Being There

Do you ever feel like life is passing you by?  I think we all have at some point.  It is that feeling that we are stuck and for some reason, we have missed everything that has been going on around us.  I am not talking about missing some fun, but life.  When you find yourself in this state it is time to take some decisive and direct action.

Turn Off the Machine

                Success-minded people are hardworking people who are heading to a goal in life.  This is good until that striving starts to make you into a machine rather than a person.  This happens when every day is just like the one before it.  You get up at the same time, get ready the same way, travel to work by the same route, do the same things at work and go home at the same time and same way. The worst part is that every day becomes the same as well and there is no progress in that.

                It is time to unplug the machine and pay attention to the world that is all around you.  Do things differently.  Start off the day with something inspiring and helpful.  Go to work by a different route a few times a week.  Even if it means that you must leave early, leave early.  Change the routine and change your life. Make each day new and different and you will not only move forward, but you will enjoy the trip.

“If you make listening and observation your occupation you will gain much more than you can talk.”

– Sir Robert Baden-Powell

1857-1941

Founder of The Boy Scouts

Add Beauty to Your day

                I know this may sound corny but believe me it can make all the difference in the world.  Every day listen to some good music that uplifts and inspires you.  Look at some art.  Pay attention to what is on your wall and the walls around you.  Read a poem or something that will inspire and lift you up.  Take a walk in the park or the country.  Many of us miss the beauty that is in the world simply because we do not take the time to add it.  There is no shortage so it is up to you.

                The great German writer and philosopher, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe wisely said, “A man should hear a little music, read a little poetry, and see a fine picture every day of his life, in order that worldly cares may not obliterate the sense of the beautiful which God has implanted in the human soul.” 

Connect with Others

                When you are around other people listen to them - really listen.  Keep in mind that every person you meet has something great to add to your life.  If you start by believing that every person is a divine appointment, you will find that you are enriched more by just listening to them than by talking at them.  Humanity is wonderful and extremely entertaining.  Enjoy the people in your life for a change.

                You matter!  You matter to the world and to yourself.  Remember to be your best, love God, have good manners, achieve the unknown and change your world.

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2019 John Patrick Hickey