A few recent experiences prompted me to think about the person I want to become, which subsequently led to some contemplation of traits I admire in others. It turns out that many of the people I admire most have one thing in common:
They are always genuinely happy for others, even if things in their own lives are looking bleak.
I can think of 3 people off the top of my head who are always genuinely happy for others and never jealous of others' successes-my good friend Susan, my second cousin David (or is it 1st cousin, once removed? so confusing!), and my backyard neighbor, Melanie.
I've been considering where I stand and where I want to be. It seems that simply taking a few minutes to become more aware of what needs to change was half the battle. Recently in an interview on Marta Writes (what a gal!), the talented Jordan of Oh Happy Day recommended, "Be authentic and don't be jealous". She also mentioned being friends with people with skills you are interested in learning (I'm paraphrasing a bit--you can read the full interview here). I think the same principle applies here:
Surround yourself with talented, inspiring, good people who uplift you and make you want to do more and BE more.
Wow, I'm waxing a little serious today :) Hope you don't mind. Feel free to share any thoughts you might have on the subject!
What a nice reminder! I read the article, and I think my other favorite advice is when she says that it is usually good when people steal your ideas... I think I need to keep that one in mind more often!! Thanks for the deep thoughts :)!
ReplyDeleteHow interesting you would blog about this. The same thing has been crossing my mind about how I want to improve and being genuine is one of those things I strive for. Whether it's being happy for someone, concerned, or just show that I really do care, I appreciate the people I meet that I feel are genuine (and I totally agree about Melanie!) I completely admire people who are and want to be the same way, although I think shyness and sometimes a lack of confidence make me come across as not so genuine. Thanks for the post and the artilce, great ideas!
ReplyDeleteCarrieO
Carrie, I think you are plenty genuine. Give yourself more credit :) I will never forget you bringing me those organic pears on what, two different occasions? You thoughtful person you. They were the most delicious pears I've ever tasted!
ReplyDeletegreat post!
ReplyDeletei think this comes to mind a lot in the blogging world especially.. it's easy to be a little jealous of all the crazy talent out there. but, at the end of the day you have to find what you can bring to the table and appreciate what others are bringing as well.
I couldn't agree more with you about your cousin, David (BTW, he is your first cousin once removed. His children are your second cousins because he is my first cousin. I'll explain it sometime. Good introspective thoughts today. I'm sure everyone, including myself, enjoyed thinking about what you wrote. I like it when you mix it up like that! Love ya!
ReplyDeletethat same part in the interview stood out to me and i've been thinking about it ever since. it strikes me as impossible that a talent like jordan would ever be jealous of anyone else, but i guess no one has all the talents. it has caused me to think about self-improvement as well, mostly in spritual things. cheers to self-introspection! thanks for this post.
ReplyDeleteWhat a good example of why I like your blog! I *could* let myself be jealous of your fabulous month in France, but instead I'm loving it through your posts. Blogging is a great source of inspiration.
ReplyDeleteI like what you said about surrounding yourself with people who make you a better person. I totally agree. Negative people can really bring you down and change your whole attitude. I need to try to spend time with positive, upbeat people who inspire and challenge me to do and be better. Hooray for you for this topic!
ReplyDeletei agree, i love your blog because it seems you strive to be you and authentic and share. caroline already said what i was thinking on this topic - totally agree, and i wanted to say that i was struck by jordan's advice as well, so i appreciate your thoughts =)
ReplyDeleteLove this post! "Genuine" is such an amazing quality to have, and Melanie is it. She's so sincere. Being the best version of ourselves is really what it's all about.
ReplyDeleteYour introspection reminds me of George Washington's Rule of Civility. One of his rules talks about associating with people of quality.
ReplyDeleteThis is exactly why I like your blog. I'm determined to remind myself to nurture those relationships that bring me the most happiness in my life. And those are with happy and inspiring people who genuinely want everyone else to be happy too.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the link--of course you have to remind everyone to not be jealous because YOU are the one in Paris! :)
ReplyDeleteps: I'm especially jealous of that little bike--if you ever want to sell it I'll buy it for lots and lots. :)