Personal Manifesto

Ever since Seth Godin linked to his short manifesto on Hugh Macleod's The Gaping Void Blog, bloggers around the world are posting their own short (500 words or less) manifestos. Here is mine.

Thom Singer’s Life Manifesto in less than 500 words:

People are good! While it is true that there are a lot of bad eggs in the world, I believe the good in humans outweighs the negative. Everyone I have had the honor to really know has brought something useful into my life. Too many people put up walls and do not share the glimpses of their souls with those around them. Yet, when they open up their true personality, the whole universe is illuminated.

Life is precious… enjoy it! My father is 92-years-old and still very active. He knows that at anytime he could complete his journey on earth, thus every day he plans an activity. Embrace everyday and do something fun.

Love someone! The institution of marriage is not easy. Living with another person requires sacrifice, patience, and some hurt feelings. However, if you remember that the other person is not just there to please you all the time, then you can also find amazing passion, joy and peace. Yet selfishness from either partner can steam roll the whole relationship flat. It is a delicate balance.

Children are teachers! Whether or not you become a parent you should spend some time with kids. Their youthful exuberance is contagious. Children see the world through fresh eyes. Just being around them makes you hopeful about the future. Teaching them makes you learn more about any subject.

Find a real friend/Be a real friend! Countless people will pass through our lives, but a real friend is more precious than gold. This is a person who loves you unconditionally and will listen to your stories, even when they have heard them before. Friendship is hard to define, but you know it when you see it. It is a give and take relationship and there are times when it is not always an even exchange. A friendship is like a garden in that you must cultivate and care for it differently in each season, but to ignore it will cause it to wither.

People do business with people they know and like! Regardless of your profession, treat everyone you encounter with respect. While having a great product or service is important, human beings make decisions with their hearts. Nobody likes to give their money to an asshole, and will actively search out alternatives if they do not like you.

Thanksgiving! Regardless of your religious or spiritual beliefs you need to be thankful to some higher power. To do less is very arrogant. Amazing opportunities exist in life and we all need to acknowledge that the humanity is bigger than just the individual. Give thanks for the experience that is life.

Have A Great Day.

thom