Mindset, above all things should be the first beast to tackle when making a positive change in your life. One of the many books I gift to people is “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz. This book made a huge impact in my life. It made me realize my errors in judgment and in my actions.
The last 2 years as a Health & Fitness Instructor at the New York City Fire Academy, I continue to use the knowledge obtained from this book to help the Probationary Fire Fighters adapt and adhere to the grueling 18 weeks of training. I start my Physical Training sessions with the Four Agreements and make it relatable to them.
1.Be impeccable with your word
Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the Word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your Word in the direction of truth and love.
2. Don’t Take Anything Personally
Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won’t be the victim of needless suffering.
3. Don’t Make Assumptions
Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.
4. Always Do Your Best
Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse, and regret.
The profound simplicity in this message is overlooked by our negative self talk and in-head story line. Let's be our own cheerleader and follow these agreements in any facet in life.