12 Commandments of Leigh

In one of my favorite books (which I talk about endlessly), The Happiness Project, the author (Gretchen Rubin) decides to create twelve personal commandments which she follows. I decided to follow her lead and create twelve commandments of my own. These are guiding principles that will help me in everyday life- to be the best person I can be…..and not make stupid, impulsive decisions.

1) Be Leigh. I copied this one from Gretchen (her first commandment is to “Be Gretchen”). To unapologetically be myself. I don’t drink, I don’t smoke, I don’t do shrooms. And I’m perfectly okay with that.

2) Remember what makes you happy. A lot of the time I allow myself to get into these funks without taking care of myself. A brisk walk or listening to my “Feel Good” playlist or a bubble bath will do wonders to boost my mood. Usually, I’m just too lazy to remember.

3) Pray in bathtubs and cars. This one is a bit of a joke but it's true. Those are the two places I find myself praying most. In cars, I pray we won’t get into accidents; in the bathtub, I contemplate life and pray about everything else.

4) Back up your work. I know many a writer that laments that they did not do this.

5) Engage your five senses. Engaging my five senses- simply being more attuned to them- makes me so happy. Today I spotted a goldfinch Dad pointed out. It looked beautiful.

6) Phone a friend- or your doctor. This is a reminder you are not alone but some things only your doctor can help you with. This is especially important when I suspect I might be manic. And only my doctor can (legally) prescribe medication.

7) Don’t force it. This is true for relationships, friendships, and poems.

8) When in doubt, no. I have a tendency to be impulsive especially when I get manic so I always have to think twice about things. Be Leigh, but don’t be stupid.

9) Radical acceptance makes you happier. It’s true. When you go with it, it’s easier.

10) Stand up. I meant this in two ways: 1) get your lazy butt off the chair and do something. I also meant to stand up for what you believe in. I don’t like when people trash cops in my presence. I intend to say something.

11) It all adds up. This mostly addresses to do a little work on projects each day because eventually, you’ll get it done. However, eating out adds up- on your belly and your bank account.

12) Stop dumping your clothes on the floor of your bedroom (pretty self-explanatory).

So what are your personal commandments? It’s actually very fun to make a list. And a rainy day like today is the perfect day to do it.