Keith Goodwin is the very able president and CEO of East Tennessee Children’s Hospital. He has an important and serious job taking care of sick children. But when he took time out recently to deliver the commencement address at South College, Keith imparted Eight Steps to Happiness that were both helpful and sometimes humorous.
Briefly he suggests you:
- Stop and smell the flowers. In other words, take time to enjoy the simple things.
- Become a good listener, but think for yourself. When listening to others think, “They just may be right.”
- Turn off electronics once or twice a week. Pick up a book and read; even if it just puts you to sleep it will help you relax.
- Have chutzpah. Be feisty, self-confident; eliminate self-doubt.
- Get married. Life is better with a partner. Plus it gives you good material for when you are writing a book or seeing a psychiatrist.
- Have children. Children add texture to your life and teach you humility.
- Be as smart as you can be; but remember it is better to be wise than smart.
- Smile. Anger has become the national pastime. Try for less negativity, go for the positive.
Goodwin also advises, “Do what you are passionate about.” He says even if you fail, fail big because you were going after something big. Don’t waste time living life for someone else. Follow your heart and it will most likely lead you to a fulfilling career.
The best piece of advice he ever received? If you live each day as if it were your last, someday you will be right!
Tags: commencement, Graduation, personal happiness