Self-esteem

Be kind to yourself and others

Quiet Grace on a Crowded Train
Having ridden the Orange Line for some 30 years now, I can honestly say that I have seen and/or experienced almost everything from rowdy, troublemakers harassing passengers to gropers rubbing against women. This particular morning, however, the train was pretty quiet as some people read and others closed their eyes and pretended to sleep while I, as usual, looked around scouting out fashion faux pas and anything that could be conceived as funny. As I surveyed the crowd, my eyes happen to steer in the direction of the young man in the wheelchair at the exact time that he began to yawn. That's when I saw the most amazing thing.

Fixing a wrecked relationship: it's easier than you think!
Let's face it. You're going to blow this "be nice" thing, and you're going to blow it a lot. There's no such thing as consistency in people's thoughts, moods, behaviors, actions, personalities, or characters. Your nice factor is strong on some days, and on other days a million dollars couldn't keep you on track. Yes, you'll blow it, and in the process, you might do some damage to your relationships. In long-term relationships with family, loved ones, new friends, and acquaintances, you're obviously going to have your disagreements and do the wrong thing on occasion. What can you do when you realize you've blown it?

Thanksgiving Mail
In today's world with phones, cell phones, instant messaging and e-mail, we are so in touch that we are out of touch. Communication is so high-speed that it can speed right by us. There's a huge difference between getting an e-mail and getting a card. When you take the time to go to a card shop, pick a card, write something in it and mail it, you are really showing someone that he or she counts. It wasn't easy nor was it quick; it showed you cared. It's also amazing.

Cultivate a Colorful, Eclectic Circle of Friends
Just remember that the universe has eyes. Your own self-love and confidence are undeniably tied to what you put out there. By cultivating an eclectic group of friends and choosing to be nice and respectful to all types of people, not only will you expose yourself to fascinating cultures, you'll also liberate yourself from some of the negative beliefs that can accompany stereotypes and expand your own personal happiness.

Pay It Forward
Sometimes you're not nice and, for whatever reason, you can't go back and apologize to people for having been mean, malicious, or unkind to them. The main thing to realize is that feeling guilty will only delay and obstruct the lessons and practices of becoming a nicer person. It seems and feels better to recognize that you blew it and vow to make it right for the next person you come into contact with by

The Value of Appreciation
Have you ever gone out of your way for someone and received a dull stare? Have you ever gone the extra mile for a friend or relative and had them act as if it was nothing? There are some basic premises involved in simple appreciation. People who can't find it in their behavior to thank you may have a number of things going on either consciously or unconsciously. Tim Connor explains.