26 Mar 10 life lessons from Nelson Mandela
We can all learn.
We should all continue to learn.
Research has shown that those who priorities learning and self-development, throughout their lives, enjoy more happiness and better health.
Who do you look to for lessons on life, happiness, or success? There are so many great role models out there if only we know where to look. Some are famous and others live under the same rooves as we do.
Today we bring you some lessons from the former category – a somewhat "famous" person.
Nelson Mandela has inspired many – and we hope he provides you with some inspiration (and happiness) today…
by Robert Locke from LifeHack
Nelson Mandela has left us a legacy of forgiveness, reconciliation and his pledge for freedom for everybody, no matter their race or color. He will always be an inspiration to the world. In the long and cruel battle to achieve this, he has taught us some invaluable life lessons.
1.Never abandon hope or give up
“The struggle is my life. I will continue fighting for freedom until the end of my days.” – Nelson Mandela
Mandela (also known as Madiba) had very clear objectives in that he was committed to ending apartheid and a terribly unjust society. He knew that the road would be paved with enormous difficulties. But he never gave up.
Defining your goal and your objectives are essential to winning the race. Facing setbacks and failure is the most difficult part, but never give up.
2. Learn the art of compromise
“You mustn’t compromise your principles, but you mustn’t humiliate the opposition. No one is more dangerous than one who is humiliated.” – Nelson Mandela
“If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner.” – Nelson Mandela
Whether in politics or in relationships, compromising and negotiating are essential tools. Learn how to give and take. Mandela gave superb advice when he stated that both sides have to gain. It should ideally be a win-win situation.
3. Violence is not the answer
“We can’t win a war, but we can win an election.” – Nelson Mandela
Mandela was sentenced to prison for life (and served 27 years) because he and the ANC party had adopted a Marxist strategy of sabotage and violence in the fight for justice. After his release, he did not altogether renounce this policy. It was kept in reserve.
Reconciliation and negotiation were far more effective and powerful weapons and that should never be forgotten. Madiba had the intelligence not to let the past of bitterness and resentment restrict him. Four years of tough negotiations with President de Klerk were rewarded with success and the joint Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.
4. Don’t be put off by difficulties
“It always seems impossible until it is done.” – Nelson Mandela
That quote by Madiba reflects that although lives are marked by illness, tragedy, misfortune and pain, people should never get discouraged. Those negative experiences can teach more than anything else. And they can teach that you have to remain faithful to your values and ethics. Mandela wanted freedom from apartheid, and while he changed strategy, he never changed that one principle…
…keep reading the full & original article HERE