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THE SIX HABITS OF TRULY HAPPY PEOPLE

then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Philippians 2:2

Somebody said, ‘If you want to break a bad habit - just drop it!’ We might add, replace it with a better habit like: (1) acceptance (2) encouragement (3) listening (4) respect (5) support (6) trust. If you think this sounds simpler than it is, you’re right! But here are some beginner steps you can take to make it work: (a) Wherever you are, be there! Ask yourself: Do I encourage others? Support their choices? Listen with concern? Or do I just nod, while everything goes in one ear and out the other?’ Paul says, ‘Don’t be selfish, be interested in others, and what they are doing’ (Philippians 2:3-4). Sit down and focus on them without the interruption of cell phones, pagers, TV and other distractions. You’ll be amazed how good it feels once you develop the habit. (b) Visualize the new you! It’s easier to act your way into right thinking, than think your way into right acting. You’ll grow quicker by developing a mental image of yourself as someone who already practices these habits. (c) Choose your battles! Before you blame, complain, criticize, nag, threaten, punish or bribe, ask yourself, How important is this in the big picture? So what if the beds aren’t made perfectly or dinner’s a little late? Is it worth hurting the relationship over such issues? (d) Ask the all-important question! When you’re not sure how to handle things, ask, ‘What would Jesus do?’ Then do it!

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be more like you and practice the qualities that are evident in your life so I reflect you to others. In Your Precious Name, Amen