Tips to increase your Generosity of
Spirit
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July 7, 2009:
Learn the names of your neighbors AND their pets'
names.
On hot days put a bowl of
cold water on your lowest step for thirsty, panting dogs.
Dozens of dog walkers in my neighborhood. The water gives
them an excuse to stop and talk when you're sitting on your
porch. That's how you find out your neighbors'
names.
June
29, 2009:
Ask friends and family not to gossip - talk trash, point out
flaws, complain, criticize - about others (and you). Tell
them you are on a Gossip Diet and don't want to spread it
or hear it either. If you don't want confidential info
about yourself spread about, don't tell people you know to
be gossips. Sometimes the person you confide in tells
his/her spouse who is a gossip. Unfortunately some people
live for gossip: it's the currency with which they build
their social networks. If you remove your "currency" they
can't benefit from it. And if you spread gossip, you are
fair game to be the subject of more gossip.
If you hear someone gossiping say something to nip it in
the bud.
- "Let's move on to a more constructive topic. Have you read any good books lately?"
- "Let's not talk about people behind their backs. You wouldn't want others to talk about you behind your back, would you?"
- "I'm sorry but I've taken an oath to not repeat or listen to gossip. If you're not going to stop, I'll have to leave (or ask you to leave).