Two young guys joined a construction company and were sitting down for lunch when Joe blurted out, “Peanut butter and jelly again!” And then crumpled his sandwich and tossed it to the ground. The next day, Joe muttered. “I hate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.”

Finally on the third day, Joe’s buddy said, “Why don’t you tell your wife not to make you peanut butter and jelly sandwiches anymore?”

Joe said, “Don’t bring my wife into this. I make my own sandwiches.”

We all make our own sandwiches when it comes to making life choices. I recently came across the 7 Rules of Life and tried to find the author. No luck, but I want to expand on these terrific points.

Number One: “Let It Go.” I am reminded of the hit song with the same title from the blockbuster movie “Frozen.” Never ruin a good day by thinking about a bad yesterday. Holding on to things that are eating at you is not just unproductive; it’s a recipe for disaster. Worry is wasting today’s time to clutter up tomorrow’s opportunities with yesterday’s troubles.

Number Two: “Ignore Them.” Don’t worry about what people say. Live a life that’s empowering you. You have to live with the consequences of your actions, so learn to trust your gut.

That’s why I don’t hang around with negative people. A negative person brings you down. A negative person sees the difficulty in every opportunity, while a positive person sees the opportunity in every difficulty.

Maya Angelou, one of my favorite poets and authors, said: “I am convinced that the negative has power and if you allow it to perch in your house, in your mind, in your life, it can take you over.”

Number Three is “Give It Time.” Time can be a great healer. Emotional healing often requires actively processing feelings, whether through talking with friends, family or a professional therapist. Having a strong support network can significantly aid in emotional healing. Time can help strengthen these relationships and provide opportunities for support.

Over time, individuals often gain new perspectives and insights that can help in healing. Experiences and learning can provide new coping mechanisms and understanding. Engaging in  physical activities, hobbies and relaxation techniques contribute to overall well-being.

Number Four: “Don’t Compare.” The only person you should try to beat is the person you were yesterday. Comparing oneself to others can be a double-edged sword. While it might sometimes serve as a motivator, it often leads to unnecessary stress and dissatisfaction.

Regularly comparing yourself to others can hinder your performance and motivation. Focusing too much on others can distract you from your own goals and priorities. It’s more productive to set personal benchmarks and strive to meet them. Relying on comparisons for validation can lead to a cycle of seeking external approval rather than finding satisfaction in personal growth and achievements.

Number Five: “Stay Calm.” It’s okay not to have everything figured out. Know that in time, you’ll get there. We all get angry at work sometimes. If your buttons get pushed, you might need to practice some relaxation techniques, so you don’t lose control. Don’t let your emotions get the best of you; let them show the best of you.

Number Six: “It’s On You.” You, and only you, are in charge of your happiness. Happiness is a state of mind. So are anger, sorrow, disappointment and loneliness. The mind is the most powerful tool in the universe, but you are the one who controls it. 

As the late Dr. Denis Waitley said, “If your life takes a turn for the worse, remember that you are the one doing the driving.” Recognize when you have negative feelings and try to steer your mind in a different direction. Happiness can be thought, taught and caught – but not bought.

And finally, Number Seven: “Smile.” Life is short. Enjoy it while you have it. Never underestimate the value of a smile. It should be standard equipment for all people. You shouldn’t come to work without a smile . . . and that goes for your personal life too. Everything seems much easier with a smile. Maybe that’s why it takes only 17 muscles to smile and 43 to frown. The world always looks brighter from behind a smile.

To sum it all up, here’s more wisdom from Dr. Waitley: “Losers let it happen – winners make it happen.” Be a winner.

Mackay’s Moral: Go out and live your best life.