Standards are the conduct we hold ourselves to and they are also the rules that we use to make choices in our lives. If you want to raise the quality of your life, then you’ll need to raise your standards. Now may be the time to consider what you will no longer tolerate again, at a higher level. I’ve included a list of some higher standards that you might wish to incorporate into your own life. These are suggestions to consider. As you read through the list, observe your feelings and circle any that you’d like to adopt as new standards for yourself, check off any that you already have in place and cross off any that don’t interest you.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
I no longer rush or use adrenaline to get the job done.
I wake up naturally and don’t use an alarm clock.
I live with pets.
I live without pets.
I speak up when someone says something thoughtless or unkind.
I do not compromise myself or my needs in order to satisfy someone else’s. (Mother’s take note, yes, you may be getting up at 2am to feed the baby, but that means you’ll need a nap some time during the day).
I eat organic food.
I recycle everything I can.
I have an excellent bookkeeper and accountant to balance my accounts and pay my bills.
I stop reading books that aren’t sufficiently interesting or enjoyable to merit my time.
I never allow junk mail into the home. I sign up for junk mail prevention services and/or have a recycling bin at the door.
I check my email and voice mail once or twice a day maximum.
I only eat when I’m hungry.
I do not overeat. I stop eating before I feel full.
I chew my food thoroughly, enjoying every morsel.
I drink plenty of fresh, filtered water throughout the day.
I drive fuel efficient cars or use public transportation.
I only work with professionals who treat me with respect (doctors, lawyers, bankers, etc.)
I do not gossip.
I get help and immediately seek qualified professional advice when dealing with difficult situtions, . I no longer try to handle things alone.
I have excellent, qualified experts to help me handle legal, financial and technical issues or problems.
I only use credit cards if I can pay them off in full each month.
I don’t have anything in the house that is broken, damaged, torn or ugly. Everything is either beautiful or useful.
I don’t go to events or social engagements unless I really want to.
I don’t get caught up in other people’s problems. I surround myself with inspiring and problem-free people.
All my clothes fit and make me look great. I don’t keep clothes I hope to fit into some day.
I have found a form of exercise that is enjoyable and keeps me fit and strong. I do not torture myself or punish myself with exercise.
I follow a personalized nutrition plan and only eat the food that I enjoy.
I take care of myself. I never go to work when I feel sick or exhausted.
I never take phone calls or text during meals or while driving.
I never accept verbal abuse from anyone, especially not my boss.
I have learned to say no gracefully and no longer feel bad about saying no.
I do not spend time with friends or family members I do not enjoy.
I know what I like and do not let family members, the fashion industry or others dictate my choice of clothes, automobile, house or lifeystyle.
My home is clear and clean of all clutter. If I haven’t used it in a year, it goes to charity.
I have a virtually paper-free office. Everything is now online.
I spend one hour of quality time with my children, friends or family every day.
I work on my big or special project first, before opening emails or voicemail.
Homework:
Post your new and improved list of standards on the fridge or bathroom mirror where you’ll see it every day. You can use the above list as a starting point. Feel free to add and delete as you wish. Commit that these are your new standards and remember to install bigger boundaries if you need to using the 4-Step Communication Model. The point of this program is to stretch yourself, to raise your standards beyond what they currently are. Pick a few to start with and then add more as you are ready.
Ten Minute Option:
Same as above.
