There is a book, “The Four Agreements”, by Don Miguel Ruiz that was passed on to me by someone I consider my mentor as well as a good friend. The book is based in Toltec teachings and while I’m not big into the self-help genre, this was such a clear and basic code of conduct that it resonated with me. I keep the boiled-down four agreements with me at all times for days when I am at my wits end. I take a deep breath, read them, and move on.
Today was one of those days I needed to review them, so I thought I would share them with you. Maybe you too can find value in them.
1. Be Impeccable With Your Word: Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the words to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.
2. Don’t Take Anything Personally: Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won’t be the victim of needless suffering.
3. Don’t Make Assumptions: Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.
4. Always Do Your Best: Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgement, self abuse and regret.
I admit, I’ve yet to pull off all four of these at once but I think the point is to keep trying. Like #4 states, always do your best. Today I’m just doing my best and hoping tomorrow’s best…is better.
Design by Simon Fletcher. Powered by Tumblr.
© Copyright 2010
