“We see the world not as it is, but as we are.” — Anaïs Nin
So much of our stress and frustration comes from the narratives we create in our own minds. We assume the worst, misinterpret situations, and react based on incomplete information. But what if we paused and asked, “What else could this mean?”
A simple yet powerful way to reframe our thoughts is by using the phrase, “The story I’m telling myself is…” This technique, inspired by the research of Brené Brown and refined through coaching and mentorship, helps shift perspective and challenge assumptions. Instead of jumping to conclusions, it allows us to acknowledge our internal dialogue and consider alternative explanations.
By practicing this habit, we open ourselves to clearer communication, deeper understanding, and less unnecessary stress. Instead of letting assumptions guide us, we learn to respond with curiosity and wisdom. So next time a situation stirs doubt or frustration, ask yourself, “What else could this mean?”—it just might change everything.
Life gets a lot easier when you stop stressing over things beyond your control. Give your best effort, then let go—what’s meant to be will fall into place.
It’s easy to get stuck dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, but remember, no book is just one chapter, and no chapter tells the whole story. One mistake, one setback, or one tough moment doesn’t define you. Keep turning the pages that need to be turned.
Instead of wasting energy on things you can’t change, focus on what you can—your attitude, your effort, and how you respond to challenges. That’s where real growth happens.
It’s easy to look at the world and wish things were different—more kindness, more honesty, more compassion. But change doesn’t start “out there”; it starts with us. As Gandhi put it, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
How we treat others reflects back on us. When we show kindness, we invite kindness into our own lives. When we act with honesty and integrity, we build trust and self-respect. It’s not about seeking recognition or approval—it’s about doing what’s right simply because it’s right. “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others,” Gandhi also said.
Sure, taking shortcuts or doing what’s popular might seem easier in the moment, but in the long run, it’s sincerity and goodness that truly matter. So today, focus on being that difference—choose kindness, act with integrity, and lead by example. Real change starts with you.
Life is full of choices—some easy, some difficult, and some that test our values and character. In many situations, the easier option might seem tempting because it requires less effort, less confrontation, or less sacrifice. However, the easiest choice is not always the best one. In fact, taking the easy way out can often lead to more stress, regret, and complications in the long run. Doing what’s right, even when it’s difficult, is what truly defines integrity and builds a life of lasting fulfillment.
It’s easy to cut corners, to look for shortcuts, or to follow the path of least resistance. But as the saying goes, “What is right is not always popular, and what is popular is not always right.” Choosing what is right over what is easy requires courage. It means standing up for what you believe in, even when others around you take the easier route. It means telling the truth when a lie would be simpler. It means making decisions based on principles rather than convenience.
Think about the workplace. It’s easier to stay quiet when you see something unethical happening. It’s easier to ignore a struggling colleague rather than stepping in to help. But doing the right thing—speaking up, offering support, standing against wrongdoing—may not be the easiest course of action, but it builds trust and earns respect. Over time, people recognize and appreciate those who stand by their values, even in difficult situations.
This principle applies to our personal lives as well. Relationships, for example, thrive not because people take the easy way out, but because they choose to do what’s right—having difficult conversations, making sacrifices, and prioritizing honesty. The easy option might be to avoid addressing issues, but in the long run, unresolved problems only grow bigger and more damaging.
“Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” This simple yet powerful statement reminds us that having the ability to do something does not necessarily mean it aligns with our values or leads to the best outcome. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to prioritize convenience over conscience. We can choose to take shortcuts, to look for quick fixes, or to turn a blind eye. But in doing so, we often pay a price later—whether it’s in our peace of mind, our reputation, or our relationships.
Ultimately, living a life based on doing what’s right rather than what’s easy leads to a deeper sense of peace. There is no second-guessing, no guilt, no fear of being caught in a lie or regretting a hasty decision. It might take more effort in the moment, but in the long run, it creates a life that is more fulfilling and less stressful.
So the next time you’re faced with a choice, ask yourself: Am I choosing this because it’s right, or because it’s easy? The right path may be harder, but it’s always worth it.
In life, not every chapter ends with a full stop—some simply fade, making way for the next. An African adage says, “When the wind blows, some trees bend, but the strong ones stand tall.” You don’t need closure to move forward.
Some situations are meant to stay in the past, no matter how much we try to fix them. Don’t lose yourself chasing after what was never meant to be whole. True strength comes from knowing when to let go.
Inner peace begins the moment you take a deep breath and decide not to let anyone or anything control your thoughts. You are not defined by what happened to you—you are shaped by what you choose to do next.
So breathe. Release the weight. And step into this moment with renewed purpose. The future is waiting, and it starts now.
Evans Akpo 