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I decided to forgo the usual “on the eve of Thanksgiving this is what I’m thankful for” shtick and instead briefly write about a great article I recently read in the New York Times.
In Becoming the Alpha Dog in Your Own Home, Times reporter Alex Williams examines that ways in which parents employ the techniques of Cesar “Dog Whisperer” Millan on their own children. Of course no one goes as far as smacking little Johnny on the nose with a rolled up newspaper, but take into account Millan’s mantra that exercise, discipline and affection are the keys to happiness.
The Dog Whisperer’s various techniques make a lot of sense for childrearing, but also, make a lot of sense for our daily interactions with co-workers, friends and family. So with the holidays, and the inevitable stress that comes with them I thought I’d pass on some of his tips which I happen to think are not only useful but really capture the whatcanbe spirit.
Imagine that this is your boss.
Exercise: Each of us have a different amount of time and effort that we can dedicate to exercise, but rather than worry about making it to the gym everyday, why not simply go for a 15-20 minute walk during your lunch break. For us Type-A’s out there this may seem like a waste of time, but you’d be surprised by how energized and focused you’ll feel after a short walk. A great benefit before that afternoon conference call!
Discipline: Millan has a term that I love: “calm and assertive energy” which he defines as:
“This is the energy you project to show your dog you are the calm and assertive pack leader. Note: assertive does not mean angry or aggressive. Calm-assertive means always compassionate, but quietly in control.”
Now replace “dog” with “co-worker” or “client” or “mother-in-law” and you have got a great lesson to live by. Rather than constant deferral, backing down or feeling like maybe your ideas aren’t the best in the room, be confident, assert yourself and express your ideas. Everyone around you (including yourself) will benefit.
Affection: Here’s where you remember to treat yourself everyday. As a naturally affectionate person, I’m happy to dole out hugs and compliments all day. Kindness towards others is very important, but it’s also key to be good to yourself. Brag on yourself in a meeting when you know you did a great job, eat that extra 5g of carbs for lunch, or just spend a few minutes a day not thinking about an impending project and just “being.”
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November 27th, 2009 at 10:34 pm
This article is an inspirational to everyone, a pet lover person. Express sincerely emotion.
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March 25th, 2010 at 5:46 pm
Arthritis in dogs can be a huge issue that many people never even think of in senior dogs.
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