The Four Agreements

by Loren Boyd

 

As we move into a new year, I’d like to share four very important ways of being that I’ve adopted into my everyday life. They have been life-changing. Remember that growing up, we were conditioned in a certain way. We took on agreements from our caregivers and from society that have shaped our entire reality. These agreements, from how we should act or be in the world, to the type of people we should love, to how we treat ourselves and others, are driving our lives. These agreements we have taken on often cause suffering because they don’t feel true for us. In order to break free from our conditioning and live our own personal truth, we must choose new agreements. Ones that work for us. In this process, Don Miguel Ruiz suggests starting with these four simple agreements that provide a beautiful foundation for us to begin living more authentic, happy, and joyous lives.

BE IMPECCABLE WITH YOUR WORD

Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others. Use the power of your word in the direction of truth and love.

DON’T TAKE ANYTHING PERSONALLY

Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won’t be the victim of needless suffering.

DON’T MAKE ASSUMPTIONS

Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness, and drama. With just this one agreement, you can completely transform your life.

ALWAYS DO YOUR BEST

Your best is going to change from moment to moment. It will be different when you are healthy as opposed to sick. Under any circumstances, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse, and regret.

May you experience peace and love on this beautiful eve as we transition into a new year.