Upright and Mobile

One of the good habits I acquired three years ago when the pandemic upended normality, is that I take my dog for a walk at the McAllister Park Dog Park almost every day. Over the years, I’ve made friends with the dog park regulars: Dominic and his German Shepard Max; Susan the retired teacher who smells like teen spirit and her mutts; the reclusive lady who sits on a table and smokes by herself and is a mystery to me; the retired Vet with a Weiner Dog named Doug; and the happiest guy I know, Stanley, with his two dog mutt crew. Everyday I see Stanley, and it’s most days, he greets me with a smile. When I ask him how's it going, he always replies, “Upright and Mobile”. Can’t think of a much better way to begin your day: at the dog park, upright and mobile.

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Never Give Up

I know, it’s a cliche – but isn't most of the motivational psychology at this point? When you find yourself down in a ditch mentally or physically, it works to remind yourself that people never gave up in much more trying circumstances. I mean seriously, did we quit when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor? Never give up.

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Dare to Suck

A few years ago the manager of the Chicago Cubs, Joe Madden, coined a phrase and printed it on paraphernalia to start the season: Try Not to Suck. It worked out really well for the Cubs as they won the World Series and vanquished the curse of the Billy Goat. This is a variation on that theme. I like it because it has to do with taking chances. When you take the leap and do something new, you are going to suck at it. Don’t be afraid, dare to suck. You will be better off for trying.

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Be the Exception

My boys have tried to use this on me, and I hear it from their friends: everyone else was doing it. As a parent, you know what I am talking about. I’ve used this retort a few time, and it has served me well – be the exception. When you are presented with a situation that calls for clarity, don’t blend in – be the exception.

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Finish Your Week Strong!

Stand tall. Big Big. I’m grateful to be Upright and Mobile today. I hope this post finds you in a similar state of being.

Cheers!