Summary

The article outlines five life lessons that can be learned from dogs, emphasizing the value of empathy, communication, joy in small victories, appreciation of relationships, and forgiveness.

Abstract

The author reflects on the idea that life could be more enjoyable and less complicated if people emulated their dogs' behaviors. The article highlights the importance of accepting empathy and being open to receiving love and support, much like dogs do when they expose their bellies for a rub. It also encourages readers to speak their minds and actively participate in decision-making, drawing inspiration from dogs' clear communication of their desires. The third lesson is to celebrate the small wins in life with enthusiasm, as dogs do with their exuberant reactions to everyday occurrences. The fourth lesson emphasizes the significance of showing appreciation for loved ones, akin to a dog's joyful greeting regardless of the time of day. Lastly, the article touches on the profound ability of dogs to forgive, suggesting that this trait contributes to the special bond between dogs and humans.

Opinions

The author believes that people should embrace vulnerability and accept care from others, as dogs do without hesitation.
It is suggested that being indecisive or disinterested in decisions, such as saying "I don't care" or "you guys decide," is less beneficial than expressing one's preferences.
The article posits that getting excited about minor achievements can lead to greater success and personal fulfillment.
A strong opinion is expressed about the value of strong relationships and the importance of greeting loved ones with genuine enthusiasm, similar to a dog's greeting.
The author holds the view that the capacity for forgiveness, as exemplified by dogs, is a crucial aspect of meaningful human connections and contributes to the title of "Man's best friend."

5 life lessons you can learn from your dog

A man’s best friend. A title we have given to the millions of dogs who bring joy to the world each and every day. The other day while on a walk with my dog, the idea for an article like this came to me. I reasoned while walking my pup, that if people were a bit more like their pets, life would be easier, and more fun.

1. Accepting Empathy

The majority of dogs, when someone begins to scratch their belly will quickly stretch out onto their backs and fully accept the love.

“When you lose your ego, you win. It really is that simple.” ― Shannon L. Alder

I related this to accepting empathy, to opening up. When a person offers their support or a hug, it’s important to accept their care. People around us try to keep their attitude positive all the time, and the difference between a good and bad day is no longer noticeable.

So the next time somebody connects with you on a sh*tty day, open up, roll on your back, and find the strength in vulnerability.

2. Speak your opinion

Photo by Angelos Michalopoulos on Unsplash

Although dogs can’t speak they make it very clear what they want and when. When begging for food dogs position their nose and upward-facing eyeballs directly below their most preferred snack.

The lesson here is not to act like a dog and sit on the floor next to your friends when they are eating. It is similar, people everywhere for some reason believe it is much more respectful to say “I don’t care” or “you guys decide” whenever faced with a decision.

This is by far the easiest thing to do and you are in no way whatsoever contributing to the decision making process. So next time the moment arises when it is time to choose a place to eat or something to do speak your opinion. You will often eat and do more of what you like while helping others make a decision.

3. Get excited about the little things

“ We live our lives like nothing is a miracle, dogs live their lives like everything is a miracle”- somebody on Pinterest

Dogs lose their minds with excitement when anything good happens, seeing another dog, chasing a ball, and seeing their relatives.

Next time you do something awesome, even something little, get excited about it. Smile, jump around or put on your favorite song and dance to it. In order to achieve greatness, you must excite over the little things along the way.

4. Appreciate those around you

Good relationships are some of the greatest things in the world. No matter what time of day it is, a dog will always jump up from wherever they are in the house and greet their owner. A post WW2 greeting of sorts each and every day filled with joy and excitement.

Photo by Celine Sayuri Tagami on Unsplash

Imagine if you greeted the people you cherish most a little bit more like a dog. Appreciating the presence of others and the bond that exists between you and them.

Try to appreciate those around you a little more like your pup appreciates you.

5. Forgiveness

Last but not least, and maybe the most important, forgiveness. This one is simple. Odds are you have at one point forgotten to feed your dog, stepped on their paw, locked them away.

Dogs have this amazing ability to forgive like no one else can and I believe it’s the primary reason for their title of Man’s best friend.

Dogs are special to us, they always have and always will be. Next time you are with your dog, really observe and try to learn a few things a few lessons.