7. Do (at least) one thing that makes you happy every day

Sounds corny, right? And yet how many of us forget to take a happy moment for ourselves? Between work, family obligations, paying bills, and so on, we lose track of what makes us happy and can spend days, and even weeks without doing something that truly delights us. Despite what some might tell you, everybody needs their “me time”, where they devote their time to something that brings them joy. There’s nothing selfish about taking care of your own needs. This is what gives you the energy to spend on others the rest of the time.

9. Listen to your gut feelings and don’t lie to yourself

A person who speaks with integrity has a powerful presence. Leave the storytelling for bedtime. Once you’re honest with yourself, you can also listen to your own advice. We often lie to ourselves, break promises and dissapoint ourselves in ways we would never inflict on others. It's important to treat yourselves with the same respect and commitment you give so freely to others.

11. In your life’s story, you’re the writer, not the reader

So often in life it seems we are being dictated the course of our day, as if a giant hand is tossing us about from event to responsibility. Get ahead of the game, try to put yourself in positions where you set the tone of your day, and you decide where you'd like to take it. Remember that others are feeling this way too.  We're all fighting to lead our lives instead of being led by them. Be pro-active and show the world you can take control of your day and lead it, instead of being led.