Some years ago, Don Miguel Ruiz wrote a book called The Four Agreements. It’s lessons are as powerful today as they were when they were first published:
- Be impeccable with your word
- Don’t take anything personally
- Don’t assume
- Always do your best
All simple truths and excellent principles for inner happiness. Let’s face it, always doing your best and being impeccable with your word are pretty good foundational principles for anyone. And “don’t assume” is unbeatable as sound advice for life and for business. How many times are inaccurate assumptions the root cause of problems? Too many in my experience. In the end, communication and empathy are key. Think how often business gets derailed by someone taking something too personally. The only way through is to stay focused on the idea, the issue, the facts and the solution. Check your ego at the door and you’ll be amazed at how fast stuff can move, and how even the most complex issues can be resolved. This is not even to mention the reduced damage to your psyche, and the subsequent improvement in your happiness quotient. The Four Agreements has been around for a while, but it’s a book that is definitely worth reading.
