Fitting in

How do I fit in with those around me? This question often accompanies the need to belong and to be accepted. Since we live in a social system, it is a natural question. Perhaps the easiest way to answer this question is to think about how you would like to be treated. Do you want to be respected, listened to, appreciated, valued, encouraged? Then think about how you are treating others around you using these qualities. Choose a quality that you would like to be experiencing in your life and begin to use it on a daily basis. For example, if you want to be listened to, make a conscious effort to listen intently to someone who needs to talk. Don't interrupt or offer a quick solution. Give your undivided attention and watch how the other person reacts to that. Practice the quality you choose for one month and be aware of how it comes back to you. This is how we fit in with those around us. It doesn't mean that we win popularity contests, although you may find more people seeking you out when you demonstrate these positive qualities. What can you choose today that will lead to you fitting in and attracting what you desire from others?