A friend of mine, who is an author, is known for his love of quotes by famous people. In almost all of his books and published articles, you will find international wisdom and advice in snappy phrases and quotes.
But he has a favorite one by George Bernard Shaw:
People are always blaming circumstances for what they are. I do not believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and if they cannot find them, they make them!
My friend actually had the last phrase of that quote posted on the dash of his car. It was a daily reminder and focus phrase that got his attention every time he started the engine.
I too have favorite quotes posted around. In fact, they are handwritten on the wall in my office. Coming in and going out, one will catch my eye, settle my thoughts and quite often give me the oompf I need through a challenging situation.
Action – Today, find at least one of your best-loved quotes and paste it, post it or write it somewhere you will see it every day.
Refer to it whenever you need a little reminder, gentle hug or kick in the pants.
(Originally broadcast June 5, 2009)