Rules for Everyday Life

I recently received a request to share the text from our scarf—the one where I gathered the little “rules” that have become my everyday motto.

As I searched for it, I found myself reading it over a few times. And I thought…

These simple reminders are far too important to forget. In fact, they’re worth repeating from time to time—even if only quietly to ourselves.

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If you’re angry, count to ten. If that doesn’t help, count to twenty.

When your emotions start to boil over, don’t slam the door. Tomorrow, you might be the one who needs to open it again.

Don’t give up. Whenever life feels difficult, remember: there is no such thing as “I can’t.” Sometimes, there’s only “I must.”

Feeling sad? Always remember: this too shall pass.

Don’t lose control. We are responsible for our own words and actions, no matter what kind of day we’re having.

Never hold back a kind word. If you think something is beautiful, if someone has done something well—say it. Unspoken kindness never changes anyone’s day, but spoken kindness can work wonders.

Take action. The only road from wanting to having is doing.

Be happy—on your own terms. Don’t wait for someone else to make you happy.

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first, so you’ll have something to give to others.

But give yourself wisely.

And always remember: if you give all of yourself to everyone, what will be left for those who deserve your love the most?

Don’t spend your life getting ready to live tomorrow.

Live today.

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V.