Take5 with David L. Weatherford - 12 Steps to a Better Self

David L. Weatherford

Child Psychologist and Writer

I don't intend to use up much valuable space telling personal stuff about myself. I really just want to present the writing; of course, since much of it is based on my own experiences and perceptions, I think you will eventually get to know me pretty well (not that it's at all important that you do). I believe that most of my writing reflects the fact that I have essentially distilled my primary values down to two core life essentials that undergird everything that truly matters: God and Love. These are the answers to every question that I consider to be important. Because of them, I am able to find joy and meaning in each day, look forward to the future with hope rather than fear, and endure all hurts along the way.

God and Love provide the guideposts for my life journey; I hope that you have found what lights your path.

For more information:
David Weatherford

12 Steps to a Better Self

1. Appreciate the positives at all times. Be grateful for all the wonderful things in your life, even when you are struggling with some of the negatives.

2. Give, be unselfish, and help others. Remember, they are struggling with life just like you are.

3. Don't claim to be right all the time, or at least don't try to persuade others that you are right and they are wrong. LISTEN, and accept the other person's right to believe as they wish.

4. Accept that life will frustrate and hurt you sometimes. Change those things you can change, make peace with the rest.

5. Don't get upset or angry over things you cannot control, especially if they are not important in the long run anyway. Practice patience and cultivate calmness.

6. Avoid useless negative thoughts. Be aware of them, don't try to fight through them, just let them go.

7. Develop greater tolerance, and accept what others choose to do without judging it or being upset by it. If possible, think of ways you can learn from the things that annoy and frustrate you about other people (e.g., learn the art of patience, test your capacity for forgiveness).

8. Forgive and let go (and do it first, don't wait for the other person).

9. Don't worry and ruminate. Think through your concern, decide what can be done, do that, then drop it.

10. Relax more. Meditate daily. Have quiet time. Spend some time
just being, not doing. Turn off the mental motors and let your mind idle.

11. Be more in the moment. Focus on the present. Live fully now.

12. Express your love frequently and fervently.

Tags: David L. Weatherford New Attitudes Inspiration