). Instead, a hustler puts in as much time as they deem necessary to grab hold of what they want. Hustlers don’t allow themselves to get boxed in by routines and time limits.
Theirs is a labor of love. They find joy in exerting the energy needed to accomplish their vision. Hard work, long hours, multiple assignments, risky business, are all sweet-sounding descriptions of time and effort (from their view).
You see, every hustler knows that laying around hoping or relying solely on faith without action will never turn a dream to reality, or transform hope into real possibilities.
2.) Determination
Courage, willpower, and guts – these are the foundation of a hustler’s game. Every hustler has a vision, a goal, or a desire they see in their mind’s eye. They are willing to go after it regardless of the potential challenges. So they set up a solid basis for achieving greatness.
They understand that they will encounter pain, get turned around, and fall countless times. But they never focus on the negatives. No matter the obstacle or issue that comes their way, they fight past it and pick up their pace.
Good things come to those who hustle because they can outlast every storm and survive disasters to begin anew. They operate in the spirit of never giving up, and persevering against all odds. Hustlers outplay and outlast all contenders.
3.) Preparedness
A hustler stays prepared. First, they pack the right tools and bring the right supplies. They know what the adventure entails so they bring the physical items and tune their minds and emotions accordingly. But they are also flexible enough to change direction, adjust their timing, or reconfigure their plan without getting frazzled.
They are quick to sense an opportunity or see a new angle they could go after without much hesitation. A hustler is like a chameleon – they become what they need to be given the time and space they are in. A true hustler never misses the train, plane, or bus.
They are first in line to claim that prime seat. They are never left behind because they are always ready, always prepared to claim the prize. When opportunity knocks, the hustler is right there to snatch it.
4.) Persuasion
If a hustler needs to convince others to follow them, act on their ideas, or assist them, they must be emotionally tied to their vision.
They must have no doubt in the validity of that vision. Then, they must utilize their mastery of communication to get their message across in such a powerful manner that listeners buy-in with little to no hesitation. They pump us up and get us committed to their goals and desire. Before you know it, we are their advocates, supporters, and contributors working hard to help them reach that pinnacle.
A good hustler knows nothing is every handed over on a silver platter. They realize that they will often have to negotiate and bargain to acquire what they want. They understand that the ability to effectively persuade others is critical to accomplishing their goals.
Think about it: if a hustler can manage to get people from all levels of society, with a variety of talent and a pool or resources in their camp, how can they lose? This is why good things come to those who hustle.
5.) Network
Nobody makes it on their own. Regardless of what people are willing to admit, the right connections and contacts play a significant role in getting us to the place of success. Any accomplished hustler knows that they must interact with others.
Hustlers will link with those in their field, as well as those who have resources or access to assets and people who can help them to advance. They pull from the best of the best, combine those pieces, and churn out something special.
They not only form relationships with knowledgeable individuals, but also create valuable partnerships. They glean information from those who have already found success. In doing so, they gain easy access to direction, examples, and mentorship. These all help to lead them down the road to greatness.
Hustlers make things happen.
Yes, good hustlers are calculating. But, more importantly, they plan, strive, and go after what they want with NO reservations. Their mind is always defining their next move. They stay in touch with what’s hot and what’s not, as well as who’s hot and who’s not. This way, they know where to focus their attention to get just what they want.
They invest time and effort, display fierce determination, operate in a state of constant preparedness, nurture and use their gift of persuasion, as well as snatch every networking opportunity. Hustlers are neither afraid nor ashamed to stake their claim. They stand ready to reap the fruits of their labor.
As winners, they know that in the end, good things may come to those who wait – but, truly good things come to those who hustle!
The post Why Good Things Come To Those Who Hustle appeared first on Everyday Power Blog.
20 XXXTENTACION quotes and lyrics about life and depression
Looking for XXXTENTACION quotes? We’ve prepared this collection of quotes and lyrics from the late rapper to inspire you. Enjoy!
Jahseh Dwayne Ricardo Onfroy, known to the world simply as XXXTENTACION, was an American rapper, singer, and songwriter.
Known for his depressing and daring style of music, XXXTENTACION experienced a meteoric rise to success prior to his murder and had a huge impact on his young fanbase.
Born on January 23, 1998, in Plantation, Florida, Onfroy had something of a troubled upbringing and was sent to a youth correction center after committing robbery. After his release from the juvenile detention center, he decided to get clean and pursue a career in music.
XXXTentacion gained popularity by uploading snippets and full versions of his songs on SoundCloud. He rose to fame with the release of his song “Look at Me” and released his debut album, 17, in August 2017. His second album, ?, which was released on March 16, 2018, debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and was later certified gold in America.
On June 18, 2018, Onfroy was killed while leaving a motorsports store in Deerfield Beach, Florida.
Despite all the controversies that surrounded the rapper, XXXTENTACION was a role model to his fans in many different ways. He encouraged other kids to follow their dreams and even released a song to motivate and uplift them. He was able to tap into his Everyday Power to turn his life around and achieve success in a short span of time.
In that respect, here are some XXXTENTACION quotes and lyrics about life and depression to inspire you.
XXXTENTACION quotes and lyrics about life and depression
1.) “I’m lost then I’m found” — XXXTENTACION, SAD!
2.) “Who am I? Someone that’s afraid to let go” — XXXTENTACION, SAD!
3.) “The saddest thing about betrayal is that it never comes from enemies, it comes from those you trust the most.”— XXXTENTACION
4.) “You decide if you’re ever gonna let me know” — XXXTENTACION, SAD!
5.) “I’m in pain, wanna put 10 shots in my brain I’ve been tripping bout some things, can’t change suicidal, same time I’m tame.”— XXXTENTACION, Jocelyn Flores
6.) “I can’t seem to find someone’s shoulder
Who will I rely on when it’s over?” — XXXTENTACION, ALONE PART 3
7.) “So outside of my misery, I think I’ll find
A way of envisioning a better life” — XXXTENTACION, Hope
8.) “I’m sadder than most of you with the money and the freedom” — XXXTENTACION
9.) “Make out hill, where we met
We let our lips do all the talkin’ and now I’m hooked and…
Depression and obsession don’t mix well” — XXXTENTACION, Depression & Obsession
10.) “I’ve been feeling really lost, ducking all attachments
I don’t really go outside ’cause I hate traffic” — XXXTENTACION, Everybody Dies in Their Nightmares
Sad XXXTENTACION quotes and lyrics about love and relationships
11.) “I gave her everything. She took my heart and left me lonely. I’ve been broken, heart’s contentious. I won’t fix, I’d rather weep. I’m lost then I’m found, but it’s torture being in love.”— XXXTENTACION, SAD!
12.) “I love when you’re around
But I hate when you leave” — XXXTENTACION, SAD!
13.) “But it’s torture being in love” — XXXTENTACION, SAD!
14.) “What is money really worth if it ain’t love?” — XXXTENTACION
15.) “I’m nauseous, I’m dyin’
She ripped my heart right out
Can’t find her, someone to—
My eyes are all cried out” — XXXTENTACION
Other inspirational XXXTENTACION quotes
16.) “Follow your dreams, and know that even though you have lost, you have guardian angels watching over you, day in and day out” — XXXTENTACION
17.) “I could never say I understand how you are all feeling, nor can I find the right words to say to you, but I do want you all to know, you are not alone.” — XXXTENTACION
18.) “Hello, from the dark side in
Does anybody here wanna be my friend?” — XXXTENTACION, Save Me
19.) “Carry on, like flights, I just carry on
With this pain inside of my chest
Got no choice but to carry on” — XXXTENTACION, Carry On
20.) “Being alone really makes you realize all you got is yourself.” — XXXTENTACION,
What other XXXTENTACION quotes would you add to the list?
Despite coming from a somewhat troubled background, XXXTENTACION left a huge musical footprint due to his popularity during his short career.
As he once wrote on SoundCloud:
Follow your dreams, and know that even though you have lost, you have guardian angels watching over you, day in and day out, the last thing they want is for their lives to be lost in vein, make them proud! live full, healthy, genius lives!
Hopefully, the above quotes have uplifted you and given you motivation to pursue your goals and dreams regardless of circumstance.
Which of these XXXTENTACION quotes was your favorite? Do you have any other quotes from the rapper to add to the list? Share with us in the comment section below. We would love to hear all about it.
The post 20 XXXTENTACION quotes and lyrics about life and depression appeared first on Everyday Power Blog.
How to believe in your dreams even when people think you’re crazy
Learn how to believe in yourself and make your dreams come true today – no matter what anyone says!
“I dreamed a dream in time gone by, when hope was high and life worth living, I dreamed that love would never die, I prayed that God would be forgiving…”, Susan Boyle, a modest, middle-aged woman sang as she touched the stars. She had a dream and her powerful voice echoed throughout the world.
“We’ve got to have a dream if we are going to make a dream come true”, said one Denis Waitley, motivational speaker, writer, and consultant.
Have people ever managed to awake a sense of guilt just because you defended your attitudes, values, and dreams that you believe in? Unfortunately, everyone is doing it. Not just parents and friends, but complete strangers as well, will act the same way if your beliefs do not match theirs.
It is clear that even your family and closest friends will not always believe in your dreams. But this is NOT a reason to give up! Don’t let them kill your self-confidence.
I have a friend who was dissatisfied with her job. She dreamed of having her own company. She shared her dream with her family and friends – but they didn’t understand her.
Some thought she was not capable of doing it. Others told her this is not the right moment, while the rest were not interested even to talk to her about it. They considered it a crazy idea. But she made a poster and wrote:
If you don’t build your dream, someone will hire you to help build theirs.
She asked herself a question: why was she at her current job? For money? She realized that she didn’t feel the passion in her work. She felt as if she betrayed herself and gave up on her dreams.
She decided she will no longer work for money, but for passion. You know what? She did it!
How to Believe in Yourself and Make Your Dreams Come True
Your Story – Birth of a Dream
You live in a small town. So small that it seems that you can read the thoughts of your fellow citizens because you know them well. You always go to work the same way and walk the same streets because you think there is no other way.
Your work is boring – far away from your interests and talents. There is no chance for your prosperity. You don’t feel good doing it and want to change something. But what? Then, a great idea goes through your head: you should move, go to a larger city that offers more opportunities.
Hey, that’s it!
You run and share your idea with your family and closest friends. They are shocked and react strangely. You didn’t expect a response like this:
The big city, life is more expensive. You don’t know anyone there and you will feel alone with no friends. Don’t get out of your comfort zone! You are really nuts! What if someone robbed you and you are left without money in an unknown city?!
Don’t let them scare you! At first, you may be like a punctured balloon ready to give up. But the next day, this idea will come to your mind again and you’re sure you have to do this.
You don’t speak to anybody anymore. You spend every free moment with your eyes closed, following in your mind the imagined pictures of your future life.
Suddenly, the favorite song of your family becomes “Green, green grass of home” and they play it several times during the day. But they don’t tell you anything. They just look at you and follow your reaction. They first tried to scare you with a terrible scenario, and now they use your emotions as leverage.
Don’t fall for it!
Believe In Yourself : Nothing is Unreachable
Whether you want to live in a big house, to visit the furthest place on the planet, or to start a new job, nothing is impossible – even if it seems so.
Big dreams are not realized because people think they are impossible.
There is always: “Just yet …” No! Don’t wait to earn more money, experience, courage, or anything else, because there is NO perfect time for anything. Life changes day by day. The longer you wait, you will never start. Do yourself a favor and do what you want today!
Don’t be afraid: do what you need!
Talk to a person you are scared of or answer an unpleasant email. This first step will give you direction and show you what to do the next. Even small or seemingly unimportant things can contribute to huge progress!
People think that optimists see only a good side, but ignore everything else. Realistic optimists recognize both the positive AND the negative side. But their energy points to the side that can have a positive result.
Even when you don’t have support, you are not alone. Learn how believe in yourself and your dreams. Give them time, effort, have faith, and do everything you can to make a dream true. Then you will see that everything will start to change and fall into place. Be patient.
Devote yourself to inspiring conversations with yourself.
If everyone has turned their back on you and don’t believe in your dreams, you are the only person you can always count on.
We can all be self-critical. But negative thoughts should be turned into something effective. Don’t accept negative thoughts – find a new focus. Strategy is key.
Don’t think your life is written down somewhere. You create your own life. Set up and define boundaries for yourself. Get out of your own borders. Just now, it’s worth to be brave.
Step By Step Towards Your Goal
Don’t just believe in your dreams – make them real. Here’s how to believe in yourself:
1.) Form your desire as a concrete goal.
Get moving. Write down everything in the present time as if it had already been done. Write down the date. For example:
Today is 25th November 2017. Today is my first day on my new job. Everyone is kind, they are smiling. After work, I will drink coffee with a new colleague from my office. She is living close to my new home.
2.) Find leads.
Write down what can help you achieve your goal. What are the ways you look for a new job, for example. Look at bureaus that can help you, ads in newspapers, or search the Web.
3.) Who can help you?
Certainly, there is someone you can count on who will support you. Maybe he or she knows another person who can give you an idea on how to make the next step.
4.) Think of possible problems you might face.
We are not talking about bleak thoughts – but think of it as necessary preparation.
When you start working on your dream, it’s expected that you will encounter problems along the way. Prevent them as much as you can by planning ahead. Always have room for a plan B.
5.) What do you get and what do you lose?
For example: your dream is to live in a big city.
Cons: You will lose the peace of a small town. You might not hear birds chirping while you drink coffee in your courtyard surrounded by silence and clean air.
Pros: You get new opportunities, probably a better job, and new friends.
Bottom line: Find out what’s more important to you.
6.) Prioritize.
Make a “to do” list. Estimate a realistic timeframe for each step and set priorities. Determine necessary budgets, schedules, etc..
7.) Think of the advantages when you reach your goal.
Write down everything, this way you motivate yourself. Whenever your strength seems depleted and when doubt takes over your thoughts, return to this step and read it carefully. This will help you with how to believe in yourself and your dreams again.
8.) Update your notes.
Read your notes carefully and update them regularly. The closer you get to the goal the more details will come to your mind. Don’t wait! Immediately start the realization. The faster you get into action, the greater is your chance to succeed.
I will not tell you what to say to your family and friends who don’t believe in your dreams. You will know what to say when the time comes. Either way, learning how to believe in yourself will open up endless opportunities in your life.
Maybe you can send them a CD of Elvis Presley with the song “What a Wonderful Life”.
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50 superhero quotes to inspire the best version of you
Our latest collection of inspirational superhero quotes on Everyday Power Blog.
Although they may only be fictional, superhero stories often capture essential truths about our human nature.
We love superhero stories because we can resonate with the problems and dilemmas that the superheroes face. Superheroes are models for us, so we often would like to identify with them.
Superhero films and stories are exceptional sources of inspirational quotes. Besides being entertaining, they’re often full of motivation.
That said, here are some inspirational superhero quotes that will motivate you to use your Everyday Power and be the best version of you.
Superhero quotes to inspire the best version of you
1.) “It’s not who I am underneath, but what I do that defines me.” – Batman
2.) “The answers you seek shall be yours, once I claim what’s mine.” – Thor
3.) “If there is nothing but what we make in this world, brothers…let us make it good.” – Beta Ray Bill
4.) “What is a superhero? They’re supposed to represent hope, opportunity, and strength for everybody.” – Aldis Hodge
5.) “Intelligence is a privilege, and it needs to be used for the greater good of people.”– Dr. Octopus
6.) “Heroes are made by the path they choose, not the powers they are graced with.”– Iron Man
7.) “This. This is what I am. This is who I am come hell or high water. If I deny it, I deny everything I’ve ever done. Everything I’ve ever fought for.” – Green Arrow
8.) “A hero can be anyone even a man doing something as simple and reassuring as putting a coat around a little boy’s shoulder to let him know that the world hadn’t ended.” – Ben Affleck
9.) “You’re going to make a difference. A lot of times it won’t be huge, it won’t be visible even. But it will matter just the same.” – James Gordon
10.) “With great power, comes great responsibility.” – Spiderman
11.) “I had my eyes opened. I came to realize that I had more to offer this world than just making things that blow up.” – Iron Man
Superhero quotes to put you in a super state of mind
12.”I think you just have to appreciate who you are and hopefully they can see what a superhero is about.” – Lucy Liu
13.) “One of the reasons why Spider-Man is my favorite superhero is because we both undergo big changes in our lives.” – Tom Holland
14.) “No man can win every battle, but no man should fall without a struggle.”– Peter Parker
15.) “The future is worth it. All the pain. All the tears. The future is worth the fight.” –Martian Manhunter
16.) “THE UNIVERSE IS SO BIG, IT HAS NO CENTER. WE ARE THE CENTER.” —MS. MARVEL
17.) “Listen, smile, agree, and then do whatever you were gonna do anyway.” – Iron Man
18.) “Superheroes were born in the minds of people desperate to be rescued.” ― Jodi Picoult
19.) “…turning your ankle hurts like hell, even if you’re a superhero.”
― Christopher Moore
20.) “In a world of ordinary mortals, you are a wonder woman.” – Queen Hippolyta
21.) “I think a hero is an ordinary individual who finds strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” –Superman
22.) “It’s not dying that you need to be afraid of, it’s never having lived in the first place.” – The Green Hornet
Powerful superhero quotes to help you find the superhero within
23.) “You are much stronger than you think you are. Trust me” –Superman
24.) “Why do we fall? So we can learn to pick ourselves back up.” – Batman
25.) “EVERYTHING DOESN’T HAVE TO BE ABOUT FEAR. THERE’S ROOM IN OUR LINE OF WORK FOR HOPE, TOO.” BATGIRL
26.) “The door is more than it appears. It separates who you are from who you can be. You do not have to walk through it.” – Franklin Richards
27.) “The measure of a superhero is always his nemesis.” – David Lyons
28.) “If you cage the best, the beast will get angry.” – The Indian Feed
29.) “Superpowers, don’t always make you a superhero. – Duck”― Michael Grant
30.) “‘What happens when the unstoppable force meets the immovable object?’ They surrender.” —Superman
31.) “I need a day when there aren’t twenty crises to deal with, but I don’t see that coming any time soon.” – Iron Man
32.) “The real crime would be not to finish what we started.” – Doctor Octopus
33.) “The greatest power on Earth is the magnificent power we all of us possess… the power of the human brain!” – Professor X
Inspirational superhero quotes to get you fired up
34.) I believe there’s a hero in all of us, that keeps us honest, gives us strength, makes us noble, and finally allows us to die with pride, even though sometimes we have to be steady, and give up the thing we want the most. Even our dreams. – Spiderman 2
35.) “I’m here to fight for truth, and justice, and the American way.” – Superman
36.) “It took God seven days to create paradise. Let’s see if I can do better.” – Batman & Robin
37.) “A true hero isn’t measured by the size of his strength, but by the size of his heart.” – Zeus
38.) “Life doesn’t give us purpose. We give life purpose.” – The Flash
39.) “When you decide not to be afraid, you can find friends in super unexpected places.” – Ms. Marvel
40.) “You only have your thoughts and dreams ahead of you. You are someone. You mean something.” – Batman
41.) “Sometimes the truth isn’t good enough. Sometimes people have got to have their faith rewarded.” – Christian Bale
42.) “No matter how many times you save the world, it always manages to get back in jeopardy again.” – Bob Parr
43.) “Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero.” – Marc Brown
Other inspirational superhero quotes
44.) “Dad is and always will be my living, breathing superhero.” – Bindi Irwin
45.) “It’s every boy’s dream to play a superhero.” – Sam Heughan
46.) “The strength of this country isn’t in buildings of brick and steel. It’s in the hearts of those who have sworn to fight for its freedom! ” – Captain America
47.) “Women are the real superheroes because they’re not just working. They have a life and everything.” – Vanessa Paradis
48.) “Life hits you hard. But it takes you three seconds to decide if you are a superhero or not. I am.” – Hrithik Roshan
49.) “Being a superhero is hard work. You have to save the world. But going to school is even harder. You have to save yourself.” – Lenore Look
50.) “I know what it’s like. To not live up to expectations. To feel like nothing that you do will ever be good enough.” – Green Lantern
Which superhero quotes were your favorite?
Superheroes are often noble, strong and self-sacrificing. They work to save the world and fight against evil.
Hopefully, these superhero quotes have reminded you of the true value of friendship, justice and freedom.
Did you enjoy these superhero quotes? Which of the quotes was your favorite? Tell us in the comment section below. We would love to hear all about it.
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