Start your day with a truthful evaluation.
Often in the pursuit of appearing to be even-keeled or well-balanced, we respond to a question with a contrived answer.
We all know the question.
It’s not like it’s going away.
But if you want to make a difference in life, you need to learn to answer it with twenty words or less, while still maintaining a truthfulness you can live out.
The question:
How are you today?
You’ve heard that one before, right? Here are the top five normal answers to that inquiry:
- Fair to middlin’.
- Just fine once I get my coffee.
- Great!
- Gettin’ started.
- Couldn’t be better.
There are variations on these themes, but the overall message is, “I don’t know why you’re asking me this question. It seems to be just polite, and I don’t think you really want to know how I am today.”
But if you misrepresent yourself in your answer, then later on it’s hard to explain why you’re getting such a bad attitude or why you become depressed because the toast was too dark.
If you want people to understand you, you must live more of a transparent life, at least as much as possible. So answer the first question of the day with an accurate report.
How are you today?
“Didn’t sleep great. Looking forward to maybe having a nap but going to cuddle up to my coffee right now.”
Now, when somebody hears this, they have a much better idea of where you’re coming from. And “where you’re coming from” is a gift you give to the people around you—so they don’t press all the wrong buttons.
How are you today?
“I slept pretty well but I’m scarin’ off some grouchiness so I’m going to be quiet and soak up the cheer in the room.”
Just that burst of plainness communicates how trustworthy you can truly be.
How are you today?
“Great. And I’m a bit surprised I’m great, because I woke up thinking I might be sleepy.”
Any answer you give that speaks to your real situation in twenty words or less will leave the room startled and delighted.
Because I guarantee you—whatever details you bring up, two or three other people will add their “amen.”
It may seem trivial but there’s something pure of heart about refusing to deceive anyone—even on such a simple morning question.
Remember the keys:
- Answer quickly.
- Less than twenty words.
- Don’t elaborate.
The producers of jonathots would humbly request a yearly donation for this inspirational opportunity
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