10 Simple Words to Live By.

Life is complicated enough. You don’t need to make it more complicated by trying to do more, say more or be more than what you know is your true self.

When things get a little crazy, it’s nice to be able to step back and take small steps to make things simpler. In fact, life can be made a little easier if you simplify things. Small, manageable chunks are less intimidating and much easier to wrap your head around.

Here are 10 simple words to live by to help you get through the toughest – and complicated – days.

Thank You

How many times do you say the words “thank you,” in a day? How many times do you hear these same words? If you are doing the first thing, saying the “thank yous,” the latter will naturally happen. After all, giving someone a sincere thanks will make them feel more appreciated and will fill you with gratitude, too. More important, say “thank you” when someone helps you, don’t just offer a required thank you. Say it like you mean it; say it with feeling.

I Love You

Why not tell the people you love how you really feel? It warms their heart and you will feel better knowing they know just how you feel. So, try this: Say, “I love you” three times a day. Don’t wait for the right moments to express your love and don’t assume the words don’t need to be spoken. Speaking love never grows tired.

I Believe

State your convictions to remind you of what you truly believe. This can give your life purpose and direction. Living a happy and fulfilling life is more about the “what” than the “how.” Focus on “what” you believe and what you want. The “how” will reveal itself naturally over time if you fully commit to the “what.”

Before You Speak, Think

Be cautious with your words and you can avoid over-complicating any situation. By saying the right words and at the right time can offer encouragement. The right words can also provide hope and give someone a boost when their energy is flagging.

I Know I Can

Establish a mindset that is conducive to reaching a goal and your dreams. You do have a special purpose in life. To find your purpose, make a list of all the things you want to accomplish in your life. The one that jumps off the page and makes you begin to cry is your purpose – know that you can fulfill that purpose!

You’re Welcome

Learn to accept gratitude and compliments and the blessings they offer. It might seem simple but compliments are made to be received as is. Your role on the other side is merely to receive. There is no lack of humility in receiving a compliment. A compliment received is gratitude shown to the giver.

I Appreciate You

Let a friend know just how much you appreciate their friendship; be sincere. A simple “thank you” in response to a trivial or ordinary item can make a significant difference. It only takes a few short moments to utter these two words, but the impact can be felt for a very long time.

I Won’t Give Up

Dig deep and find that determination. Make “I won’t give up” your mantra. Anything worth having is worth fighting for – no matter how long it takes. Know you do have the strength, the resolve, to confront any challenge and to learn from the setbacks you encounter along the way.

I Am Happy

Name one thing you are happy about and affirm it verbally to yourself in the mirror. Remember that happiness is a choice. Each day you can either choose to face the day with a positive attitude or allow the obstacles and setbacks to overwhelm you and make you feel anxious and angry.

I Will Forgive

Holding onto anger hurts you. Forgive and move on, and you will not have to waste time living in the past any longer. Forgiveness is an act of love and compassion. In times of extreme pain, if you are willing to soften your heart, let some of your protective guard down, and be willing to be vulnerable, many miracles can happen.

Beliefnet.com