Building on our recent pet therapy theme, guest blogger Debbie Gisonni shares her insights on what her own beloved dogs have taught her about life. We agree!
10 Things Dogs Teach Us About What Matters Most
Dogs are a constant source of love and amusement, but even more so, they can teach us some of the greatest life lessons.
- Live in the moment. Although dogs remember everything, they only access that information when they need it — in the moment. Whether they’re eating a bowl of kibble or chasing a ball, dogs live for the present moment.
- Overcome fear with love. There are plenty of stories about frightful, aggressive dogs who transformed into kind, gentle dogs after they were placed in a loving environment. Dogs can overcome their fear and insecurities through love, and so can humans.
- Don’t hold grudges. Humans are probably the only species that holds a grudge. A dog will never be angry with you because you didn’t give him a treat after dinner last night. Let grudges go and you will create your own personal freedom.
- Play every day. Dogs love to play, which usually involves lots of movement, whether it’s running, chasing, or jumping. This is a good reminder for us to play and move our bodies every day. Playing opens up your mind and spirit to all kinds of new ideas and creativity.
- 5. Jump for joy when you’re happy. Have you ever seen a dog circling around or jumping up and down at the thought of getting a treat or chasing a ball? Wouldn’t it be fun if we could all jump around when we’re excited about something?
- Accept yourself. Can you imagine a terrier wishing she were a boxer or a poodle envious of a collie’s mane or a pug wanting the nose of a greyhound? We humans spend a lot of time trying to make ourselves look like someone else’s version of perfection instead of loving our unique features, our unique life, and yes, our unique problems.
- Enjoy the journey. When dogs go for a car ride, they stick their head out the window, smell the air and feel the wind against their fur. They don’t care where they’re going. They’re just enjoying the journey. We often forget that it’s the journey that matters most.
- Drink lots of water. Dogs instinctively know when their bodies need water. It’s a good reminder for us to stay hydrated.
- Be loyal and dependable. Dogs stick with their pack, play with their pack, and defend their pack. Being a loyal and dependable friend, lover, sibling, partner or parent will enrich your life in many ways.
- Love unconditionally. No matter what, dogs love you unconditionally. They wag their tails when they see you, they always want to give you big wet kisses, and they instantly forgive you no matter how you behave. Loving others unconditionally is a difficult task, but it’s the one that would surely make the world a better place if we all just tried.
Debbie Gisonni is an author, speaker, health and wellness expert and realtor® who inspires people to make simple changes that radically improve their self-awareness, well-being and success. She is the author of The Goddess of Happiness, Vita’s Will and Note to Self: Love and writes a blog for the San Francisco Examiner.com and Huffington Post. She is certified as an Integrative Health Coach and Hypnotherapist. Contact: www.debbiegisonni.com.
