Enjoy more. Complain less.
Believe more. Doubt less.
Relax more. Worry less.
Play more. Work less.
I don't know who wrote these lines, but I bought a notepad with them written on the cover. Not because I needed another notepad, but because I wanted to remember these recommendations.
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| This notepad is from the Eccolo World Traveler "Lofty Thinking" collection |
The more I consider this advice, the more profound it seems. Any attempt at these goals is likely to lead to an increase in happiness.
I was surprised to realize that I balked a little at the last line. Work less? Surely that is a good thing. But suddenly I pictured a neighborhood of half constructed houses, uncollected garbage piled high on city streets and mothers of sick children unable to find a working physician.
The key word is "less." I think there is always a better solution to any problem other than fighting; but complaints, doubt, worry and work are all necessary tools at certain times. Constructive complaints can bring about necessary change. Doubt can lead to questioning and a greater understanding of a concept. Worry can prompt caution in dangerous situations. Work is both satisfying and productive. It is easy to do too much of any of this though - complaints can just become annoying; doubt crippling; worry inhibiting and work all-consuming. Life is about balance.
I have been thinking about what else I would add to these words to live by:
Praise more. Criticize less.
Read more. Waste time less.
Promote equality more. Oppress less.
Exercise more. Eat less.
Conserve more. Pollute less.
What would you add?
