I sincerely believe that it is better to give than receive.
Don’t get me wrong, I definitely enjoy an unexpected surprise, but for true soul fulfillment nothing beats delighting others.
Many people think of delight as a feeling you derive from something else. You take delight in visiting the beach or being with your grandchildren. If someone asks you to lunch, you might be delighted to join them. When your heart is filled with joy, your life is filled with delight.
However, delight doesn’t always have to be about receiving. It can be about giving as well. Instead of always being on the taking end go out and delight others instead.
Think about what you can do to brighten the day of the people you meet.
I’m not necessarily talking about doing things for people – though an unsuspected favor could be quite delightful. I’m talking about how you present yourself to the world and how you share your external emotions. It’s about being delightful.
When someone asks me about my day, I don’t provide them with a laundry list of daily grievances. Instead, I try to be delightful and surprise people with a sunny demeanor. Try it sometime! I promise you they’ll respond in kind. That level of positivity is contagious, and attracts others to your outlook. Think of that good friend who always makes you smile and laugh whenever you are together. That person is a delight to be around. Be like her. Exude joy with everything you do.
I seek to delight those around me.
I make it my goal to go that extra mile for my clients and customers. I want them to be happy, not just in the work I do, but in their everyday interactions. I know it can be a struggle sometimes, but try to show courtesy to your co-workers and associates even when you don’t think they deserve it. Stick to the higher ground and be gracious.
I make a point to be present in the moment and truly listen to what others have to say.
It can be an effort sometime to keep my attention focused, but much wisdom can be gained through listening to what others have to say. Laugh at a funny joke or express sympathy after a sad story. Ask questions or give advice when appropriate. A lot of people just want to be heard. Let them know you are there.
I’ve learned not to conceal my inner self. Instead I’ve begun to smile from my heart and show people the true, authentic me. I warmly recommend you do the same. People take delight in knowing the real you, and not just a false image you project in public. Let down your guard and worry less about what others think.
I’m gaining comfort with myself and carry my head held high with assurance. Confidence breeds even more confidence – not just for yourself but for others as well. During times of uncertainty, many seek a leader who knows what she is doing. By staying positive you become that ray of light in the middle of the dark storm. Your delightfulness brings them comfort in an otherwise difficult time.
I invite you to share your delights with others.
Soak in the wonders of the world and bask in the thrill of new experiences. Inspire others to do the same. Delight your children or grandchildren with wonderful life stories and encourage them to follow their own joy. Delight those around you and you will live a delightful life.
*As previously published in the July issue of Soulwoman eMagazine. You can download the current issue of Soulwoman eMagazine at http://soulwomansanctuary.com/emagazine