“When I do good, I feel good and when I do bad, I feel bad. That is my religion.”- Abraham Lincoln

Several months ago, I was going through some of my old journals when I came across a little gem. It was a ten-point “manifesto” I wrote after first reading The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People way back in high school. Even though I wrote it ages ago, it still feels relevant to me and I hope it’s relevant to you too. Here goes…

I will value the innate beauty present in all people. We may all be different in many ways, but we’re ultimately more alike than not and remembering that helps.

I will be empathic to the needs and feelings of others. Take the time to really understand where other people are coming from and consequently connecting in meaningful ways.

I will maintain balance between courage and consideration. Stand up for yourself by being assertive but don’t cross the line to aggression.

I will be realistic in my expectations of life. Not all things will work out perfectly and keeping this in mind will save you a lot of unnecessary stress.

I will be open and honest regarding my thoughts and feelings. Don’t feel guilty about having an opinion and wanting to express it because you deserve to have a say.

I will control the things I can and ignore the things I can’t. Learn to accept the fact that there are a lot of things that you have no power over and instead focus on the things you can actually change.

I will take full responsibility for my happiness. It’s not about waiting for circumstances to change; it’s about taking the initiative to change them yourself.

I will seize each day and utilise all opportunities for development and growth. Life is short so don’t waste any time when it comes to following your dreams.

I will actively nurture my body, mind, heart, and soul. Life is a gift and needs to be treated as such.

I will always value who I am and not base that value on the opinions of others. Have a strong sense of worth and learn to love who you are regardless of what others may think.

“Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest.” – Mark Twain

(For more resources and tips, download your free copy of “Work in Progress” exclusively from www.varsityblah.com/about)

“If you set an example by being correct, who would dare to remain incorrect?” – Confucius

Throughout history, there have been countless men and women who have truly changed the world. Learning from their successes and failures is a sure way to help us achieve what they did (and perhaps even more). Finding a role model or mentor you admire is a great way to make significant changes in your life and in the lives of those around you. But don’t be daunted. You don’t have to look far and wide. Often, what you need may be right under your nose.

“You can’t wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club.” – Jack London

(Eugene Yiga is the editor of Varsity Blah and his latest book is available free, exclusively from www.varsityblah.com/about)