Here are three things dogs can teach us about
what matters most in life: 

1. Live in the moment

Although dogs remember things like where the
treats are kept, what street takes them home and
who they’ve met before, they only access that
information when they need it — in the moment.
Whether they’re eating a bowl of kibble or chasing
a ball, dogs live for the present moment. The past is
gone; you can’t do anything about it. The future is
unknown. The only thing you can really enjoy and
affect is the present moment. 

2. Play every day

Dogs love to play, which usually involves lots of
movement, whether it’s running, chasing or jumping.  

This is a good reminder for us to play and move our
bodies every day as well.  

Playing opens up your mind and spirit to all kinds
of new ideas and creativity It’s a needed break
from the constant 24/7 work environment.  

And if you can exercise while you play, even better.  

Dogs actually give you a reason to get out and go walking,
hiking, or running. 

3. Enjoy the journey

When dogs go for a car ride, they stick their head
out the window, smell the air and feel the wind
against their fur. They don’t care where they’re
going. They’re just enjoying the journey.  

Although goals are great to set, we often forget
that it’s the journey that matters most. When we
get too attached to the outcome, we set ourselves
up for frustration, depression or even anger if
our exact expectations are not met. Next time
you set a goal, be open to other possibilities,
and enjoy every moment of excitement, creativity,
fun, and lessons on the journey. 

Action Exercise:

What life lessons have you learned from dogs? 

At Resilient Minds we help our clients to develop a mindset of
long-lasting resilience so they can perform at high levels on the
really important things in both their work and personal lives. 

Have a great week. 

Jamie Ford

“There is no psychiatrist in the world like a  
puppy licking your face.”

––Ben Williams