A Manifesto For The New Year

Dear Friends,

Trust your gut.

But don’t allow yourself to be led by blind faith.

Remember that what we thought we knew for sure a decade ago is not necessarily the same thing we know for sure today.

History repeats itself.

Rebel. Always. And fervently.

When you find yourself, don’t let go.

Be an artisan.

Strive.

Jump.

Fear is not your master.

Eat good food.

Gratitude and Irritation are not mutually exclusive emotions. Have both at the same time whenever possible.

Pause.

Reflect.

Love so fiercely it hurts. And then do it some more.

Discomfort deepens character. Lean into it.

Say what you mean. Every time.

Apologize less.

The languages that matter are universal. They do not depend on words.

Give less. Do more.

The horse will drink from the stream to which he led himself. Your job is to facilitate the journey.

Shoot straight. And often.

Always get back on.

Work smart and hard.

Intentions follow actions.

Take action.

Skills, knowledge, and experiences are irrevocable. Hoard them.

Value Liberty.

Seek joy.

Practice gratitude.

Break rules.

Celebrate often.

Read everything. Believe almost nothing.

Plant twice as many seeds as you wish to grow.

Keep your bootstraps in good condition. You never know when you might have to pull yourself up.

Pull yourself up.

Pull others up.

Sometimes, if others get too close to the edge, you have to let them fall.

Sometimes, you have to fall.

And then pull yourself back up.

Absorb compliments.

Deflect cruelty.

Be with the people and in the places that energize you as much as possible.

Surround yourself with beauty.

Be kind to yourself.

Push yourself.

Drink tea everyday.

Drink wine many days.

Paint.

Open your eyes wide enough to see opportunities. And then seize them.

Speak.

Listen.

Think.

Write.

Shoot. The other kind this time.

Above all, have a beautiful 2013.

And whenever possible? Breathe fire.

Love, Me.