I realize that no one is responsible for my happiness, and no one is always going to say or do what makes me happy. So I am working on taking what I like and leaving the rest with every relationship! It’s so empowering to be responsible for my own joy, regardless of what others say or do! I’m not saying people don’t get on my nerves sometimes…but I am getting much better at appreciating the contrasts they show me and focusing on what I desire.

This is the best tool for me to use when I experience things I don’t enjoy. I even appreciate the contrasts with my own thoughts and behaviors. For example, if I am late going somewhere, of course initially I think “I just hate being late!” then I will think “I appreciate the contrast, I choose to allow myself more time and leave earlier next time”. That feels so much better!