This one’s for me. A note to myself.

Don’t hide out being like everyone else. Be a breath of fresh air to the people closest to you and the world around you.

Be a giver. Give these things:

Encouragement. No one gets in bed at the end of the day and says, “People were way too nice to me today.” Encouragment, for some reason, is in short supply in our culture. For that reason, a nice word goes a long way.

Inspiration. People want to be a part of a big story. Help them see and connect to something bigger than themselves.

Accountability. People need to know that they matter, and that their actions have consequences. Accountability demonstrates commitment. Commitment communicates value.

Connection. People want to feel known. They feel safe when they’re linked to other familiar people.

Memories. Make scenes with people and for people that they will remember.

Grace. People expect an eye for an eye. They expect harm to be repaid with harm. Mess it all up by turning the other cheek. Give them grace.

Mistakes. The person who never screws anything up is the person who never tries anything. Show the world around you that it’s okay to try.