5 Valuable Life Lessons from My Dogs, Conan and Ryder

Are you a fellow dog lover?? Our dogs are more than just pets; they're cherished members of our family.? Lately, I've been reflecting on the amazing traits they possess and wondering if there are lessons I can learn from them to apply in my personal and professional life.? It might sound a little unconventional, but bear with me, and you'll discover how these traits can lead to greater joy, well-being, and fulfillment.

Let me introduce you to my current furry companion, Ryder (pictured above), a Sheepadoodle (a reverse Sheepadoodle, to be precise).? We named him after the Ryder Cup, a memorable sporting event we attended in Paris in 2018. ? Before Ryder, we had Conan, a very large Dogue de Bordeaux who was 135 pounds of muscle and slobber, aptly named after the 80's movie character, Conan the Barbarian (not the former late night talk show host).

Both Conan and Ryder possess numerous remarkable traits, but I'd like to share five key ones that we can all learn from and apply in our lives:

1. Presence: Have you ever noticed how dogs are fully present in the moment? They give undivided attention when you interact with them, making you feel seen and heard. In our busy lives, practicing true presence with others is a gift. Put down your devices, step away from distractions, and listen actively. The impact on your relationships and communication will be incredible.
2. Enthusiasm: Dogs find joy in the simplest tasks, from playing fetch to enjoying a treat. Embracing enthusiasm for the little things in our daily lives can make a significant difference in our satisfaction and performance. Celebrate the small victories, and approach tasks with an enthusiastic mindset. Your positive attitude will influence others and make your accomplishments even more rewarding.
3. Loyalty: Dogs are known for their unwavering loyalty to their owners and families. In both personal and professional realms, loyalty is a powerful force that brings out our best. Stay committed to what truly matters, whether it's a mission, a team, a brand, or those you serve.? In today’s society, loyalty is often frowned upon or even discouraged. ? I’m here to say from experience that loyalty is not a weakness; it can lead to meaningful impacts and lasting relationships.
4. Short Memory:? Dogs have the ability to move on quickly from negative experiences. In life and business, cultivating a short memory for mistakes is essential. Learn from errors, but don't let them consume you. Trust in your abilities and keep moving forward. Dwelling on past missteps can hinder progress and success.
5. Companionship: Dogs are humanity's best friends, offering loyal companionship that's increasingly rare in today's disconnected world.? Loneliness has become a modern epidemic, especially for men (a recent study concluded that 1 in 7 men claims to have 0 friends) affecting our well-being and even our life spans. In the workplace, being a genuine friend to a colleague can make a significant difference. Take the time to get to know your teammates, show kindness, and foster genuine connections.

Dogs are incredible creatures and exceptional teachers. Whether you're a dog owner or not, these lessons are invaluable. Embrace their presence, enthusiasm, loyalty, short memory, and the power of companionship. Applying these traits in your life will undoubtedly make a positive and meaningful difference.

So, next time you spend time with your furry companion, pay attention to their remarkable qualities and consider how you can incorporate them into your own life.? Trust me; you’ll learn something!

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