Period

Beginnings require completions. What came before the present informs the future. We struggle with moving our stories forward when we leave important things unfinished.

Colon

Be curious. Don’t always take everything as given: ask questions, explore, experiment, and learn as much as you can to develop your sense of wonder. There’s always more to the story.

Semicolon

Connect with people, but honor your individuality. Learning to work together makes us better; it’s our differences that enrich relationships.

Comma

Keep healthy by pausing now and then. Take a moment to breathe, relax, and consider how the parts of your life fit together.

Parentheses

Don’t get so caught up in nonessential things (hobbies, the latest gadget, working overtime, etc.) that you neglect what is truly important.

Exclamation Mark

Pay attention! Acknowledge the significance of big moments in life. That’s the key to living with passion and joy.

Quotation Marks

Listen to what others have to say. As Stephen R. Covey said, “Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply,” (The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change). You don’t have to agree, but give credit where credit is due and keep an open mind.

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