I recently read "The Four Agreements" for the first time, and it had a profound impact on me. I believe the entire concept or ideology surrounding how we present ourselves, how we shape our perception of the world, the notion of universal truth, and the deeply profound yet simplistic approach we should adopt towards life.

The Four Agreements are:

1. Be impeccable with your word - Words are like incantations, and through them, we can cast spells on one another, both positively and negatively. The words we choose to speak to others, as well as the words we speak about ourselves, can play a significant role in shaping who we become, what we achieve, how we think, and how we act. We all need to think carefully and strategically, with the utmost respect for the words we choose, because their impact can have significant consequences for ourselves, others, and the world around us.

2. Don’t take anything personally - While it is easy to say, it can be hard to always maintain. We should never take anything personally because the negativity projected by others is merely a reflection of their own insecurities or inadequacies they are experiencing in their own lives.

3. Don’t make assumptions - Making assumptions is always a risky approach, as though sometimes you may be correct, you can also be completely mistaken. Instead of assuming, we need to ask the necessary questions and seek answers if we are uncertain or concerned about the thoughts or ideas of others.

4. Always do your best - This is a simple yet essential concept that I believe all humans are born with. However, due to trauma, lack of support, or other factors, this pursuit can diminish, leading us towards a life of mediocrity. Doing our best does not mean we have to be perfect or even the best; it means putting our best foot forward to strive towards becoming the best versions of ourselves. In any endeavour, we should give our absolute best, ensuring that we will never be disappointed with the outcome because we know we have given it our all.

All of these agreements are ones that are almost a given, however, until they are formalised is holds less ground. Formalising and endearing pursuit or concept of control over ourselves is a great contributing factor in the search for happiness. If we can follow these agreements it’s hard not to feel fulfillment and joy within our lives, however it’s also important to not give up if we break an agreement, but to regroup, revise, reconnect and reattach the foundations of the agreements and more forward.

Thanks,

Dean