Lily’s Rules to Live By
This is a combination of things I’ve heard Ellen Degeneres say, my own insights on life as it’s happening, misquoted phrases by famous gurus on widely distributed memes, and random statements I’ve heard that gave me an “Aha!” epiphany moment which I felt was life-changing. My little sister inspired #5 on the list.
It’s important that you know this.
No, I have not directly credited everyone else I’ve been inspired by in the creation of this list. It was my own personal list that I never planned on sharing publicly. So, I was noting the message behind their statements more than who said the words. I admit I definitely do not follow it as much as I would like to. It’s a work in progress.
Either way, here is the list.
LILY KHUU’S MORAL COMPASS:
1. Be kind to everyone. Even if they’re being a jerk. They might be having a bad day and one moment doesn’t define an entire person.
2. Stay grounded and mindful. Otherwise, you’ll float away... And probably step on somebody’s foot. Or accidentally drive your car into their house.
3. Always recognize the positives. Being optimistic doesn’t always change an icky situation, but realizing what’s good about it makes it more bearable.
4. Express gratitude often. The more specific the better. People may not notice when you thank them, but they most certainly will when you don’t.
5. Done is better than perfect. Mistakes are signs of improvement. If you don’t start doing right now, you will end up on your death bed having never tried. Favorite quote by Amy Poehler: “Doing is the thing. Not the talking about the thing that is the thing. It’s the actual doing of it that is the thing.”
6. Treat others how they want to be treated. Not everyone is the same, so the phrase “treat other’s how you want to be treated,” doesn’t work when you bring your gluten-intolerant wife your favorite chocolate wheat-flour cake.
7. It’s okay to think differently. You can still be friends with people you disagree with. Our unique experiences are what make us interesting. It’s also what gives us different perspectives from each other. And that’s okay.
8. Choose reactions wisely. We can’t control what other people say. We can’t control what other people do. But, we can control how we react. Sometimes it’s better to step away and breathe before doing anything at all.
9. Prioritize people who inspire. Make the people who positively impact your life important. If someone is providing you with joy or motivation in your life, reciprocate their nice acts with your own. Especially people who respect healthy boundaries and communicate kindly.
10. Pause. A lot. Taking a moment to think before responding to an offer or request will help you make a better decision. Saying “no” frequently and “yes” sparingly is also okay. You have one life. What you do with it is up to you. Healthy boundaries are essential for maintaining a peaceful balance.
11. Everything in life is temporary. So, be yourself and have fun! When you feel overwhelmed by a situation, know that it will eventually pass. After enough time has elapsed, it will be so forgotten it will almost have never happened.