Every year as I get a little older, I get more perspective as to what life “should be” like.  I am surrounded by really incredible people all the time.  I try to apply their best qualities and ideas to my philosophies of life.  I, like everyone else, am a “work in progress.”  I never take the attitude that “I already know that.”  I aim to learn as much as I can in my lifetime.  It is because of this that I came up with what I think are the main rules to live by.  These are the virtues that I think build character and keep you in balance.

First, you must build yourself to be physically and mentally strong.  This is a Taekwon-Do creed that I learned at a young age.  When you’re in top physical and mental condition, you can handle more of the things that life throws at you.  And let’s face it.  Even during the good weeks, life throws a lot at us.  Everyone handles life better when feeling good in both mind and body.  Not only that but when you are in optimal shape, you are simply more resilient and can bounce back from difficult situations more quickly.  This virtue really is number one for me.

Second, watch other people’s backs, particularly your spouse’s.  The martial arts really stresses loyalty and honor.  It is so important.  I have been a loyal person to the people who have been loyal to me.  When you are loyal, you watch out for other people’s backs.  You stand up for your spouse, your friends and people who you respect and admire.  You don’t partake in gossip, and you stop people from negatively talking about others.  You demonstrate loyalty through your actions.  I have been with my Taekwon-Do instructor for 24 years because, no matter what, I watched his back. 

Next, help the unfortunate.  I really have a soft spot for helping other people. Over the years, I have lost thousands of dollars trying to help people get back on their feet.  I’ve supported people through college, have paid house payments, have bought Christmas presents, and lots more.  To be honest, sometimes it works and people improve their lives and sometimes it doesn’t.  I just really believe that giving is the right thing to do.  I think things just go better in life when you do.  Be kind to everyone.  I make it a point to go out of my way to be nice to everyone I meet.  You can never be too kind or too nice.  When I am at the grocery store, I make it a point to be nice to the checker or the bagger.  They’ve probably dealt with a lot of annoying people.  It’s just easier to be nice and people appreciate a sincere compliment.

Fifth, it is really important to be grateful.  Have an “attitude of gratitude.”  Be grateful for your health, your family, your friends and all the great things you have done in your life.  And remember all of the people who have helped you along the way.  Sometimes, just sitting down and taking a few minutes to think about how grateful you are for the wonderful things in your life uplifts your spirits and gives you a better outlook.  Most people look at the glass half empty rather than half full.  We can all find reasons to look at the glass half full if we just try.     

I have found these five virtues extremely beneficial, and they really have served me well.  I hope they work for you as well as they have for me.

Pilsung!