The Lawyer’s Well-Being Brief. . .10 Ways to live a more grounded and rewarding life!
“When you talk, you are only repeating what you already know. But if you listen, you may learn something new.”-Dali Lama
Welcome (back) to the Lawyer’s Well-Being Brief! Each week, I share insights and practical strategies to help us cultivate well-being and thrive — both personally and professionally.
This week we are looking at Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff . . . and It’s All Small Stuff: Simple Ways to Keep the Little Things from Taking Over Your Life, written by Richard Carlson. When Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff was published in 1997, it spent over 100 weeks on the bestseller list.
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff…is a book that tells us how to keep from letting the little things in life drive us crazy. The book contains exactly 100 chapters, each one containing a different suggestion to help us put challenges in perspective, reduce stress and anxiety through small daily changes, and find the path to achieving our goals.
Who was Richard Carlson?
Richard Carlson was a bestselling American author, psychotherapist, and motivational speaker best known for his Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff…book. Carlson was a leading figure in the self-help movement. He was known for accessible, compassionate advice that helped people shift perspective and find peace in everyday life.
Ten Ways Not to Sweat the Small Stuff
1. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff — and Almost Everything Is Small Stuff
This is the heart of Carlson’s message: Most of the things we get worked up about aren’t truly important in the grand scheme of things. When you learn to pause and ask, “Will this matter a year from now?” — you free yourself from unnecessary frustration.
2. Let Others Be “Right” — Most of the Time, It Doesn’t Matter
We waste a lot of energy trying to prove a point or win an argument. Carlson reminds us that being kind and keeping the peace is often more rewarding than being right.
3. Be Aware of the Snowball Effect of Your Thinking
One negative thought can lead to another — and before you know it, you’re spiraling. Carlson teaches us to stop the mental momentum by noticing when we’re overthinking and gently bringing our focus back to the present.
4. Ask Yourself: “Will This Matter a Year from Now?”
This simple question can snap you out of overreaction. Whether you’re stuck in traffic or dealing with a rude comment, putting things in perspective helps you stay grounded.
5. Make Peace with Imperfection
You don’t have to have it all together. Embracing imperfection in yourself and others invites more compassion, flexibility, and peace into your life.
6. Become More Patient
Patience is a superpower in a rushed world. Carlson encourages us to slow down, breathe, and give things — and people — the time they need to unfold.
7. Do One Thing at a Time
Multitasking often leads to scattered thoughts and stress. Focusing fully on one task at a time helps you stay calm, clear, and more productive.
8. Choose Your Battles Wisely
Not every hill is worth dying on. Carlson reminds us to save our energy for what truly matters — not every annoyance or disagreement deserves our attention.
9. Practice Random Acts of Kindness
Doing something kind without expecting anything in return brings joy — to others and to yourself. It’s a small habit that can have a big emotional impact.
10. Live in the Present Moment
The past is gone, the future isn’t here yet — all you truly have is now. Carlson encourages us to be mindful, slow down, and truly experience the life that’s unfolding in front of us.
Closing Thoughts
Let’s be honest, most of us have a tendency to blow little things out of proportion. We all know that life is too short to get caught up with the small stuff. When we let everyday irritations slide, we free up energy to be kinder, more patient, and enjoy the beauty of life.
Forward Always!
