One Small Step Can Change Your Life: The Kaizen Way

by Robert Maurer

“What makes you feel appreciated?” The resulting list is usually studded with free or low-cost items such as hearing the boss say “thank you,” receiving a compliment from a superior, or having someone bring them a cup of coffee when they’re working late.

Since many of us suffer from jammed schedules and financial strain, it’s a kind of reward itself to know that someone took the time to say thanks.

Each morning, when he awoke in pain, he’d tell himself that all he had to do was just get out of bed. When he was standing upright, Jack would give himself a mental pat on the back: “Atta boy, Jack!” he’d say. This compliment, short but sincere, was his reward. Then he’d say to himself: If I can just walk down the street to the gym, I’ll enjoy a chat with the staff there.

“How do you know you are appreciated?”

If you tend to be your own worst critic, you might try an honest self-compliment as your reward.

beer. Don’t fret about copping life’s grand rewards. Enjoy its tiny delights. There are plenty for all of us.”

Other diseases, including cholera and malaria, were cured the same way—that is, by looking at who didn’t get the disease and trying to figure out why.

find one moment each day when he enjoyed his police work.

When you’re implementing a plan for change but find yourself bored, restless, and stuck, look around for hidden moments of delight.

focus on the moments of change that bring you pleasure.

most people are able to come up with at least one moment they’ve enjoyed.

Train yourself to focus on the small, positive aspects of your partner. Instead of focusing on the big flaws, or waiting for a horse-drawn carriage ride or trip to Paris, appreciate him or her for small gestures, a pleasing tone of voice, or a kind touch.

But if your partner receives compliments only for the services he provides, he may begin to feel like an employee.

try to identify one moment each day during which you can praise your partner’s personality or appearance. Try “I love the way your hair looks in the morning,”

Whenever you find yourself lost in worry or regret, try this: Ask yourself: Do I need to learn to change anything based on this worry or regret of mine?

By taking small steps, you set your mental compass in a new direction, allowing your mind to do the rest.

If you want to have more love in your life, perform a small, loving act each day for a friend, acquaintance, or stranger.

try asking a new question of yourself each day.