VN March 2023

Vetnews | March 2023 35 First, define yourself by deciding how you want to be known. Then act the part and live out your definition. There are several scenarios the little boy with the ice cream could have followed: 1. The boy could have spent all his money on what he wanted. It may not have impacted the waitress then, but it would have meant something to the boy. He would have started the subscription to “enjoy things and use people” instead of “use things and enjoy people”. Ignoring the waitress would make him self-focused and, over time, develop the habit of ignoring the needs of others. 2. The boy could have shared his dilemma and told the waitress, “I can afford the chocolate sauce, too, if you don’t mind not receiving a tip”. The waitress may have accepted it and even thought it noble. However, this approachmay foster a manipulative attitude in the boy. He might think that all people can be conned into doing what he wants them to do by shifting the burden of the decision to do the right thing on them. 3. Lastly, the boy could have attempted bargaining.“Give me two rands of chocolate sauce, and I will give you a three-rand tip”. The waitress may have agreed or laughed at him. This approach might promote the idea of taking shortcuts in life, and people can be used to give you a portion of what you want without you doing your part or pulling your fair share of the load. The boy took the path of generosity and a straightforward attitude without manipulation, bargaining or selfishness. It would be wonderful to meet the person who modelled or taught this behaviour to the boy!!! Don’t seek to be perfect – just be authentic ! Next month, we will continue looking at other concepts and ideas and improving our quality of life and overall performance at work and home. v Vet's Health I Life Coaching • Loyal • Cheap • Dependable • Courageous • Prompt • Selfless • Impatient • Lazy • Selfish • Honest • Sloppy • Dishonest • Neat • Arrogant • Sly • Kind • Tardy • Generous • Patient • Persistent • Passionate • Competent • Trustworthy • Respectable • Resourceful • Inconsistent • Confused • Immature • Judgemental • Tolerant How do you want to be known?