The Number One Way to Overcome Perfection: Realize Nobody's Perfect!

We seem to think everyone else has "perfected" life, and we're the only ones scrambling around.  At work, the person in the nice office has "perfected" their job.  In our neighborhood, the next door neighbor with the pristine garden has "perfected" domestic life.  On double dates, the other couple has the "perfect" relationship.

I don't think so.

The number one way to let go of the ideal of perfection (which, by the way, will make you crazy) is to realize that NOBODY'S PERFECT.  There are some people who are great at what they do.  Great does not equal perfect.  Under the right circumstances, an honest person will tell you that. 

And even the Oprahs and the Donald Trumps of the world aren't perfect.  Lots of money does not equal perfect.

So stop thinking you're the only one who can't find their socks in the morning! 

Nicole

PS:  Like this post?  I talk about this in even more detail in my new book.  Check it out!

Three Ways to Deal With Rejection

Rejection isn't an easy thing to deal with, but let's be honest, it's something we're never going to be rid of! From relationship rejections to job rejections, it's here to stay. So how can we deal?

It Wasn't Meant for Me
Everything isn't for everybody. Accepting a rejection is easier if you realize that it might not have been the best thing for you after all. Sometimes something seems like the perfect opportunity, but that may not be the case. Think of it as life's way of steering you in the right direction.

Something Better Awaits
While this didn't work out for you, something else will, and it will be even better. Concentrate on the excitement of better things to come and let that fuel your efforts. Staying positive takes the focus off of the negativity.

Everyone Gets Rejected - EVERYONE
Sometimes we forget that even the most accomplished people have dealt with rejection. No one is immune, believe me! You'd be surprised at how many famous authors, singers, athletes, politicians, etc., were told NO before they got their big break! So don't take it personally.

How to Like Difficult People

This week we're focusing on strenght, and it takes a lot of strength to get along with difficult people. Check out this article on tips for liking someone better:

http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/health/user-post-8-tips-for-liking-someone-better-or-disliking-that-person-less-471321/

Let me know if it works! ;)

Nicole

Learn from the Millionaires!

Learn money tips from 70 millionaires interviewed for this article. They only make up 2 percent of the population, but they have some really interesting habits. Some of them are no-brainers - for instance, make more money than you spend - and others are pretty neat like always buy used cars (so those Bentley's aren't brand new?!?!)

To read the article, click here.

Nicole

Little Health Tips That are Worth Gold

We just finished up our exploration of Spring: Renewal, Rebirth, & Restoration on "GS Radio" in March, which included topics surrounding our health and taking better care of ourselves. Exploring these topics really made me more aware of what I eat and the need for me to set aside time for relaxation. In preparing for the shows, I came across some tips that we weren't able to squeeze in, but I think they're grrrrrreat!


1. Wash your hands


I just had a conversation with my mom and sister about this very topic a few weeks ago. Don't underestimate the benefit of thoroughly washing your hands. Between working at the National Institutes of Health and marrying my obsessively clean husband, I have come to appreciate how important this is. We now keep anti-bacterial soap at every sink in the house along with a roll of paper towels and Nerissa knows that she should wash her hands as long as it takes to sing herself "Happy Birthday." We went from getting three or four colds each winter to practically none. So wash your hands - warm water, antibacterial soap, and for at least two minutes!

2. Don't be embarrassed to talk to your doctor about ANYTHING

When you have a symptom, ask. Catching things early can be the best prevention for serious issues down the line. If you don't feel comfortable, find another doctor who you can talk to.





3. Embrace laugh lines


I just had a birthday last week, and with every birthday come the jokes about getting older. I read about a recent study that indicated laugh lines are normally found on happier people. Instead of shuttering at yours in the mirror, feel good about them. They mean you laugh and smile a lot!




4. If you're really sick, don't go to work


Don't be a hero here. Not only will you infect other people, you'll delay your own recovery!







5. Turn the TV off when you sleep


Good sleep requires dark. If you're wondering why you never feel rested, this could be why.






I'm sure there's more that I'll stumble upon. As we learned during the show, a very simple way to commit to a healthier lifestyle is to educate yourself! So keep looking for golden nuggets like these!


Nicole

Gotta Goal? Write it Down

One of the biggest challenges we face when working toward a goal is that we're not clear about it. Often we have a vague idea of what we want (i.e. "I want to be a success" instead of "I want a fulfilling job."). What better way to nail down exactly what you want than putting it on paper?

I do this by keeping a monthly planner. Yes, I haven't made the switch to modern-day technology, ok!? I write all of my daily goals in my planner, and it helps me gradually work my way to the big ones. It really works!

Take out a notepad and write down your goal. Be clear, specific, and real. Make sure it's something you can sink your teeth into - make it tangible. Once you've clearly identified it, don't stop there. Put the piece of paper in a place where you'll see it often. For instance, in your daily planner, on a bulletin board in your office, or on your fridge.

You'll be one step closer to getting exactly what you want!

Nicole

Tip for Getting Energized

These economic times are reason enough to find yourself feeling down in the dumps. Folks are losing their jobs, paying too much for gas, and watching their grocery bills go sky high. If you're looking for a pick-me-up, here's a great one: try something new.

There is no better way to get the excitement juices flowing than trying something that you've never done before. It can be crazy and adventurous - like sky-diving, bungee jumping or roller coasters - or it can be as simple as reading a book by an author you've never heard of or walking barefoot in the grass. The thrill of the unknown will make you more aware that the whole world is open to you and there are tons of things to try and do!

I'm taking some of my own advice and going on an evening tour of the Eastern State Penitentiary. Anyone who knows me knows I spook easily, but Donte and I are celebrating our one-year wedding anniversary this weekend, and what could be more romantic???!?!?

Have a great weekend, guys!

Nicole