Nineteen Life Lessons We Can Learn From a Dog. Yes, of course I am serious! Dogs are naturally curious, courageous and committed. Just by being themselves, they can teach us some important tips and tricks. After all, God spelled backward is Dog. Read into it what you will! I have spoken to dog owners who truly believe. My Mom is one of them! God – Dog, both unconditional love!
1. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride.
When work gets out of balance – take a joy ride. Don?t you find that relaxing, even for a short time, will drop stress levels? Encourage yourself to take the time to relax when you need a break. When you have reached a goal, celebrate.
2. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
Don?t forget to stop and smell the roses – use all your senses. Stick you face out into the breeze, feel and smell the air with abandon and freedom.
3. When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Take the time to stop and greet family members when they come home. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the busy aspects of our lives. Make family members feel they are greeted warmly. Think of how excited your dog gets when you come home, tail wagging, wanting to love you! It just feels good and is the right thing to do. Communication even if brief, is ever more important in our technology driven world.
4. When it?s in your best interest, practice obedience.
Stay loyal to yourself. Your well being allows you to more effectively live a happy life. Stay focused and live a purpose driven life.
5. Let others know when they?ve invaded your territory.
Make your priorities and boundaries clear with your family and friends.
6. Take naps & stretch before rising.
Take time for a breather. Stretch, move around to get the circulation moving, and if you need a nap – take one.
7. Run, romp and play daily.
Enjoy life, exercise, do something that brings you joy.
8. Eat with gusto & enthusiasm.
A healthy meal with no distractions is important for your well being and balance. Enjoy meal preparation. Take yourself out to lunch or dinner now and then.
9. Be loyal.
People know, like and trust you. Let them know that trust is earned.
10. Never pretend to be something you are not.
Always be your authentic self – this way you are more creative, in touch with your inner core and just happier in general.
11. If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
Be tireless in your pursuit of dreams. Don’t give up. Understand that “No”, does not always mean no. Find a need and fill it, find a pain and fix it. People love to know you are filled with integrity, inside and out, that you are willing to go the extra mile. Share your gratitude and energy with others.
12. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by & nuzzle them gently.
Be supportive of others – guide them if they need your assistance. Be gentle with yourself. Often we are hardest on ourselves and need to give ourselves a pat on the back, or a good scratch!
13. Thrive on attention & let people touch you.
Enjoy the success without ego, stay humble and genuinely support others in their success. You will find this creates a mutual support system.
14. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
Give a nudge or gentle reminder when needed. Remember you always draw more bees with honey than with vinegar. Be kind to others and yourself.
15. On hot days, drink lots of water & lay under a shady tree.
Drink lots of water, takes breaks and be in the stillness to center yourself.
16. When you?re happy, dance around & wag your entire body.
Do the happy dance.
17. No matter how often you?re scolded, don?t buy into the guilt thing & pout – run right back and make friends.
Develop courage. Don?t let anyone take your dream away. Stay strong and motivated. Accept constructive criticism as an important part of personal growth. Most people are there to help and support you. Surround yourself with positive, motivated, successful and loving people.
18. Bond with your pack.
Develop a team. Find like minded people to hang with, but it is important stay open minded, always evolving and growing into a more expanded version of you.
19. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Now that the hard work is behind you, take a long walk, relax and enjoy the sweet smell of success for a life well lived.
20. This last tip is from me – Be Grateful. These are nineteen tips I hope you have enjoyed from our wise and furry friends and one from yours truly.
Debra Oakland
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