life is too short

In an effort to start the year in an optimistic and maybe even naive way, I'm stealing Marc and Angel's "20 Things Life Is Too Short To Tolerate" and putting my own spin on their list. I may even change up some of their ideas... bolded thoughts will be theirs, and italisized will be mine. Here we go...

20 Things Life Is Too Short To Tolerate

Starting now, stop tolerating…

1. People who bring you down. – As much as you can help it, spend time with people who lift you up and challenge you. People who make you feel good, and people who are positive and smart.
2. A work environment or career field you hate. – If you hate your job... think about what would make you happier. Then CHANGE IT. Is it your work environment-- the people, the hours, the office space, your daily tasks, your boss, what? No one is 100% happy at their job all the time, but I certainly know people who are happier than others.
3. Your own negativity. – I am SO guilty of this. I say mean things to myself in my head. I need to stop. And so do you! If you catch yourself thinking something negative, try to change your thinking about it in your head. I know it's harder than it may seem, but you can do it!
4. Unnecessary miscommunication. – If you don't understand something, keep asking questions until you know for sure.
5. A disorganized living and working space. – If you don't use it, get rid of it. Whatever it is, you probably won't miss it if it's gone. And trust me, the extra space and less clutter will just make you breathe easier.
6. Your own tardiness. – 9 times out of 10, snoozing after your alarm goes off does nothing but make you more tired and rushed and anxious and cranky. Get up earlier, and make that your new normal.
7. Pressure to fit in with the crowd. – I know I spend too much time worrying about what other people will do, or what they think. Do what you want, and don't just agree to be agreeable. Oftentimes, people will respect you for having a different point of view.
8. An unhealthy body. – It's not about being skinny or toned or ripped or jacked. It's about feeling good, day to day, and liking what you see in the mirror. If you don't like it, we all know how to exercise and eat better. And if you're motivated, set goals.. and then tackle them.
9. Fear of change. – Life is change.  Every day is different.  Every day is a new beginning and a new ending.  Embrace it and make the best of it.
10. All work and no play. – Have a weekly date night with your best friend or your boyfriend. Have something fun to look forward to after you put in a day's work.
11. People or beauty ads that make you feel inadequate. – You're different, and that's what makes you cool.
12. Not getting enough sleep. – Or too much sleep!
13. Doing the same exact thing over and over again. – You can't get different results by continuing to do the same thing.
14. Personal greed. – Volunteer. Give. It will make you feel better when you do splurge and get yourself something nice.
15. A mounting pile of debt. – If you don't have the money sitting in front of you, DON'T spend it!!
16. Dishonesty. – Don't lie, and don't tolerate people who do.
17. Infidelity. – This goes for friendships, too- if someone isn't being true to you, in any way, they aren't worth keeping around! (see #1).
18. An unsafe home. – (OK, I don't have anything to say about this one)
19. Being unprepared. – Keep a coat in your car just in case you get stuck somewhere. Carry cash. Be responsible.
20. Inaction. – You can talk and think about something ALL DAY LONG. Pull the trigger. Apply to that cool job. Ask him out. BUY a plane ticket to see someone you want to see. Ask for a raise. Do it.

Hope this list inspired you to be better- it certainly inspired me!