Your To-Do List For Success! Part 2

I'm back! Aren't you the lucky ones? I've got Part 2 of your Success List. And it's a good one! Following these tips will guide you on the road to a more successful life. So let's begin.

1) Apologize if you're wrong.

Most situations can be fixed with a genuine apology. Pride, however, usually gets in the way. You might think that if you apologize you're giving something up. That's not what it means. If you're wrong, a sincere apology can go a long way in fixing a hurtful situation. You're not giving anything up. You're making things right. You'll be surprised at how many people will say, "Oh, it's OK." Or, "I was wrong as well. I'm sorry too," after they hear a truthful apology. If you're wrong about something, say so. It feels better to be in a good relationship, than to be sitting on an imaginary pedestal alone.

2) If what you're going to say is mean, stay silent.

Let's face it, you're human, right? And sometimes you think mean things about others. But just because you think it, doesn't mean you have to say it. You can remain silent and allow the moment to pass. Remember, once you say something, it's out and cannot be unsaid. Those nasty words can cause a lot of pain for someone. Think about your motivation for wanting to say something hurtful. And do you honestly think it will make things better? The answer is obviously no. So, next time you're champing at the bit to say something cruel, pay the person a compliment instead.

3) Pay back your debts.

If you borrow money, pay it back. If you are lent anything by anyone, don't think it's yours; take care of it and return it in the condition in which it was given to you. I am a book fanatic. I once, reluctantly, lent a book to a friend. I typically don't like lending books because people don't normally take care of them like I do. I told my friend to handle it with care. Books are my baby, after all. Unfortunately, when the book was returned, it was bent and looked like it had been thrown across a room. In fact, it had. She and her boyfriend had gotten into a fight and my baby was used as a weapon. Whatever you borrow, take care of it. And if you happen to borrow money, please return it. Your honor is at stake.

4) If you say you're going to do it, do it. Be a person of your word.

It's easy to say things. Words can sound really good, especially when you're telling people all the great things you're going to do. But are you really going to do them? Words are nice, but action is unbeatable. Follow through with whatever you say you're going to do. Be an honorable person. And if you're not sure you can do it, don't say you will.

5) Take criticism without becoming defensive. You might learn something.

Criticism can be a wonderful thing and an impetus for growth. It's a matter of getting the ego out of the way. I paint. Love it. My father, also a painter, looks often at my work and makes suggestions for improvement. This is called Constructive Criticism. At first, the hairs on the back of my neck would go up. I thought my painting was great. Despite the fight I'd initially put up, I usually ended up making the changes. And guess what? My paintings would improve. A lot! I listen to criticism now. It is a great way to learn. Pick out what resonates as truth, discard the rest. Let's face it, we don't know everything. Someone may see something we don't. Allow them to tell us. It's one of the best opportunities for growth!