A Bad Sign

"If absolutely no one is upset or displeased with your choices in life, I would consider that a bad sign."

-- John Kehoe. The Practice of Happiness, p.19.

Playing to the crowd doesn't work. Sure, you can play the game of life so as not to upset anyone, but oh what a boring life it would be! You'd be trading acceptance by the masses for your one and only soul -- not a very savvy bargain! And to gain that acceptance you'd undoubtedly have to lie, either to others, or to yourself.

I'm not saying that you should never take into account others feelings when making a decision. I am saying, especially if the decision is an important one, that others feelings should not be the primary basis on which you choose.

Many times in life, no matter what you do, even if you do nothing, somebody will find fault with you. Let them. And then, unless you really, truly respect them on this issue, or love them tremendously, ignore them. If you've been paying attention to your own life, if you know yourself inside and out, you are your own expert on what's best for you. You may not be 100% sure, but that's life -- no money back guarantees.

So, today when a decision arises, look to yourself first, and then let the chips fall where they may. Don't be cavalier about it, just be true to you. As you move through your life today, let the refrain from that old Ricky Nelson tune, Garden Party, echo in your head. "But it's alright now. I've learned my lesson well. See you can't please everyone, so you gotta please yourself."