Monday Motivation: 14 November

Got the Monday blues? Reclaim the day and set the tone for the entire week with these helpful, motivational tidbits:

“It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves” – William Shakespeare, “Julius Caesar”

This week, we’re taking a leaf out of Bill the Bard’s playbook for today’s edition of “Monday Motivation”, starting with this poignant quote from the historical tragedy, “Julius Caesar”.

Your life is not set in stone. What you plan to do, what goals you want to achieve are not predestined, nor is it up to someone to dictate them for you – it is up to you to mold and shape your life however you choose.

“Better three hours too soon than a minute too late” – William Shakespeare, “The Merry Wives of Windsor”

Time is brevity dressed as eternity. Sometimes being too lax with your time means missing out on experiences, situations or events that could have been well spent and enjoyed. It also sends a message to others that their time may not be important enough to you.

Practise punctuality and responsibility so that you are prepared to meet these things head on without resorting to any excuses. And hey, even if you’re too early, you’re guaranteed a head start!

“Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none” – William Shakespeare, “All’s Well That Ends Well”

Nothing good can be gained from doing wrong to others. It will serve to make them miserable and unhappy … and, if you continue, you will likely feel the same.

Instead, learn to extend your kindness, care and love to all, and you’ll be surprised at the kindness, care and love you’ll receive in turn. This builds the foundation for trust, which allows you to open up, allowing those precious few to see the deepest, most vulnerable parts of you. 

“This above all: to thine own self be true” – William Shakespeare, “Hamlet”

Do not let your true nature be overshadowed by attempts to please other people. Rather, let it shine through.

If that seems scary at first, then take it as an opportunity to connect with yourself – building a healthy relationship with yourself can improve your confidence, improve your relationships with other people, and boost your productivity.