Before and After

To present a picture of the magnitude of a change, before and after comparisons are often made.  You see it on commercials for weight loss products and programs that feature makeovers.  Usually, the after story is highlighted as the better option.  However, if you apply the before and after model to your thought process, both statuses can help you.  There are times that you need to think before you do something.  There other times that you need to think after something happens.

1. Think before you identify yourself. While your name is your primary introduction tool, there are other labels that can be used.  Depending on the situation, you may want to be known by your role (parent, coach, doctor, lawyer, etc.), association (friend of, fan of, spouse of, etc.), or attribute (friendly, smart, creative, etc.).
2. Think after someone thanks you.  Is the appreciation for what you did or how you did it?  Does the gratitude have anything to do with you at all?   When you recognize the behavior you exhibit that positively impacts others, you can make an effort to display it more often. 
3. Think before you turn on noise (radio, television, computer, etc.) in the car or the house.  The background sound may be a welcome distraction from a busy day.  However, quiet time may also be refreshing and the silence can help you set priorities.
4. Think after you lose someone or something.  There will be lessons learned and memories that will make you smile.  These things can help you adjust to the change and move forward.  You will feel the loss, but don't allow emotion to dictate how you view your new reality.  Think about the value that you received from your association and look for ways to share that with others.

  Leave a comment and share a before or after thought that you will use this week.