Monday, April 2, 2012

Honey, If It Ain't Your Tail, Don't Wag It


Sometimes people get too concerned about what is happening in the lives of others. Most, like me, mean well and only want to help or offer suggestions to fix a problem for a friend or loved one. After all, I'm a logical woman and a pretty decent problem solver. A little help can be a good thing. It's nice to offer someone an alternative idea or a neutral assessment of their issue.

Occasionally though, you're just butting in where you don't belong. Taking on other people's burdens can cause you a lot of stress. You might need to keep your mouth shut instead of volunteering yourself to fix every imperfect situation that comes across your path. The challenge is to know when to help and when to let people muddle it out for themselves. A wise man once told me that as a rule, folks don't like to be told what to do and how to do it.

I've collected a few good quotes that remind me to think before I jump in there. Feel free to share. I hope these make your life happier, reduce conflict, and maybe give you a laugh!  

Don’t sign on for more problems than you must. Resist the temptation to involve yourself in other people’s zones of expertise and responsibility.” ~ Twyla Tharp

Don't concern yourself with things that don't concern you.  If it's not your business, don't make it your burden.” ~ Author Unknown

He missed an invaluable opportunity to hold his tongue.” ~ Andrew Lang

Do not condemn the judgment of another because it differs from your own.  You may both be wrong.”  ~ Dandemis

Just remember, there's a right way and a wrong way to do everything and the wrong way is to keep trying to make everybody else do it the right way.”  ~M*A*S*H, Colonel Potter 
 
Don’t interfere with somethin' that ain’t bothering you none.” ~ Old Wild West talk

Make somebody happy today. Mind your own business.” ~ Ann Landers

If no one asked you for advice, keep your thoughts to yourself.” ~ Author Unknown

~~~~~


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