Testing a week of the Four Agreements
This last week I challenged myself to live my best by the Four Agreements. Though I find his writing a bit preachy, Don Miguel Ruiz develop and organized a simple guideline to live as a “better” person. These agreements are not just simple, they are also powerful and can be applied to all aspects of your life. So, let's explore how these agreements can help you live a more fulfilling life.
Agreement 1: Be impeccable with your word.
The first agreement is to be impeccable with your word. This means that you should speak with integrity, say only what you mean, and avoid using your words to speak against yourself or others. Being impeccable with your word also means that you should use your words to build others up, rather than tear them down.
Why is this important? Words have power, and they can be used to create or destroy. When we speak negatively about ourselves or others, we are sending negative energy out into the world. This can have a harmful effect on our own well-being as well as the well-being of those around us. By being impeccable with our word, we can create a more positive and uplifting environment for ourselves and those around us.
To set this as your weekly intention, start by observing how you use your words. Take note of any negative self-talk or harmful words you use towards others. Be mindful of how you speak and how it affects those around you. Make a conscious effort to speak with kindness and honesty.
Agreement 2: Don't take anything personally.
The second agreement is to not take anything personally. This means that you should not allow the opinions and actions of others to affect your own sense of self-worth. When someone says or does something that upsets you, it is often a reflection of their own beliefs and insecurities, rather than a reflection of you.
Why is this important? Taking things personally can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety. It can also cause us to react in a way that is not in alignment with our values and beliefs. By not taking things personally, we can maintain our inner peace and stay true to who we are.
To set this as your weekly intention, practice observing situations without taking them personally. When someone criticizes you or disagrees with you, try to understand their perspective without letting it affect your own self-worth. Remember that their words are not a reflection of you, but rather a reflection of their own thoughts and feelings. Practice detachment.
Agreement 3: Don't make assumptions.
The third agreement is to not make assumptions. This means that you should avoid jumping to conclusions or making assumptions about people or situations. Instead, you should ask questions and seek clarification to ensure that you have a clear understanding of what is going on.
Why is this important? Making assumptions can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunications. It can also cause us to judge others unfairly and create unnecessary conflicts. By avoiding assumptions, we can cultivate deeper and more meaningful relationships with others.
To set this as your weekly intention, practice asking questions and seeking clarity. Allow yourself a moment to reflect on what the facts are and avoid personal opinions on a topic. Take the time to gather all the information before deciding or forming an opinion. Seek clarity.
Agreement 4: Always do your best.
The fourth agreement is to always do your best. This means that you should strive to do your best in all situations, regardless of the outcome. Your best will vary from day to day, depending on your energy level and other factors. The important thing is to always give your best effort.
Why is this important? Doing your best allows you to live without regret. It also helps you to develop a powerful sense of self-discipline and personal responsibility. By always doing your best, you can cultivate a sense of pride in your accomplishments and continue to grow and learn throughout your life.
To set this as your weekly intention, focus on doing your best in all aspects of your life. This includes your work, your relationships, and your self-care. Remember that your best may vary from day to day and that's okay. What matters is that you are always striving to do your best, without being hard on yourself if it doesn't turn out as you hoped. Do only your best.
"The Four Agreements" offer a powerful way to achieve personal freedom and happiness. By being impeccable with your word, not taking anything personally, not making assumptions, and always doing your best, you can transform your life. As you set your weekly intention, focus on applying these agreements to all aspects of your life. Remember that these agreements are not just words, but a way of life that can help you cultivate deeper and more meaningful relationships with others, develop personal responsibility and discipline, and live a life without regret. So, embrace these agreements and watch your life transform for the better.
