365 Days of Living the Dale Carnegie Principles
Day 70. Friday, June 3, 2011
I was at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office waiting to get my Driver’s License renewed. A chair became available in the second row so I sat down beside a young ‘lady’ we will call “Suzie”.
I quickly observed Suzie and her friend Camille were criticizing everyone. As number 154 was called, a tall teenage girl stood up with her father and two of her friends. She stood in front of the white panel, got her photo taken etc. While all of this was unfolding—Suzie and Camille—reminded me of why I love the Dale Carnegie principles.
Suzie: “Why did that girl bring all these people with her?”
Camille: “They are high schoolers. They have nothing better to do.”
They continued to criticize these individuals—who fortunately—weren’t anywhere near earshot of Suzie and Camille.
My thoughts on the tall girl being criticized: “wow—that’s cute that her father came to “support” his daughter—it’s probably her 16th birthday. Her friends are young, innocent and oblivious to the cruelty of people like “Suzie and Camille”. Good for them.”
The Dale Carnegie principle I used is from How to Stop Worrying and Start Living:
Do not imitate others.
My experience sitting at the DMV reminded me of the great value of living the Dale Carnegie principles. Despite the behaviors of Suzie and Camille—I managed to find the good in my surroundings. I observed a father who cared enough to spend quite a bit of time waiting at the DMV with his daughter. I saw his daughter’s friends who were comfortable in their skin. They were young and happy.
My lesson to you—don’t imitate others’ negativity. Focus on creating your own happiness. I guarantee you will come out ahead.
Housekeeping / Notes:
If you read Day 69 you may be wondering… did I follow through and take a half day off from work? I did indeed! I was encouraged to follow through by my friend Avery.
The Smiling Daffodil 