What Can We Learn from Felines?

Being someone who is obsessed with self-help and well being content, whether it is reading books, following motivational speakers on social media or watching youtube videos that will teach you simple ways to achieve your goals of 12 months in 12 weeks, I have done it all. I still learnt the most from whom I love the most.

On the 2nd birthday of my cat Smokey, I want to share the qualities and habits I learnt from him that help me live my life better. I hope it is relatable / relevant to everyone reading.

1. Persuasiveness: Whether it is to consistently wake me up at 6:00 AM every day or make sure that I give him enough playtime before I go to sleep every night, Smokey does not give up. He will not shy away from making disparate sounds in different corners of the house or keep tapping my leg until I give him attention.  If you deserve it and have waited for the right time, then go get it.

   
   

2. Observing: He observes everything in and around the house. When I pick up the trash, he knows he has a chance to sneak out because my next step will be to take the trash outside to the garbage chute.  Knowing the environment, or being aware of your surroundings, is key to many a task. It’s at least one of the ways we express the importance of having all the information we need in order to reach a goal.

   
   

3. Stretching: Cats and dogs easily stretch 40 times a day, especially following a nap or sitting in the same position for long. This habit can help anyone with a desk job. Stretching before exercising, sleeping, and in the morning has its own benefits.

   
   

4. Creating boundaries: Often people find cats cute and go straight to touch their soft fur or play with them. He gives instant feedback if anyone makes him uncomfortable. He will try to communicate through his gestures, if someone continues, he will simply resist and leave the space. If someone continues to chase him, he will not hesitate to show his disapproval by gently biting. Enough to show that he may be small, but he will not let you push his boundaries. We are responsible for our own mental well-being and communicating healthy boundaries is an essential art to learn.

   
   

5. Attentiveness: If you have ever observed a cat sleeping, you know what I mean. A cat never loses attention. No matter what they are doing, they are always attentive and focused on the task. Being fully present, aware of where we are and what we're doing, has known benefits. 

#habits #persuasion #wellbeing