Be A Class Act

'Class is an aura of confidence that is being sure without being cocky. Class has nothing to do with money. Class never runs scared. It is self-discipline and self-knowledge. it's sure footedness that comes with having proved you can meet life.'

I have been re-reading The Success Principles: How to Get from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be, by Jack Canfield. He's the guy that also wrote The Chicken Soup for the Soul Series and I have to say that the book provides a lot of valuable information for uncovering the path towards your best self. One of the last chapters talks about conducting ourselves with class. I must admit that I sometimes wonder if most of us (myself included) haven't forgotten the meaning of the word and what it means to walk through life accordingly. Having class is about:

Living by your own highest standards- you must have personal standards that are more demanding and exacting than that of conventional society. These standards are chosen, established and applied.

Maintaining dignity and grace under pressure- you must remain unwavering, calm, and certain in the face of chaos. Your steadiness gives courage and security to others.

Focusing and improving the behavior of others- lead by example and others will rise to meet your standard out of respect and admiration and the knowledge that they too can be better than they've given themselves credit for.

Operating from a larger, inclusive perspective- the ability to have compassion and deep understanding is linked to our own feelings of humanity. Remember that you are inextricably linked to others.

Increasing the quality of every experience- create more than you consume. Enrich the lives of others by finding ways to introduce greater beauty, significance, uniqueness, and stimulation into every experience.

Counteracting meanness, pettiness, and vulgarity- instead, act with generosity of spirit, gratitude, respect, courtesy, and appreciation. Act unexpectedly, in a manner that elevates and acknowledges others.

Taking responsibility for actions and results- be accountable. Tell the truth about your failures, transform your defeats into progress.

Strengthening the integrity of all situations- challenge yourself. Find ways to grow, develop, and add value to the world.

Expanding the meaning of being human- Approach everyone you meet with new eyes. Give yourself and others the opportunity and freedom to express their uniqueness in the world.

Increasing the confidence and capabilities of others- be an 'energy creator,' not an 'energy drainer.' Build your own confidence by defining and consciously choosing your governing ideals. Your strength of conviction will provide a solid foundation for others to discover greater creativity, cooperation, progress, and growth.

I don't know about you, but in the face of adversity, I've found the need to revisit these principles. It's easy to be classy when life isn't throwing you curveballs (and how often does that happen?)  I hope you found it a needed reminder also...

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