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THE FOUR AGREEMENTS by don Miguel Ruiz

In THE FOUR AGREEMENTS, don Miguel Ruiz reveals the source of self-limiting beliefs that rob us of joy and create needless suffering. Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, the four agreements offer a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform our lives to a new experience of freedom, true happiness, and love.

I just recently finished reading this book, and I was impressed by the influence behind the simplicity of these four agreements that are critical to the level of success and inner peace that one experiences in this life. These four agreements are as follows:

1. BE IMPECCABLE WITH YOUR WORD: Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.

2. DON'T TAKE ANYTHING PERSONALLY: Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won't be the victim of needless suffering.

3. DON'T MAKE ASSUMPTIONS: Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness, and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.

4. ALWAYS DO YOUR BEST: Your best is going to change from moment to moment; it will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgement, self-abuse, and regret.

For me personally, these four concepts hold a lot of meaning. In regards to the first agreement, it reminded me of the importance of direct and honest communication. Our word is probably the most influencial and powerful tool that we have as human beings so it is absolutely critical that we optimize it and use it in the direction of truth and love.

In regards to the second agreement, projection is very real. What people do and say reflects more about themselves than anything else. Regardless of whether you are receiving a compliment or criticism, it should mean nothing. If you have already formed a strong sense of identity of yourself, what people say or do shouldn't affect you. For me personally, I know who I am so other individuals' judgements don't affect me. I think about and consider what they are saying and incorporate it into the possibility of improvement, but I don't hold any judgement to it. It is a pretty interesting concept. The next time you receive a compliment really think about what the compliment says about the person giving it to you.

In regards to the third agreement, I think we can all agree about the importance of not making assumptions. This is an area where it is necessary for me to pay a lot of attention. I can definitely be quick to assume things. It is important for me to find the courage to ask questions and to express what I really want. In the past, if I was afraid of getting hurt, my first line of defense was to make assumptions. I have really tried to work on this and minimize that reaction.

And finally, the fourth agreement is self-explanatory. The best we can do....is our best.

Think about incorporating these four concepts into your daily life. I can attest to the fact that you will be happier and hopefully be on your way to becoming the best version of yourself. Good luck.