Day 4_Turn Around

Aloha!

Let's begin with a video that shows there's always one important fact that, if you knew, would change the way you talk to someone.

Go to the video icon and take a look.

Let us know what you thought when you've finished.

Does the message describe how you feel sometimes, alone, frustrated and misunderstood?

Did you notice that the guy's perception was off? There was one, important fact that he couldn't possibly have known about the person he was trying to be nice to.

And yet all she had to do was turn around and see that her own activity was blocking her from receiving a really nice compliment.

His perception and even mistrust was blocking him. There was a connection right there waiting to be made where both would have felt better about themselves.

Things weren't what they seemed. He didn't need to feel alone or misunderstood or judged because none of it applied.

But he couldn't see that. Does that relate to your situation in any way?

How often do you feel insecure about going just a little past your comfort zone to let people into your life to support you?

Nearly everyone feels insecure about something.

What's true about insecurities is that perspective helps to blunt their impact. Being willing to adjust your perspective is the first step in being able to trust.

When you 'turn around' and see that the thing that made you nervous or awkward doesn't stop people from liking or respecting you, then you open yourself to having the very thing that you thought would never be possible.

Turn around. Look. See.

There are people staring back at you who think well of you. Just start with that.

Name the people in your life who seem to like you and treat you well.

What do you think they saw that you didn't see?

How frequently do you let them into your life and allow them to get to know you?

Over the next 24 hours, notice people at school, work, or around your neighborhood.

If someone looks back, smile. Hold their gaze long enough to say hello. Ask how their day is going.

See where that takes you. It's not meant to go much farther than a short conversation. The point is to notice that there are friendly people out there who, if given the chance, could be very encouraging.

Make it a habit to notice others, look them in the eye and talk to them. If they don't talk back, then maybe they just can't hear you.

How willing are you to make the effort to be heard?

As you head out the door, keep in mind that you're likable and worthy of respect.

Agreed?