Powerful Life Lessons: 14 Things I Want You to Learn from Me (Or at Least Consider)

Life Lessons Powerful Life Lessons: 14 Things I Want You to Learn from Me (Or at Least Consider)

Life Lessons: What that brain of mine has accumulated.

My very smart friend and Social Median Margie Clayman, recently wrote an amazing blog post called, “What I want you to learn from me”. In it, she shares a bit of herself by telling us what she’s come to realize either through her experiences or those of others. If you ask me, she’s been very generous in giving us some wise advice when it comes to succeeding and life in general.

This grand blogosphere of ours is in large part about learning and helping each other in any way we can. And while we attempt to provide our audience with value – each in our own way and style – we ultimately open the door to a part of our lives by revealing (whether consciously or not) bits and pieces of our true self and personality.

After all, it’s what allows us to connect and determine whether we’re interested in one another – opinions, beliefs and all.

If you recall, I did a little piece on my birthday back in November where I shared 17 things about me and then again a few weeks ago where I asked you to Bring IT! and share 17 things about yourself that we’re not likely to find online. I even made it easy for you and provided the questions – which of course, I answered as well.

Well I decided to take Margie up on her offer [see the end of her post] and write a similar piece that lists 14 things I’d love for you to learn from me. Granted, I’m far from being a life connoisseur or “know it all”. But much like you – I’ve learned a few things here and there throughout my years of experience and my time breathing on this earth. Things that have generally worked for me and that I hope will work for you too.

So without further ado and blah blah, here are my 14 commandments or little rules of life, if you will.

  1. If you don’t like and respect yourself, no one else will. I have more faults than I care to imagine. But I know that I have a ton of qualities as well. Regardless of everything, I like who I am and I have a tremendous amount of respect for myself and everything I stand for. I carry myself in a manner that exudes confidence and pride in my upbringing and character. If you appear to others like someone who doesn’t respect themselves, you make it much easier for them to disrespect you. People can often perceive you as you perceive yourself. For a woman, this rule is one that best be remembered.
  2. Don’t be envious of others. Appreciate your uniqueness and your self-worth because you have something to offer that no one else does. The grass isn’t always greener on the other side. Count your blessings and realize that you possess a personality and specific qualities or traits that are YOU and only you!
  3. Live the life you want, not the one that others expect you to. People – specifically your family and friends – generally expect great things from you when they believe in your potential. And they should. But make sure to expect the same from yourself. Don’t simply be great because others want you to. Be great because YOU want to! Because you can’t see yourself living any other life than your own.
  4. Don’t do unto others what you don’t want them to do to you. This way of life doesn’t have to be in the Bible or any religious testament for us to realize its importance . If you don’t like something being done to you, probability is that neither will others.
  5. Focus on the 98% that’s right in your life instead of the 2% that’s wrong. We so often worry and lose sleep over the little petty things in life and forget to be thankful for the great things that we have.
  6. Overnight success is a myth not worthy of a fable. I think anyone and everyone who lives and breathes social media knows what I mean by this. Overnight success comes from months, years and decades of perseverance, diligence, patience and hard work.
  7. Don’t expect anything in return for your good deeds. Don’t do something for someone simply because you expect them to return the favor or gesture. Do it because you genuinely want to. You’d be surprised by how much more often than not your thoughts or actions will be appreciated and maybe even reciprocated. If it’s within your means and power to help someone – then help!
  8. When you’re faced with a tough decision, writing down the pros and cons on a piece of paper will enlighten you more than you think. You might think this is silly, but trust me – it works! Even for the simplest of things such as relationships for example. It’s like the difference between imagining a picture in your head and looking at it directly. If you’ve ever written a SWOT analysis for a project, then you know what I mean.
  9. To every crisis is an opportunity. As unfortunate as that statement may sound, it’s often very true. It’s similar to the saying, “for every door that closes, there’s a window that opens”. Take the recent demonstrations in the Middle East for example. It’s been sad to see what’s been happening but at the same time, the merchant who sells flags and banners has made quite the killing. What about the company that sold Tamiflu during the “swine flu” outbreak? What about non-material things – such as learning, growing, reflecting or becoming better than before from whatever may have occurred? Like I said, there is a seed of opportunity that lies in every crisis.
  10. Life sometimes throws you a curve ball. Have your glove ready to catch the son of a bitch! And if you must – throw it right back.
  11. Diplomacy, courtesy, honesty and respect go a long way and will get you everywhere.
  12. Don’t live to work. Work to live. I don’t care how much you love your job. Even if you’re a Lifestyle Entrepreneur like me, who aims to profit from passion. Your work shouldn’t be your life. Your family and friends should!

As for numbers 13 and 14…Well, those are special to me because I’ve been hearing them from my father since as early as I can recall. I might have been hearing him back then, but today…I’m listening – loud and clear!

Life 101 Powerful Life Lessons: 14 Things I Want You to Learn from Me (Or at Least Consider)

13.  Close one eye and open the other, and the years will have flown by. I was an 8 year old kid living in Cairo, Egypt when I first heard that old age Arabic expression. And my dad’s probably said it to me 100 times since. But I vividly remember when he said it to me before I left for college. He said they would be the fastest 4 years of my life. No truer words were ever spoken.

I accorded my twin half-brothers the same wise words of advice before they went off to college 3 years ago. I also included “have a blast” and the end of golden nuggets – contrary to my father’s version for me lol. They recently reminded me of it when they couldn’t believe they only had one year left to graduate.

All I mean to tell you here, is make every moment count for time is beyond precious and there’s no getting it back!

14. It is possible to one day lose everything or everyone you love…your house, spouse, money and all your belongings. But the one thing that you can never lose and that no one can take away from you, is your education; the one you get at home and at school. How right he is!

I’m pretty sure that my father isn’t reading this (or this blog in general for that matter) – so I’ll have to remind him one day that I do pay attention after all ;).

Okay, I think I’ve mused enough – although I’m sure you know I could easily drop another 20 lol!

Now it’s YOUR TURN to share and teach me something. Don’t be shy and don’t think for a minute that there’s nothing more to add here. 

What have you learned by experience or through others?

What wise words of advice do you have for me and this community?

You can either write them here in the comments section or in a post on your blog. Just remember to link back to this piece if you do. The choice is yours and the floor…well, that’s all yours too ;)!

[image credit: (Education) via Gameover’s Blog; (Life 101) via Pioneer Drama Service]

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About the Author

Ingrid Abboud aka 'Griddy' is a whole lot of things with a ridiculous amount of interests. For one, I'm a Social Media enthusiast with a tremendous passion for writing and blogging. I'm also a pretty cool Copywriter but a more serious MarCom Consultant. But most of all, I'm the proud owner and driving force behind nittyGriddy.com - A Kinda Social Media Journal with Net News & more.

  • http://www.hongkongcarpetscleaning.com/ Carpet Cleaners HK

    Hii, Firstly I would like to pay many many thanks to “Griddy” because you are not only updating your friend’s but also corporate us to know about that blog.

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    It should be necessary for us to develop mind !! Do you know Previous 4 month my scene of humor is developing !! Thanks for sharing the current !!

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    Yeah, These all are amazing points mentioned here. Glad to know about that..

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    I’m still learning from you, but I try to reach my goals. Since then enjoy reading all the information that appears on your blog.Keep come. Loved it!

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    14 powerful teaching Ingrid! When will you come back and give us more inspiring posts?

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    There are people who are a bit like our guardian angels,but it also made me look at life a bit clearer. It made me live each day as if it were my last because you never know when it’s your time to go.

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    I’m doing the same thing I have always been doing. That’s my Disqus Avatar showing on my replies; has to be Jack and John……….it just gives me something else to ‘tag’ on to. I don’t everyone to know how bad I really stalk you anyway…

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    Your post contains very powerful life lessons. These lessons are very important and useful for our life. So we all should follow these lessons.
     

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    Very very useful life lesson which includes 14 very important facts which are very necessary to follow for understanding the truth of life.

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    The post is very infographic and help me lot in several issues.Thanks for sharing the post. 

  • http://letmemoveyou.me Shelley Lundquist

    Hi Griddy, all of your lessons are so on point! Very valuable advice, especially for those who have not yet learned them. I tried to chose which ones resonated with me the most or that I needed reminding of…  2, 3, 4, 5, 7,9,10, 11 ? But, all of them resonated with me! I celebrate you, and your uniqueness. I’m so glad that you take the time to write and share the things you do! Many blessings to you in 2012!

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  • http://www.lifeasanexperiment.com James D. Burrell II

    Well after a decade long hiatus from your blog, I’m back again. I echo what others have said above, and that is that this post is truly one of your all-time greats. It’s hard to believe that I’ve been coming here for nearly an entire year, and although I’ve come to expect wonderfully written posts full of wisdom and that Griddy flair, this was truly exceptional. 

    Most of the lessons that I try to live by are embodied by your list already, but I’ve a few to add.

    When I was but an 11 year quarterback for our Pee-Wee football team, we had a team saying that we printed on all of our non-uniform clothes: “What’s it gonna take? All I got.” At the time, the saying only had a superficial meaning. Victory required a 100% effort. But recently, on a exceedingly grueling run in the Charleston heat, I had an epiphany 15 years in the making. The saying didn’t speak to the effort required rather than to the task at hand. It dawned on me that the only tasks truly worth doing are the ones that require 100% effort, a full investment of our heart, mind, body and soul. To truly achieve, we must be willing to go all in.

    And I’ll close with a Big Jim (big in personality not size — aka my dad) specialty: If a frog had wings it wouldn’t bump its ass so much.” Meaning there is futility in complaining about that which we do not have. Appreciate the gifts we possess, and make the most of our lives with the hands we are dealt. 

    Pants, I’m hoping to return as a more frequent visitor in the coming weeks, and here’s to hoping that you’re doing really, really, almost to the point of disturbingly well. 

    All the best,

    Jimbo

     

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    Hi Ingrid, I want to say that number 2 & 4 is something I learned when I was a kid from my parents, and I continue to make an effort to follow them in my daily life till date, and believe me these principles have payed great results always.

    I did like to add that ego and envy are two really vicious qualities that can sap the life out of one’s life. I try my best to keep them at bay, and live a fuller life.

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  • Anonymous

    Love this post…. Love this post….. Love this post…..

    Excellent Ingrid, so much wisdom in one blog post. You rock…

    • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

      Thank you, thank you, thank you :)))))))!
      I love your love for this post Joe!

      I really enjoyed writing this piece and it truly came from the heart.

      Hope you’re well and thanks again for your very kind support. Big smile on my face right now :D.

      All the best to you.
      Cheers

      • Anonymous

        I am well, you’re welcome! Keep on smiling :)

  • http://twitter.com/C_Pappas Christina Pappas

    Something my dad always said to me more often than not was to practice ‘tact and diplomacy.’ See, I am one of those hot-headed females that doesnt seem to know when to just shut up. I tend to speak out of turn when I am extremely excited about something and sometimes I say the wrong things. Dont we all? Please say yes!! So tact & diplomacy makes a lot of sense because its all about the art of saying the right thing at the right time and editing yourself where appropriate.

  • http://twitter.com/AdrienneSmith40 Adrienne Smith

    Wow Ingrid, I’m SO very proud to say that I’ve learned all these same lessons myself.  But I love hearing that you have as well and sharing them with others so that those who may need that extra push in the right direction will surely feel the love coming from this post.

    Like mine, your father was a very wise man. I hope yours is still with you which is why family should always come first.  I have no regrets and no words were left unspoken between my Dad and I.  For that I am truly and deeply blessed.  ?

  • http://www.3hatscommunications.com/blog/ davinabrewer

    I got the ‘work to live’ down, and I live to play. I bloody love the ‘overnight success’ is a myth, to wit I think is also that work-life balance thing.. pure illusion. Thinking of the curve balls and challenges, a crisis or loss, all will throw the balance out of whack so best not to whine (wine is ok) but suck it up and deal.

    Wise words for others? Let’s turn to the Gambler “know when to hold ’em, know when to fold, walk and run” which means you gotta be smart about picking your battles, not putting effort into a lost cause but also sticking to your gut when you have to. What else? Still fine tuning the post for next week, but basically it’s a reminder that the lack of success does not mean failure. FWIW.

  • http://twitter.com/skypulsemedia Howie at Sky Pulse Media

    I love number 7 the best. Because I just discussed this exact thing with a friend explaining why I refuse to give any stuff of mine or money to the Salvation Army. When I worked with Stand Up for Kids in Los Angeles doing street outreach helping homeless street kids, the kids would rather starve than go to the Way Inn (Salvation Army Inn) for food because they would only feed the kids if they could preach to them. Most homeless charities do this. SUFK’s is the only non-religious based national volunteer group on the US helping homless kids that is not religious based. It also explained the misnomer. We all thought Salvation was because we gave them the stuff we would normally toss like they are Salvaging it. No Salvation is to save your soul.

    And I got pretty aggro when so called religious groups only help people in return for preaching to people because that makes them the biggest frauds on earth.

    Oh and I should pass @ginideitrich:disqus  with this comment 8)

  • Anonymous

    Link back? Right…………I don’t even show up in comments……………:)

    With all this frivolity going on I never even commented. You pretty much summed up the way I try to live life. Enjoy the journey, appreciate your friends and what you do have; don’t want for much; and give w/out expecting anything in return.

    After that gang of thugs tore me apart and left me for the buzzards, I have nothing else to add.

    Hope your weekend is going well.

    • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

      At least you are not banned from asking questions on the Arment Dietrich wall on FB! 😉 So remember, it could always be worse…

      • Anonymous

        I can only imagine ‘oh, one w/ no filter’……………..:). Probably had Miss Gini squirming……

    • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

      At least you are not banned from asking questions on the Arment Dietrich wall on FB! 😉 So remember, it could always be worse…

    • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

      What gang of thugs are you referring to? I am feeling rather cranky and would be happy to go talk to them for you. :)

  • http://hajrak.blogspot.com Hajra

    My oh my… too much of wisdom for one go I must say. I like the honesty and education especially. Seems like they do go a long way in one’s life. My favorite life lesson would be from my mommy – she said, evil will always be there, for us to value the good. Fight the evil, but don’t lose the value of good. Well of course, that didn’t make sense years back, now it does! 

    And really how did you ban @twitter-34985693:disqus ! You should do a feature on that… 😉

  • http://www.TrafficGenerationCafe.com/ Ana | Traffic Generation Cafe

    Wow… this post and comments can keep one busy for a long time! Thanks to you Ingrid and all the commenters for all the incredible advice and words of wisdom. 

    I believe that every minute that you don’t live to the fullest, is 60 seconds you can never have again. Therefore you must make the most of every minute of your life. Live with joy and passion so that you will never regret it.

    • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

      Hey Ana, 
      So sorry for my late reply Tzarina – I was actually travelling and just came back. I’m so happy that you enjoyed this piece and you’re right – the comments can indeed keep us busy for some time as they’re loaded with insight. As I always like to say – the gold is almost always in the comments – more so than the actual post.

      I love the wise words of advice that you have for us as well – they couldn’t be more true – unfortunately – we forget them much too often and always need a little kick in the butt to serve as a reminder that life is too short and we should live it to the fullest and make each moment count.

      Thanks again Ana for being patient with me here and for sharing your thoughts.
      Hope you’re well.

      All the best

  • http://www.findallanswers.com Jane | Find All Answers

    Education, indeed i a great thing. We may not know about its importance today, but it is such an asset that lives with us until we pass away.

    • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

      It sure is Jane. It’s funny – I guess you know you’re all grown up when you can say something like that about education lol ;).
      Thanks a lot for your thoughts on this.

      Ciao

  • http://vizsource.info/ Kim Davies

    Hi, Griddy. 

    You have such a powerful list of life lessons here that a lot of us should take to heart. I love your take on not focusing on the bad things in life, but on the good things instead. There is so much in life to smile and be thankful for, that there is really no room for complaints.

    I have had my share of life lessons as well and some of them are:
    – Smile. You never know what hurts you’ve eased by that simple gesture of friendship.
    – There is always something good in everyone no matter how bad they appear on the outside.
    – Live your every day as if it were your last. Make every moment count.
    – Recognize your uniqueness and revel in it. God wouldn’t put you in this world if you were just to be the same as others. There is something in you that makes you You and nobody else has it.
    – Be childlike. Be spontaneous. The best lessons in life are learned when you think like a child and act like a child. Just don’t be childish about it.
    – Never boast. Look all around you. There are so many things out there that will make you humble.

    I may have left out some that I cannot think of right now, but these are among the things that I live by every day. 

    Thanks for the list, Griddy. Made me think big time. The comments here are gems, too. :)

    • http://hajrak.blogspot.com Hajra

      Oh, I loved the chidlike lesson! My dad still considers us his “babies” and treats us like one still! And when we all get together we do bring back old memories and the kick my nephew and niece have seeing their mom and aunts like that! Now wait…we are the crazy family who are loud at restaurants! Yes, that’s us! :)

  • http://twitter.com/adamtoporek Adam Toporek

    Ingrid, this has to be one of my favorite posts of yours. So much wisdom, and what is nice is that each piece of advice is more or less relevant at different times in our lives. I think I’ll just comment on the three that are speaking to me most today.  :)

    Don’t expect anything in return for your good deeds — I’ve always believed that good deeds are their own reward. Do enough of them, you tend to start receiving them back anyway — but not always from the same people.

    Overnight success is a myth not worthy of a fable — So true. Except for
    my $799 Blog Riches E-Course, it guarantees overnight success.  :)

    Diplomacy, courtesy, honesty and respect go a long way and will get you everywhere — I’ve seen a number of really contentious comment threads the last few days. It is amazing how fast people drop the common courtesies on the Internet. True, it can take a lot of extra time to incorporate those courtesies in print, but it does go a long way when you do it.

    Again, great post. Thanks for making us think!

    • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

      Adam, let me know when you start promoting your course so that I can offer the same one- for only $599. It will be huge and turn me into a thousandnaire. 😉

  • http://twitter.com/#!/CraigMcBreen Craig McBreen

    Love all you have to offer here, Griddy.

    The words that have helped me: Get uncomfortable … embrace discomfort. I wish I had worked on this earlier in my life.

    Take chances.
    Life is tough. That’s okay! Be tough. Don’t take the comfortable, easy route each time. Go out and do something that gives you THAT feeling. Quick fixes don’t work. Staying strong and bearing a bit of pain does.

    Don’t be controlled by fear.
    IT’S LIFE DESTROYING! If there is something that you’ve been wanting to do, but have been to afraid to do it. Running a 10K, speaking in public, or just sending THAT ONE email. Do it. I would say, Just Do It, but Nike stole that line.

    • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

      I have to agree with Craig about not allowing fear to rule our lives- it is critical to not let that happen.

  • http://twitter.com/MARLdblE Marlee Ward

    I love this list Griddy! So many things you’ve shared here that resonate with me strongly. You are truly awesome and wonderfully wise. :)

    • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

      Hey Marlee,
      Great to see you.
      Thanks so much – I’m really glad you enjoyed this piece and I really appreciate the kind words and all :).

      Hope you’re well.
      Cheers

  • http://twitter.com/danchamberlain Dan Chamberlain

    When you have children, there will be a profound shift in your soul, you will feel it, ask your father.

    • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

      Hey Dan,
      I have no doubt that there will be a profound shift in just about everything.
      Thanks a lot for sharing your thoughts.

      Cheers

  • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

    They say not to sweat the small stuff but don’t let that make you miss out on the small moments in time that make up a life.

    • http://vizsource.info/ Kim Davies

      Love that, Jack. That is profound. Small moments make for big memories. :)

      • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

        YES – love that too Kim! :))

    • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

      Ahh very true Jack! It’s the little things and the details that count. The big things happen once in a while or at least not everyday – but the the little moments – those happen just about everyday and are as you said what make up a life.

      Thanks Jack
       

      • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

        It took me a long time to learn that lesson, but it is one I think of all the time.

  • http://twitter.com/infonote Infonote

    King James Bible
    “And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.” Matthew 10:14
    In other words tell people your point of view, but let them decide in the end.

  • http://twitter.com/tomewer Tom Ewer

    Great list! Although I must admit, I was distracted by that awesome cake in your “17 Things About Me” article 😉

    • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

      Hahaha!
      So you went over and read it eh?! 😉
      It was pretty tasty too!

      • http://twitter.com/tomewer Tom Ewer

        Well I’m not a big fan of real lobster, but cake lobster on the other hand… 😉

  • http://www.unlockthedoor.net Stuart Mills

    Wow, timely lessons of wisdom here Griddy, thanks for sharing these with us! And thanks for highlighting Margie Clayman – I had briefly heard the name before, but never checked out her blog. That’s the problem, too many bloggers and not enough time to check them all out!

    Which leads me onto my own piece of wisdom:

    “You can never be satisfied with ‘more’. Make sure you always have ‘enough'”

    In this society we live in, the focus is on ‘more, more, more’ – more goodies, more fashion, more speed, more productivity, more done in less, etc. It’s never enough. We’re almost driven insane by this collective pursuit of ‘more, more, more’.

    But just try focusing on having ‘enough’ – enough to get you by, and no more. What happens then? We realise we don’t need any ‘more’, because we have all that we need. We have ‘enough’ :-)

    • http://www.logallot.com Sonia

      I couldn’t of said that any better. Nicely put Stu!

      • http://www.unlockthedoor.net Stuart Mills

        Thanks Sonia :-)

      • http://www.unlockthedoor.net Stuart Mills

        Thanks Sonia :-)

      • http://www.unlockthedoor.net Stuart Mills

        Thanks Sonia :-)

    • http://vizsource.info/ Kim Davies

      Great one, Stu. Wanting too much breeds discontent.

      • http://www.unlockthedoor.net Stuart Mills

        Thanks for the kind words Kim :-)

    • http://hajrak.blogspot.com Hajra

      For a 25 years old, you are way too wise 😉 I turned 25 last year and I ain’t half as wise as people hope I would be :)

      • http://www.unlockthedoor.net Stuart Mills

        Lol, wisdom isn’t something that can be measured Hajra, you either talk sense or you don’t 😉

        • http://hajrak.blogspot.com Hajra

          Lol! That makes me all the more unwise 😉

  • Michele

    The best thing I have learned in the last month or so has been a metric for making decisions. It’s called the insanity burden. Do nothing unless it’s insane not to do. It has to be a no-brainer. So, pro and con all you want, ultimately a decision has to be made and if it’s insane NOT DO, then go for it!

  • http://twitter.com/lifeforinstance Life, for instance

    Hi Griddy! Hi Everyone!
    I love “father advice”! The best I got from my Dad growing up was “If you go too close to the fire, you’re going to get burnt.”  More recently, when I told him I’m going ahead with my book he said, “Fail fast – get it out there and write another and get it out there!” Now you have to take this in context – he is my biggest fan!
    😮
    I wonder what advice my kids will remember from me – likely the one I’ve worn out but still use: “Honesty is the best policy.”
    Lori

    • http://vizsource.info/ Kim Davies

      Hi, Lori. You make me remember what my father always say when he gives us his kids some leeway to make our own decisions, “I’ll give you enough rope to either choke yourself or to help you get back up when you fall.” I know that sounds harsh, but I think it’s all about making the decision on what to make of the rope. :) Fathers are the best even if we don’t agree with them almost all of the time. :)

  • Anonymous

    You show me w/ two comments………………really? What is this, am I on the reverse integer program now? I think it’s a conspiracy between  @jackb and @johnfalchetto:disqus ; and they thought I’d do anything to win……ha. They are going to have to do much better than this; I’m not giving up the car until the numbers are verified.

    BTW – good post, I’ll be back…………..with an attitude………..:)

    • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

      Hey Bill,
      I definitely know you’ve commented more than that my friend – but it’s only taking the comments from you registered Disqus account it seems. I don’t know why but this one here again is from your bdorman264 account which doesn’t have a link with your name or anything. 

      It could be as you said that Jack and John are behind this. Maybe they’ve hacked into Disqus and done something hehehe.

      Looking forward to the attitude my friend ;)!

      • Anonymous

        I’m doing the same thing I have always been doing. That’s my Disqus Avatar showing on my replies; must be Jack and John……….it just gives me something else to ‘tag’ on to. I don’t everyone to know how bad I really stalk you anyway……..

        • http://twitter.com/adamtoporek Adam Toporek

          Bill, you’re representing Florida here. How about stepping it up a notch!  :)

          • http://twitter.com/bdorman264 Bill Dorman

            I know; I thought I had some game but didn’t realize I was swimming in a tank full of sharks. But since Florida is one big beach, we know how to handle sharks, right? We know when they are out there even without the Jaws music……….

            • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

              Some sharks are small and cute. They look just like goldfish….

              • http://twitter.com/bdorman264 Bill Dorman

                And I’ve been diving with some sharks in the Keys; bull sharks yes; tiger sharks NO. Get out of the water with tiger sharks because they can get aggressive. I’ll tell you what is mean and aggressive and that is barracudas. When you are pulling a fish up to the boat, a barracuda will come right up and cut that fish in two with its razor sharp teeth. Other than that, it’s a pretty safe swim…..:)

                • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

                  I lived in Florida briefly back in 97. Hardest summer of my life. No matter how bad it gets here in Jersey, it will never be as bad as it gets in Florida. 😉

                  • Anonymous

                    Easy now, don’t be pilin’ on the F L A. But of course, I lived 3 months in Ft Dix and that was the hardest 3 months of my life…………….:)

                • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

                  And thank you for that vivid imagery which now makes me want to swim in the pool only for the rest of the summer!!!! Grrrr…..

              • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

                Some don’t even bite!

            • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

              Some sharks are small and cute. They look just like goldfish….

          • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

            Florida? Home of slow drivers? LOL. I am from Jersey. Land of diners and shopping malls. 😉

          • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

            Florida? Home of slow drivers? LOL. I am from Jersey. Land of diners and shopping malls. 😉

            • http://twitter.com/bdorman264 Bill Dorman

              Oh, I could stereotype several classes of drivers that are BAD drivers in the F L A. Not me of course, aggressive driving doesn’t count………..:)

              • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

                You should try driving where I come from my friend! If you can drive here – you can drive in any country in the world!

          • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

            Land of gators, hurricanes and a million old people. 😉

            • http://twitter.com/bdorman264 Bill Dorman

              Uh, how about 3 mil……………..

            • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

              Ahhhhh – the retirement haven!

          • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

            Hahaha!
            I see you’ve joined the Jack vs. Bill battle for gold as well eh? :)

        • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

          I can neither confirm nor deny these scurrilous, scandalous remarks.

          • http://twitter.com/bdorman264 Bill Dorman

            I thought you were going to say ‘I resemble that remark’…………..

          • http://twitter.com/bdorman264 Bill Dorman

            Bill Dorman (4)     See what you’ve relagated me to. I can do 4 comments w/ my toes……

            • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

              Yah – I will attest to that! Haha

          • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

            LOL!

    • http://www.expatlifecoach.com/blog John Falchetto

      Bill don’t hate the players, hate the game :) The numbers are verified and I wish you Godspeed in the comment race.

      • http://twitter.com/bdorman264 Bill Dorman

        You sumbich, I know you sabotaged my account. I’m still keeping the car. Now I don’t show up on the board at all. Griddy is taking this whole invisible thing way too far; it was a joke, I wasn’t really serious about being invisible……………:)

        • http://www.expatlifecoach.com/blog John Falchetto

          Don’t be a cry baby Bill, nobody said this game was easy :)

          • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

            You guys are killing me LOL!!! :)

        • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

          Bill, don’t want to make you nervous, but I have been playing possum with y’all. These comments are flying fast and furious.

          • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

            And don’t forget about me fellas….

            • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

              That’s right Nancy! Show em what the ladies are made of ;).

              • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

                You know, someone has to hold it down for the ladies around here! 😉

                • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

                  And that is exactly why I haven’t forgotten about you. 😉

              • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

                You know, someone has to hold it down for the ladies around here! 😉

              • Anonymous

                And @NancyDavis will break out the track suit and Louisville Slugger……….just sayin’….BTW, I think I’m up to 9 comments for the month. It’s like running a 100 yr dash in a diving suit…..:)

            • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

              Not forgotten or ignored. Just waiting and watching to see how you handle it all.

              • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

                Yeah, you know you forgot about me….Its alright. I am just hanging in the corner watching everyone.

              • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

                Yeah, you know you forgot about me….Its alright. I am just hanging in the corner watching everyone.

                • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

                  Nah, I never forget. I may remain silent for a while- but I am aware.

          • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

            I can’t stop laughing – you guys are hilarious and awesome! :))

        • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

          LMAO!!! Seriously – what would I do without you awesome crazy bunch?! :))))
          You rock!

      • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

        John is right.

      • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

        Spoken like a true gentleman ;).

        • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

          John is always a gentleman. He can’t be any other way.

          • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

            Indeed he is Nancy :).

    • http://www.thejackb.com/ The JackB

      Wait, did someone call out my name.

      • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

        Jeez! What do you have ultra sonar hearing or something? lol 😉 I’m not sure whether that made any sense but what the heck!

  • http://www.logallot.com Sonia

    As usual girl you out-do yourself. I really appreciated learning those tidbits about you and your fun personality. Well about me here goes:

    -Don’t be too people focused: I concentrate on what I need to be doing and less on what others aren’t doing. I find I am much more happier this way.

    -Learn to appreciate what you already have in your life now:  I count my blessings on my family and my surroundings. Allot of people in other countries have it worse then me. So when I feel a complaint coming on, I step back and look at the big picture.

    -My family is my life and my soul. Without them I wouldn’t be who I am today. 

    -Know when to admit when your wrong: I can accept my faults and own it when called for. 

    -Avoid Gossiping about others when possible: I have learned to bring a situation to a person directly, rather then talk about them behind their back. Everyone deserves the right to defend them self and set the record straight. Bad mouthing someone only makes you look stupid.

    -Associate yourself with positive people: I stay clear of “drama” and don’t mix with anyone with bad energy or a hateful personality. Misery loves company and I would rather keep them at a distance.

    -Keep your real friends close:  I am grateful I know who my real friends are.

    -Give back when possible in your community: Giving back doesn’t mean only donating money during the holiday season, but when your on top, remember those that have less then you everyday.

    -Be honest with yourself first – If you can’t trust you, then no one else will. Hiding behind lies only makes you a prisoner of your own deceit.

    -Having the Courage to speak up: Speak your mind and don’t be afraid to say what’s right.

    “The first time someone shows you who they are, believe them.” 
    — Maya Angelou
     

     

  • http://www.logallot.com Sonia

    As usual girl you out-do yourself. I really appreciated learning those tidbits about you and your fun personality. Well about me here goes:

    -Don’t be too people focused: I concentrate on what I need to be doing and less on what others aren’t doing. I find I am much more happier this way.

    -Learn to appreciate what you already have in your life now:  I count my blessings on my family and my surroundings. Allot of people in other countries have it worse then me. So when I feel a complaint coming on, I step back and look at the big picture.

    -My family is my life and my soul. Without them I wouldn’t be who I am today. 

    -Know when to admit when your wrong: I can accept my faults and own it when called for. 

    -Avoid Gossiping about others when possible: I have learned to bring a situation to a person directly, rather then talk about them behind their back. Everyone deserves the right to defend them self and set the record straight. Bad mouthing someone only makes you look stupid.

    -Associate yourself with positive people: I stay clear of “drama” and don’t mix with anyone with bad energy or a hateful personality. Misery loves company and I would rather keep them at a distance.

    -Keep your real friends close:  I am grateful I know who my real friends are.

    -Give back when possible in your community: Giving back doesn’t mean only donating money during the holiday season, but when your on top, remember those that have less then you everyday.

    -Be honest with yourself first – If you can’t trust you, then no one else will. Hiding behind lies only makes you a prisoner of your own deceit.

    -Having the Courage to speak up: Speak your mind and don’t be afraid to say what’s right.

    “The first time someone shows you who they are, believe them.” 
    — Maya Angelou
     

     

    • Al Smith

      Love these Sonia.  Thank you !

      • http://www.logallot.com Sonia

        Thanks Al, I really appreciate that!

    • http://vizsource.info/ Kim Davies

      Great list, Sonia. Super addition to Griddy’s list. Wow! I am learning a lot today. :)

      • http://www.logallot.com Sonia

        Thank you Kim! I appreciate your sentiment. That means allot when someone can learn from my past experiences. That’s simply priceless! Thanks again!

        • http://vizsource.info/ Kim Davies

          It’s my pleasure, Sonia. I always believe in letting people know that I am learning tons from them. :)

  • http://joedegiorgio.com/ Joe @ Not Your Average Joe

    As list posts go,
    you’ve put together a nice one, Griddy. My addition would be to always remember
    where you came from and the lessons that you were handed at a younger age from
    those who came before you…but you kind of stole my thunder with # 13 and 14.
    Sounds like you do that already. The rest of the list is very inspiring as well.
    It’s difficult at times to not focus on the “wrong 2%”…but it’s such a crazy
    waste of time to do so, no??
     

    • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

      Hey Joe,
      Glad you like my little golden nuggets :).
      I couldn’t agree more with what you said here – and your thunder is totally back cause I’m declaring it as being different than what I said ;).

      And yes – you’re right – it’s often quite difficult to not focus on the 2%! We get so caught up in it and then it’s only when it passes that we realize how not worth it it actually was! Oh well….

      Thanks so much for taking the time to add on to this. Nice to see you here again.
      Have a great week.

      Cheers

  • Al Smith

    Thanks so much for this Ingrid.  Brilliant writing.  I will keep this one.  Really good stuff.
    Life has taught me many lessons on my journey.
    I will share a few thoughts. (some you mentioned). 

    1. Have Gratitude, not an Attitude
    2. Stay Humble – Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less”
    3. SMILE – Our gestures are contagious. Smiling is the best.
    4. Be Honest – Mostly with yourself.
    5. Have an Open Mind – “Your mind is like a parachute, it works best when it’s Open”
    6. Be willing to CHANGE – If life aint workin out so good, take a look at yourself.
    7. Become a good Listener – We truly connect with others by listening.
    8. Help others – Especially, If you are down and feeling sorry for yourself, go help someone else.
    9. Dont Expect ….. Accept – Expectations of others are pre-meditated resentments.
    10.  Always keep a Positive Attitude – We become what we think about
    11.  Last but not least, the message I plan to share with the world …….. C.A.R.E.

    Communicate (Connect) Appreciate (Acknowledge) Respect (Recognize) Encourage and
    always be an Example.

    Quite simply, just CARE for others.  It is a simple Choice.  Choose to make a difference.
    Positive Change is possible !!

    Thanks again Ingrid.  Sorry, I couldn’t stop writing.  

    Al

    • http://vizsource.info/ Kim Davies

      Aww, I love your number three, Al. That is what I usually do to start my day. :)

  • http://trafficcoleman.com/blog/official-black-seo-guy/ Black Seo Guy

    Its true that your education will live with you forever, but the things around you won’t.

    “Black Seo Guy “Signing Off”

    • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

      Indeed it is! 
      Thanks Antonio.
      Cheers

    • http://nittygriddy.com/ Ingrid Abboud

      Indeed it is! 
      Thanks Antonio.
      Cheers

  • Erica Allison

    Thank you for sharing that with us! I truly enjoyed it and teared up a couple of times, too. You are such a gifted writer and always give it to us from your heart and your truest self, like no other.  I really do appreciate that about you.  I also appreciate your dad’s nuggets!  I’ll have to ponder this one for a bit and may hit you up with a link back here one day when I post it on my spot.

    Thanks to you and to Margie for the inspiration.
    Best,
    Erica

  • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

    Wow! Today I summed up a few life lessons over on my blog as I wrote my “last post” I will give you the highlights – laugh often, don’t be an “emotional chicken” like I have been most of my life. I have learned that I am stronger than I think, and even though I pretend not to know much, I am pretty wise in my own ways. Here goes:

    I have learned one thing through the years – don’t take for granted those you love. They might be gone tomorrow – When I left my husband six years ago, my best friend Dave helped me pay to file for divorce and helped me move. He was dead one week later. He died of a massive heart attack. He lived long enough to help me leave and get me and Douglas settled in to Dad’s house. I still see him with a Diet Coke in one hand and a Marlboro Light in the other. He loved life and he loved to laugh. I miss him dearly, but the big lesson was not to take my friends for granted.

    You never know when you are meant to leave. His work here was done.

    • http://www.expatlifecoach.com/blog John Falchetto

      So true Nancy, we never know when our turn is up. I am writing if this was my last post and boy does it put things into perspective. 
      There are people who are a bit like our guardian angels, like your friend Dave, they see us through tough times. These the ones that matter. We should aim to be like that for others.

      • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

        You know something John, his death took me so by surprise because he was not sick. I expected my Mother to die. She was, after all sick with cancer. I knew my Father would pass too, those deaths hurt, but losing Dave put life into perspective in a hurry.

        Dave certainly saw me through many hard times. Many days I still can’t listen to the Rolling Stones without thinking of him.

        I hope to one day be that for someone else. A person who watches over someone. :)

        • http://vizsource.info/ Kim Davies

          Hi, Nancy. 

          It’s the unexpected deaths that will almost always pain us the most, but they are also the ones that will make is learn more. My 13-year old brother died suddenly of aneurysm in 2003 while my 20-year old sister died of leukemia in 2008, about 11 months after she was diagnosed. My brother’s death was more painful, but it also made me look at life a bit clearer. It made me live each day as if it were my last because you never know when it’s your time to go. 

          • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

            So sorry to hear that Kim. It really does make us appreciate life. One of my friends is having a stem cell transplant today. She had a bone marrow transplant a few years ago, but her leukemia returned. Life really is precious, and many times we can forget just how precious it really is.

          • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

            So sorry to hear that Kim. It really does make us appreciate life. One of my friends is having a stem cell transplant today. She had a bone marrow transplant a few years ago, but her leukemia returned. Life really is precious, and many times we can forget just how precious it really is.

            • http://vizsource.info/ Kim Davies

              So, we make every day count, Nancy. And never hesitate to tell people we love them. That way, we leave something wonderful behind even if we are made to go suddenly. 

              • http://twitter.com/NancyD68 Nancy Davis

                Everyday I tell my son how much I love him because no matter what,I always want him to be secure in the fact that his Mommy loves him.

                • http://vizsource.info/ Kim Davies

                  Oh, that’s so great to hear, Nancy. As a mother myself, I do echo what you are saying.