5 Lessons Learned

Lessons Learned, Behind the Mirror, Amanda Teague, Rockaway Beach, New York

Several years ago I found myself constantly surrounded by negativity at work. At first, I joined in… it’s fun to bitch and complain. But, it didn’t take me long to realize that this behavior wasn’t productive nor was it making my day to day richer.

In an effort to change this, I made the mistake of trying to change others around me to be more positive. I think of it as a rookie mistake. Once reality set in and I recognized I can’t control other people, I started to take things into my own hands.

I made a list of what I called “Rules to Live By.” Perhaps, lessons learned would have been a better title, but it serves the purpose either way. As I read or hear others say encouraging statements or pieces of advice I write them down.

Then, whenever I am in a funk or just feeling really down in the dumps and negative, I read them. Sometimes several times. And, sometimes I even have to put on the Garden State soundtrack while I read them. But, eventually I have found the list gets me feeling like I can conquer the day. I by no means think that this list is the only key to happiness, and I am sure that there are more that could add great value to my current list.

A friend recently asked me to share the list with her and then told me how she has also found a lot of comfort in reading it on tough days. So, I thought to share it…

1.) Strong people stand up for themselves but they also stand up for others, because they can. They are strong and they recognize that not everyone is. Sometimes all people need is a little help.

2.) Use change as an opportunity to grow.

3.) You always get a second chance.

4.) Go with the flow – When everything in life seems to be going wrong, mostly it’s meant to go wrong so that you may outgrow the things you need to outgrow and learn from those experiences.

5.) Laugh at confusion.

There is a lot more on the list. I will try to keep posting them.

What are some of your best lessons learned?

***beauty always comes from within, photo taken by Claire Newhouse, xoxo behind the mirror***

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  • Katie Lockwood

    This is such a great post! I recently went through a similar situation where everyone at work were super negative and half even threatened to quit if two girls weren’t fired. I definitely need to make a list of my own!

    xx Katie

    Miss Adonis

  • Tanja

    The first number is actually such a great quote – I had to write it down, because it’s so true. http://www.neverdreamedaboutthis.com

  • Dahi Koch

    very wise words. i especially love statement 1 and 5.

  • Montserrat Sobral

    Thanks for sharing this, it is so useful… For sure, the hardest thing for me would be laughing at confusion, but I will be giving it a try. I like doing my best, but when things don´t go the way I would like it, I always remember what my sister once told me: Montse, lo que sucede, conviene (If it happens, should be) and it´s true! there is always some lesson to learn or the chance to improve a situation (you will get a second chance). I am listening the Garden State soundtrack, I am loving it!

    • Laughing at confusion was one of those things that I never even thought about until someone mentioned it to me. It just really stuck with me because confusion happens all the time and it is no one’s fault. So, there is no point in getting upset over it and I used to. Give it a try and let me know how it goes, I would love to know your thoughts!

      • Montserrat Sobral

        I will ;)

  • Runway Daze

    I really like number 1 and number 4! My friends and I always say ‘ Surrender to the flow’ I like this because sometimes you just need to let go and let life take you where you are meant to be!

    • I love this! Surrender to the flow… I feel like I should hang that up some where to read each and every day. Thank you for your comment.
      x, Amanda

      • Runway Daze

        It really is a good one! Make a painted sign and hang it for decor and inspiration! :)

      • Such a great idea! I love it!

  • ElleSees.blogspot.com

    laughing at confusion–oh yes!

  • Lulu Darling

    Lovely post !!!

    http://missluludarling.blogspot.com

  • Karen Ng

    These are all such great tips! Thanks for the post :)

  • Indian Savage

    Wonderful tip
    Kisses
    Maggie D.
    The Indian Savage diary

  • Shirley M

    I really love this uplifting post!!! I think its very positive and the way we should loo at things when they go wrong. Will definitely use this in the future!!

    XO,

    Shirley

    TrueHonestFashion

    • Thank you so much!!! I am definitely trying to have a more positive attitude so I am glad it is showing through, he :D

  • Mel

    Excellent post! Love the advice
    ~Mel

    http://girlandthepolkadot.blogspot.com/

  • Marta C

    What a great list-love this post!! Thanks for stopping by:)
    Marta
    http://www.sweatersstripesandsweets.com

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