I was very snappish and out-of-sorts this past Monday. Didn’t want to work, communicate or participate. My crotchety mood was brought on when I realized I had a very busy week with several presentations, networking events and client meetings—after I had just spent the weekend working in Chicago. I did a few things out of obligation, which made me even more cranky and resentful. I was not someone to be around.
Here’s the thing. I truly love my out of town gig. I get to do the work I love while talented, wonderful people handle all the details. And, I love working with Cathy to help people find Clarity™ through our workshops and coaching. I certainly love the revenue that is generated by introducing people to our work.
But, on Monday, it all looked like a concentrated conspiracy to destroy my happiness, my desire for solitude, and my intense need for several days of slothfulness.
Tuesday morning, facing a 7:00 a.m. breakfast meeting, as the bile of overburdened resentment was rising in my throat, I decided I needed to apply Jack’s Rule of Gratitude.
As a ten-year-old, Jack came with his mother, Allison, to a workshop we conducted together. We taught Jack the Clarity™ Daily Check-in, which includes an expression of gratitude. A couple of months later, Allison called with a message from Jack. He said we needed to improve our process.
He said he had been doing the Check-in two or three times a day, and it really helped him enjoy school more. But, we really needed to improve it by always expressing at least five things we are grateful for, not just one or two. “Mom, everyone has at least five things they are grateful for. It really makes me happy to list and think about all the good things I have in my life. Cathy and Gary need to change their Check-in.”
So, we added Jack’s Rule of Gratitude. I finally remembered to use it Tuesday morning.
- I’m grateful for the opportunities and revenue bump this week.
- I’m grateful I have work I’m good at that serves others.
- I’m grateful I live with a woman who generates kindness and energy, and who knows how to hold her own energy field.
- I’m grateful the Olympic performances last night reminded me of the energizing power of dedication to purpose.
- I’m grateful that my calendar next week has many openings for slothful solitude.
- I’m grateful to Jack and his ageless wisdom and willingness to tell us. Thanks, Jack.
We all know the invigorating influence of recognizing our gratitude. To activate its restorative power, we need to express it often—everyday—to our own heart, mind and spirit. Give yourself a vibrancy boost right now. Stop and give me five.
Remembering Jack with Gratitude,
Gary
