Some of the greatest life lessons can be learned from pets. Their ability to love unconditionally, to live in the present moment, to forget and forgive, to enjoy their own company, to give full attention to their pet are some of the qualities that we would all like to acquire to lead a life more meaningful, happier and more satisfied. Observing your pet’s behavior closely and integrating some of their traits into your personality can make you a better, even more successful, person. This Teachers’ Day, here are 10 things you can learn from your pet. (Also read: Pet Care Tips: 5 Essential Life Skills to Teach Your Dogs)
1. Don’t worry about what others think of you: Have you noticed a cat trying to fit into a box 3 times bigger? They don’t care how others perceive him – they don’t even care if they like him. They are confident in their own abilities and are not diminished by other cats or people they may interact with. “People would have a much easier life if their self-esteem and self-confidence came from within and wasn’t shaped by the opinions of others,” says Karan Gupta, founder of Goofy Tails, a lifestyle product company. nutrition-focused pets.
2. Love with all your might: Being able to love someone deeply and unconditionally can be cathartic and is something we can learn from our furry friends. “Everyone knows that dogs love unconditionally, but more than that, it’s the passion with which they love that matters. Go for a walk and see how your dog reacts to you coming home. Do it 10 times and You will always find your dog waiting for you at the door, with the same zeal and enthusiasm as when he first met you. It’s amazing how special a dog can make you feel. Now imagine if you could do the same for someone else,” says Vidhi Malla, a pet owner.
3. Live in the moment: We either dwell on the past or worry about the future, while missing out on all the beautiful moments the present has to offer us. Our pets, on the other hand, make the most of the present moment while trusting their owners to take care of their worries.
“Animals have been practicing mindfulness long before it became popular among us humans. Although they sometimes feel fear and anxiety, any anxiety is based on the circumstances of the moment. They think or s “Rarely worry about the future. Animals tend to believe that their needs are being met.” Although not preparing for the future is not so practical for people, living in the present is a useful practice. Fear of the future is unproductive and undermines the present moment,” says Gupta.
“It’s something I’ve learned from personal experience. I’ve had dogs my whole life, and what I appreciate most about my dogs is how they enjoy every moment of their be. Of course, we can’t really compare because unlike humans, Dogs don’t have to go to the office or earn a living, but it’s still worth noting. A treat, a new ball or even a pat on the head, a dog loves everything. Dogs love simple things, a run on the beach, sleeping in the sun, a good meal, a surprise!” Vidhi said.
4. Learn to let go: Vidhi says one of the most fascinating things about dogs is their ability to bond and build trust. No matter how much suffering a dog has endured, it can be rehabilitated with a little care and affection. “Abused dogs can be bitter and angry, but most of the time they leave the past and their abusive situation behind, as long as they find people they can trust,” says the owner of the dog. ‘animal.
5. Listen more: “It’s easy to talk to a dog or cat. They usually look you in the eye and rarely interrupt you – and they never look down at their phone in the middle of a conversation. Although it can be so trying to give feedback or think about what to say Then active listening is more effective. The next time you’re chatting with a friend or family member, imagine your beloved dog and imitate their listening habits. Pay attention to what your neighbor says, but also watch their body language to see what they think about the subject. Dogs are keenly aware of the subtle changes in the way we speak. And dogs don’t judge don’t offer unsolicited advice or interrupt. They just listen for as long as the person wants to talk,” says Gupta. .
6. In all together: “If you have more than one dog at home, or if you are someone friendly to your street dogs, you will realize that dogs venture out in groups. It is interesting to see that even “Dogs understand that a team is bigger than a single person, and that as an individual you are at higher risk from predators,” Vidhi explains.
7. Take a break: Even though we work so hard, we don’t really prioritize rest. Our pets listen to their bodies and this is something we can learn from them. “Cats sleep unabashedly 12 to 16 hours a day. This may be a little too much for most people, but when cats are awake, they are alert and fully present. There is a simple but profound wisdom to getting the right amount of sleep to be comfortable. your best during the day. Cats and dogs listen to their bodies and get the rest they need when they need it. However, people tend to make sleep a weak priority because they rely on coffee or soda to get through the day. Unfortunately, such behavior is not productive and can even be dangerous,” says Gupta.
8. Try new things: “Take a dog out without a leash and watch him run. Although we humans may be hesitant to do things, animals don’t. Of course, some dogs are afraid of new things or may have past trauma associated with certain things, but even then they would eventually try to learn how to overcome them,” says Vidhi.
9. Be lenient: Animals engage in reconciliation and peacemaking after incidents of mutual aggression and even after being mistreated or abused. “Pet owners can attest that animals can endure a lot and will continue to show love and loyalty to their ‘people.’ Their tendency to forgive is likely not a quest for virtue, but an instinct that life is better when humans and animals get along,” says Gupta.
“Every aspect of a dog’s behavior is a life lesson. Something as simple as stretching before starting a training session or exercise regimen. Have you ever noticed what a dog does? dog when he wakes up in the morning? It stretches, it shakes their head and circulates their blood in their limbs. A simple observation that can help humans keep their muscles flexible, strong and healthy,” concludes Vidhi.
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