What was the most life-changing piece of psychological advice you’ve ever received (college, problems)

[H8t3rs]

dont go on a date with a loaded gun.

[ocpaul20]

Originally Posted by Sonic_Spork

I have seen that movie, my memories of it are somewhat vague but I remember finding it to be delightfully silly.

In my teen years I'd pretty well decided that I didn't want anything to do with mainstream Christian religion, but I had a deep desire for philosophy, and after lightly perusing and discarding a bunch of popular woo-woo alternative faith systems, I decided simply to embrace concepts that resonated as I found them, and get on with my life.

I've encountered Jewish people who described bits of philosophy that I loved. I've encountered a whole lot to love in Buddhist philosophies as well.

At a young age, I listened to a book-on-tape of "Jonathan Livingston Seagull" and as an adult I was gifted a copy by a beloved Aunt. I read it again every few years. I can't think of a specific quickie quote that leaps out at me, but the overall idea of rejecting limitations and meaningless clutter-ideas that distract us, and just setting out to be the best self you can, with kindness and love at the core... Well, it was a big influence.

To pivot a little bit from big, philosophical ideas and point to a phrase that has helped me deal with everyday life as an adult with ADD, and one who cannot abide the meds... "Break it up into manageable pieces." That's helped a lot. Husband gave me that, though he likely did not originate it on his own. Any time I am faced with anything overwhelming, I break it up into small pieces and deal with them one at a time. It helps a lot.

I like "Illusions" better, but they are both good books by Richard Bach. I believe there is an Illusions 2 now too.

[allthatglitters]

Stop being self-conscious - other people don't see your "flaws".

[king john IV]

"every contest is unfair".
told to me by my best boss.

in other words, anything is unfair to somebody.
however, the next one might be in your favor
and unfair to someone else.

choose your battles, and wait
for when the time is right.

[katharsis]

"You can't control other people, you can only control yourself" (and your reactions to other people)

[I_Play_Poker]

When you are facing an important decision in your life , don't just think of the good things you are hoping will come from it. It is important to think it all the way through. You need to also not just dream of the best scenario but look at it realistically and also know what the worst case scenario is because it could happen. Always hoping for the best , but being prepared for the worst.

[glass_of_merlot]

fake it till you make it. lol

[Bootsamillion]

Originally Posted by Jill_Schramm

The title says it all:

What was the most life-changing piece of psychological advice or words of wisdom you have ever received.

For me:

”If you are wondering what people are thinking about you, don’t worry, they aren’t”

OR.... it is none of your business what other people are thinking about you. They are entitled to their own thoughts just like you.

[LookinForMayberry]

"This too shall pass."

[michael917]

Accepting the bad things that happen to you, rather than agonize and/or fume over them. Getting upset only makes you feel worse, and in no way changes what's happening to you.