Living the Good Life: Defined Direction

After a little reflection, I realized my moral compass has already been calibrated based on set parameters. I have already spent the time to thoughtfully consider the framework that define how I live a good life. My "Essential Eleven"* are a seven elements of "Defined Direction."

Living the Good Life: Defined Direction

Trust.            

Confidence in others. Developed and maintained through honesty and integrity. Often times you cannot have trust without respect and also cannot have respect without trust. The greater trust someone has in you, the greater your ability to positively impact others. And, others have a great trust in you display passion. 

Integrity. 

Consistency in character and honesty. Continually acting according to values, beliefs and principles. Serves as a cornerstone for trust. 

Influence. 

Ability to positively impact others'. Strive each and every day to have a positive impact on others. Your influence may help others to make a positive change, accept an unsettling reality, and live their good life.  

Optimism.

Having a positive outlook helps you to have a greater positive impact on others. Yes, there is complete merit in being honest about the realities. I live in a world of realities and it's often my job to provide a reality check. But, someone has to be optimistic. You might be the only person that is optimistic about a situation and gives hope to someone who is dependent on your influence. Also, the more positive your outlook, the happier you'll be. 

Respect. 

Respect for yourself and for others. You do not have the right to respect; you must earn it. If you first respect yourself, then others will follow suit. Respect is not defined by being liked; you can be revered with great respect by someone who does not 'like' you, your personality, beliefs, etc. 

Passion. 

Find true happiness in your actions and interactions. Be passionate about your life and relationships. How can you have a positive impact on those you interact with if you're not passionate about your time with them -- even if only brief moments? Be passionate about your life's work. Find something that makes you happy and work at it, then it won't really seen like 'work' or a 'job.' If you are passionate about your 'job,' you will be able to have a greater influence on others. 

Family. 

Blood and marriage do not define family. You can have multiple families whose relationships are defined differently. There are many types of love, and anyone you care about, you love. You still love people even if they frustrate you, make you angry, or upset you. Anyone you love is part of your family. Your family changes as you change. As we move through life, our family grows. Love has no capacity and neither does our family. Often times our 'friends' compose one or more of our 'families.

*The "Essential Eleven" define Aseem Rastogi's moral compass.