Photo: D. Paul Graham, ‘Sonoma Balloon-Rise’, 2022

“Monday 5 Things”™ ….. Don’t …..

I was agitated. The morning did not start out as I had expected. The sun didn’t give me the shot I was hoping for. Parking for media had changed to a less than desirable location. Thankfully, I had been here before and went to an alternate spot at one of the highest points on the track. I simply stood there, taking in a deep breath. And then it happened. The balloon began to rise over the distance mountains. Six shots changed my perspective for the day. Six shots changed my negative thinking to a mindset of thankfulness, gratitude, and peace. And as I thanked God for such a beautiful reminder, this morning’s M5T took shape.

1. Seriousness

Take life, your motives, and your responsibilities seriously, but don’t take yourself so seriously. Give yourself permission to live your life. Make honest and sincere connections. Don’t postpone joy, especially in your relationships. Focus on the good in every situation. Ask yourself – will this situation, this point of stress, matter in an hour, a day, a week, a month, or a year from now?

2. Expections

Don’t live your life according to the expectations of others. Stop looking to others for acceptance and approval. Don’t obsess over the glamour presented on social media. Don’t assume, always ask. Don’t accept the negativity and toxicity of others. Do good some good today without expecting anything in return. Focus on, and genuinely appreciate, the beauty of the blessings that you have in your life.

3. Pathways

Don’t take the beaten path. No matter what path you choose, always look forward. Keep exploring and questioning. Ask yourself if you really need to wait. There is no wrong path, but the right path in life requires perseverance and patience. God thankfully gave us free-will. Exercise it with an understanding of the privilege, prudence, and purpose our chosen paths deserve.

4. Belief

Don’t stop believing in yourself. Don’t lose focus on your goals, objectives, and your dreams. Tap into the power in your ideas and your imagination. Don’t dwell on your mistakes. Be true to yourself. If you don’t believe in something, you’ll believe in anything. Make sure your values, your morals, and where you place your faith are crystal clear to you.

5. Forget

It seems like a trite saying, but don’t forget your roots. Don’t, in fact never, forget how you got to where you are today. Don’t forget who helped along the way; the people who believed in you, took a chance on you, and gave you an opportunity when no one else would.

Here’s to a week of removing the don’ts in your life.

© 2022 D. Paul Graham, all rights reserved.

For over 10 years, D. Paul Graham has published “Monday 5 Things” ™, also known to readers as M5T ™.  Each Monday, Paul shares his observations, thoughts and passions on people, life, and culture.