Make Your Life Meaningful
A life of integrity is a life with meaning.
This page lists simple but powerful ways to live with integrity. Apply this Rotary 4-Way Test to everything you think, say, or do.
- Is it the truth?
- Is it fair to all concerned?
- Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
- Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
It may help you identify what it is in life that matters most to you - your bottom-line principles - so that you will be more likely to make decisions that ring true to your conscience.
Think about the people who have been the most influential in your life. What qualities do you admire about them? What qualities have you gained from them?
Define, in concrete terms, what you would like to be, do and have in your days on this planet.
Reflect on the roles that you fill in your life: for example: father, husband, wife, financial advisor, physician. Write a brief statement of how you would like to be described in each particular role. By identifying life roles, you will gain perspective and balance. By writing descriptive statements, you will begin to visualize your highest self. You will also identify your core principles and the values you desire to live by.
Write a draft of your personal mission statement. This will take some time and thought on your part. Carry this draft with you and make notes and changes whenever you desire, for a mission is not an end result, but a journey.
Call or write someone you haven't spoken to in a long time, just to say that you are thinking about her or him.
Smile and say "hello" to someone you don't know.
While you are waiting for service at the deli counter, trade ticket numbers with someone in a hurry.
There is always some beauty in nature, sunshine, freedom, in yourself. Look at these things, then find yourself again, and God, and then you will regain your balance.
4. Sign up to volunteer in your community.
There are many medicines and cures for all kinds of illnesses, but nothing like the caring hand of a volunteer extended in love.
3. Start a gratitude journal.
By focusing on the things that are great in your life, you will have more energy to become the kind of person you would like to be. Simply get an inexpensive notebook and take a few moments each day to note those things or people that are blessings.
5. Say "I'm sorry" to someone you've hurt.
Making amends helps you as much as the person you are apologizing to. By saying those two words, you will be able to move forward.
6. Make a personal commitment to the 4-Way Test.
Commit to making the 4-Way Test a conscious part of all you do in your everyday life - in your relationships at work, in your personal relationships with friends and family, and YES, with your ADVERSARIES.
