I believe in self-fulfilling prophecies. I believe that we have an incredible amount of say in what happens to us in life – and that our steering wheel is a combination of our attitude, actions and beliefs.
And so I believe that superstitions, and the belief in them, can only hurt you. I mean, have you ever noticed how negative they are?
Black cats are bad. Walking under ladders are bad. Friday the 13th is bad. People tell you not to count your chickens before they’re hatched. They say if you make a quilt, be sure to finish it or marriage will never come to you. They say a lot of crap that is hell-bent on making you crazy and depressed.
Think about this in relation to your writing and/or business. To apply superstition means that you have to worry, be negative, look over your shoulder, second guess. Is that going to get you anywhere? And by ‘anywhere’ I mean, ‘anywhere good.’
I was born on Friday the 13th. (Ah, so that’s why she’s so sensitive about this…) And, I have been blessed with a wonderful life – I refuse to say luck had anything to do with it. As I see it, the ‘good life getting’ looks something like this:
1. Know what you want.
2. Love what you do.
3. Work hard.
4. Follow opportunities like they’re chocolate cake.
5. Learn from your mistakes.
6. Look forward.
7. Find people you can really lean into and on.
8. Offer that support right back – tenfold.
And, yes, I realize I now may’ve moved on from superstitious to supercliche…But, what I’m really trying to say is this: don’t buy into it. And, don’t – under any circumstances – let the bastards get you down.
Another GREAT post!! Just what I needed going into a weekend, expecially as I’m working both Sat and Sun and feeling a bit sorry for myself about it. I am a fully-paid-up-card-carrying-member of the ‘You get back what you put out there’ school of thought – nothing comes for nothing. Now I’m wandering into the supercliches but thanks again for the reminder!
Happy Birthday!
Thank you! Though it isn’t my birthday – born on Friday the 13th, but not in February!!!!
I get it now.
The girl was born with black hair (like a cat), on a farm (with chickens), and steps from a ladder, on Friday the 13th.
Happy belated Birthday, Julie!
Hello and Happy Belated Birthday! Just recently began checking out your blogs and now I must say, you have another loyal fan. :o) Enjoy your Sunday!
Thanks, Lisa! So great to meet you…but my birthday isn’t until July!
I love this post and completely agree. My mom is superstitious and now that I’m married with kids, I have found myself doing some of the same things. My husband would ask why and I can’t give a reason. I have realized that negativity brings negativity. I prefer to be positive and send out inspirational and positive vibes.
Great list.
Oh, and Julie? I just gave you a Premio Dardos award over at my blog … come see!