Personal Development

Four lessons my dog has taught me about life (and how that relates to business)

Lucy has taught me a lot over the past three years, and I write this post to honor her and our friendship (and only half-seriously). Here are just a few of the things she has taught me:

1. Face your fears; it may be worth it.

Fear is something Lucy and I have in common. Of course, she’s afraid of things like plastic bags and the Cheez-it box, while my fears are of things that can, well, actually cause harm. Every once in awhile Lucy musters up all of her strength and does something she’s fearful of, like playing with the ultra-scary paper towel roll. While it can humorous to watch, she usually gets the reward of trying something new and having fun in the process.

As humans, our fear is obviously a little different and usually doesn’t involve ripping a paper towel to shreds, but I do believe Lucy does teach us a valuable lesson: Just give it a shot (within reason, of course). Thinking of asking for a raise? Thinking of proposing a new idea to your boss? Considering asking for a new project? Well, maybe you should face the fear that’s holding you back, and give it a try. (And, if you want to do it like Lucy, do it slloowwly, as to not make any sudden moves that may cause you harm.)

It may not work out in the end. And, if it doesn’t, just don’t do it again (which leads to the next lesson).

2. Learn from your mistakes.

Lucy has been known to make a few mistakes, some of them unfortunately involving the potty. But she tries very hard not to make them again. She understands when we’re upset with her and she does not like it. Her goal in life is to make us happy (and I have to tell you, she’s pretty darn good at it!).

Your goal in life is probably to make yourself (and the people you love) happy. This includes doing well at a job you enjoy. But, you’re going to make some mistakes in the process. The best we can do is own up to them and learn from them. Lucy does, so I know that we can, too.

3. Give routine a shot.

Routine is very important to Lucy. She gets up at the same time every day (or barks at least barks at the same time everyday), she eats breakfast and dinner at the same time every day, she even plays at the same time every day. While she loves to get out and explore the world, she also really loves following her routine. It helps us all of us to know when things are going to happen because we are better able to manage our time and better able to plan our day.

At work, flexible routines can also be helpful. Try setting certain time frames, like from 8-9 a.m. set appointments, from 4:30 - 5 p.m. work on A-list. You get the idea. These simple routines can help you accomplish more in a shorter period of time. Of course, be careful to not let your routine turn into a rut.

4. Seek out challenges.

Lucy loves learning. She understands a ton of words (admittedly, most are food related) and she seems to understand us when we speak. One of her favorite things to do is play with her Canine Genius toy, which is a challenging puzzle toy that releases treats. The point is she’s not afraid to work for her treats. She actually wants to be challenged.

Like Lucy, we can choose to do the bare minimum or we can choose to seek out challenges. You decide.

Most of all, Lucy has taught me not to take things too seriously, to enjoy life, and to always make sure we have plenty doggie treats.

If your pet has inspired you, please share!