The shortest distance between two points is a simple, direct line. The most effective, fulfilling way to live life is to live it directly.
When some particular task must be done, you could waste a lot of time and energy on resentment, anger, avoidance and procrastination. Or you can simply get busy and get it done.
When you make a mistake, you could put a lot of wasted effort into covering it up, crafting an excuse, or pretending that it did not happen. What's best, though, is to simply accept it, admit it, deal with the consequences, and move along.
In order to be accepted and liked by others, you could labor endlessly so as to live in the right neighborhood, drive the right car, wear the right clothes and eat in the right restaurants. Or, you can simply be genuine, considerate, respectful, friendly and helpful.
If your life is continuously running up against complications and frustrations, stop and ask yourself what it is you truly want. Then consider that there is very likely a more direct way.
Seek to be more direct in your words, your actions, your plans and your thoughts. You'll make far more progress when your energy is focused along a sure and direct path.
-- Ralph Marston
