Life Lessons today comes courtesy a really neat woman I met in the green room at CNN. Janet Pfeiffer and I were both on, talking about how many people were losing their tempers and apparently, humanity this holiday season. The more we spoke, the more I realized I had to have her do a Life Lessons for us so here are her answers. And remember, if you want to take part, let us know!
Are you happy at the moment?
I choose to always be happy.
If you could go back and say anything to your 16 year old self now – what would it be?
Do not worry. Have faith in God. Live your life in a way that pleases Him and follow His Way. Everything will work out exactly as it is meant to be even if it does not go according to your plans. You will ultimately benefit.
What’s the most important thing you’ve learned this year?
I need to invest money I don’t have in my business. I can no longer do it all myself.
What do you most want to achieve in the next 12 months?
To have my own highly successful network or cable TV show showing others the path to a peaceful, blessed life; how to heal their anger, have healthier relationships and create lasting joy in their lives. It is possible.
What’s your secret to happiness?
I am so in love with God I cannot not be happy! He has blessed me with so much, even in what He has taken away from me. I continually focus on being grateful and try to live my life in a way that pleases Him. It’s impossible for me not to be happy when my life is all about my Heavenly Father.
What one ritual or practice keeps you grounded?
Morning and daily prayer combined with power walking each morning. I stay connected to Source (God) and nature. It allows me to keep everything in perspective and live each day in peace.
What’s your biggest regret?
The pain and suffering I caused my children. I was ill prepared to raise them and I took out my anger and frustration on them. I wish I had known then about anger what I know now. They deserved so much better from me.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve taught your kid(s)?
To be responsible and self-sufficient. They have all be working since they were 10 or 11 years old.
What bad habit would you most like to change about yourself?
I am a workaholic and have a hard time relaxing and having fun. I’m always focused on my life’s work (which I am passionate about so I don’t really mind until I burn out).
Aside from motherhood and marriage what are you most proud of in your life?
My relationship with God – I have chosen to devote my entire life to doing what He has asked me to do (show others the path to peaceful coexistence). Making my life about Him rather than about me or my kids or husband actually benefits everyone I encounter because it is all about love. I am so much more able to love unconditionally now that God is the center of my life than ever before. I’ve removed all expectations from others and love them freely, exactly as they are. Makes life effortless!
When were you happiest?
The older I get the happier I get. I am in my glory when I am giving a lecture and bringing God’s Word to others. Second to that, I am happiest when I am outdoors in nature or when I am playing with my 4 rescued dogs.
What ten words best describe you?
Kind, loving, forgiving, hard working, trustworthy, funny, integrity, generous, open minded, adventurous.
Janet Pfeiffer, internationally known motivational and inspirational speaker, TV host and personality, and award-winning author, is a leader in anger management and conflict resolution. Janet’s recent books include “The Secret Side of Anger” and “101 Great Ways to Improve Your Life, Vol. 3”. In 2001, she founded “Reunion of Hearts”, Reconciling and Reconnecting Estranged Families”, the nation’s first, non-profit support group of its kind dedicated to the emotional healing and reuniting of estranged family members. Janet is a graduate of Englewood Cliffs College (now part of St. Peter’s) and in her spare time she rescues abandoned and abused dogs (she currently has 4 beautiful mutts), hikes, and spends time with her family. You can read more about her here.
