My personal list of Do's & Don'ts....

“ Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others, cannot keep it from themselves. ”- James M. Barrie

I love this quote. I love the idea of being sunshine for someone else and making sure that my own life remains full of sunshine as well. I think that far too often we get caught up in our own little world and as a result we lose sight of the impact that our lives have on others. We forget how often our smallest actions have large impact on those around us. Lately life has been giving me a bit of a kick in the butt and in doing it so has offered me the opportunity to reflect on some mistakes I have made, lessons that I have learned and things I would still like to learn, try, do, create.... So, here is my personal list of Do's & Don'ts. Please feel free to add your own as well :)

• Do believe in yourself.
• Don't be afraid to make mistakes.
• Do apologize when you hurt someone's feelings or do something wrong and Do mean it.
• Do open your heart and love freely.
• Don't take people for granted.
• Do stand up for yourself and fight for what you believe in - even when it isn't easy.
• Don't let people tell you that you aren't good enough, smart enough, strong enough, beautiful enough, rich enough, etc.
• Do treat others with respect. (Do recognize that not everyone will always deserve it but be the kinder person and attempt to always treat people with fairness.)
• Don't let people walk all over you or take advantage of you.
• Do take time out for the things that make you happy - pedicures, hot baths, good books, episodes of General Hospital, new flip flops....
• Don't talk badly about others - it will always come back to hurt you.
• Do believe in the power of something - whether it be feminism, pilates, karma, chocolate or something totally and uniquely yours.
• Don't let anyone else tell you what you have to believe in.
• Do be creative.
• Don't let people or obstacles stand in the way of your dreams.
• Do find your passion - whether it be easily defined or more abstract. Find something you feel connected to and let yourself be moved by it and inspired.