“Years ago, I learned something from Brené Brown that I still use every single day:
When you get home to your spouse, kids, dog, etc…
Before you open the door,
Put a smile on your face!
It doesn’t matter how your day went. Or what you’re doing next. Or if you’re starving.
For 30 seconds, really show that you’re elated to see them.
Make them feel like you were looking forward to getting back home.
Show up. Wide eyes. Big grin. A hug or a high five.
And if you’ve had one of those days that you really don’t feel like it…
Do it anyway. At least pretend that you’re excited to see them.
After all, they’re you favorite people in the whole world. I hope.
They deserve the best version of you showing up at the front door.
You can talk about your crummy day in a minute. Right now? Start your homecoming on a high note.
Who knows. Maybe your attitude and outlook will improve because you went through the motions. Because you tried.
Showing a little gratitude for everything you have to come home to can improve a sour mood in a hurry.
Now, I know what you’re thinking:
‘That seems like a cheesy, tiny thing, man. Hardly an earth-shattering revelation.’
But your attitude sets the tone for the rest of the evening within 15 seconds of walking in the door.
So really, it’s not tiny at all. It’s a huge deal.
Because you come home every day. And the things you do every day grind on you.
Jordan Peterson says if you can fix 25 little things like ‘coming home,’ you will have an extraordinary life.
Taking your family to Disneyland is insignificant.
Your kid’s expensive birthday party will be forgotten within weeks.
The Caribbean cruise you went on is a flash in the pan.
Coming home?
That’s your whole life. Fix it.
Start today.”
This story was submitted to Love What Matters by Benjamin Holmgren. Subscribe to our free email newsletter, Living Better—your ultimate guide for actionable insights, evidence backed advice, and captivating personal stories, propelling you forward to living a more fulfilling life.
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