virgin islands scene

Conscience is the root of all true courage; if a man would be brave let him obey his conscience.
-- James Freeman Clarke
 

 

Friday, September 26, 2025

What works well

It’s easy to notice the things that go wrong. It’s even easier to take for granted everything that goes right.

Those two tendencies can conspire to give you a negatively biased view of life. By taking steps to correct that bias you can feel better, think more clearly, and act more effectively.

Look for and seize upon opportunities to celebrate what is good, what works well. Remind yourself often to appreciate what is right with the world, what reliably contributes positive value.

The simple truth is, if you make it through the day a whole lot of things have gone right. Get yourself in the habit of considering the good fortune you normally enjoy without even thinking about it.

It’s frustrating when something fails to work the way it should. You can decide to transform that frustration into gratitude for all the other things that continue to function reliably.

Be aware of what’s wrong and take corrective steps, while also appreciating all that continues to be right. There’s great value in what works well, and even greater value when you take the time to focus on it.

— Ralph Marston

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