Embracing TLC: Think, Laugh, Cry

In his legendary acceptance speech for the first Arthur Ashe Award for courage, cancer-fighting college basketball coach and broadcaster Jim Valvano once said, "To me there are three things everyone should do every day. Number one is laugh. Number two is think -- spend some time time in thought. Number three, you should have your emotions move you to tears. If you laugh, think and cry, that's a heck of a day."

"To me there are three things everyone should do every day. Number one is laugh. Number two is think -- spend some time time in thought. Number three, you should have your emotions move you to tears. If you laugh, think and cry, that's a heck of a day."

I saw this quote, framed as wall art at a lake house leadership event this weekend, and it connected with me at a deep level.

Let's break it down and see why we should incorporate these simple yet profound elements into our daily lives.

Think

1. Encourages Growth:

Ever catch yourself zoning out and just pondering life's mysteries? That's your brain's way of telling you it's time for a little mental workout. Taking a moment to reflect allows us to learn from our experiences, grow as individuals, and maybe even stumble upon a genius idea or two.

2. Enhances Decision-Making:

Life's full of choices, big and small. Whether it's deciding what to have for lunch or contemplating a career change, giving ourselves time to think things through can make all the difference. So, next time you're faced with a tough decision, take a beat, weigh your options, and trust your gut.

3. Fosters Creativity:

Remember those moments when your mind wanders off on a tangent, and suddenly, you're struck by a stroke of brilliance? That's the magic of creative thinking at work. Whether you're an artist, an entrepreneur, or just someone trying to solve a problem, embracing moments of reflection can lead to some pretty amazing breakthroughs.

Laugh

1. Boosts Mood and Health:

Who knew something as simple as a good laugh could do wonders for your well-being? Laughing not only feels good but also comes with a whole host of health benefits. So, go ahead, watch that funny cat video or share a joke with a friend—your body and mind will thank you for it.

2. Strengthens Connections:

Ever noticed how laughter has a way of bringing people together? Whether it's sharing a funny story with friends or cracking up at a family dinner, laughter builds bonds and strengthens relationships. So, don't be afraid to let loose and share a laugh with those you care about—it's the glue that keeps us connected.

3. Promotes Resilience:

Life's full of ups and downs, twists and turns. But no matter what challenges come your way, laughter can be your secret weapon for bouncing back. Finding humor in tough situations not only lightens the mood but also helps you stay resilient in the face of adversity. So, next time life throws you a curveball, remember to laugh it off and keep on going.

Cry

1. Releases Pressure:

Ever had a good cry and felt like a weight had been lifted off your shoulders? That's because crying isn't just about sadness—it's a powerful form of emotional release. So, don't be afraid to let those tears flow when you need to. It's all part of being human.

2. Deepens Empathy:

Have you ever found yourself tearing up while watching a touching movie or listening to a friend's heartfelt story? That's your heart's way of connecting with the world around you. By allowing ourselves to be moved to tears, we open ourselves up to a deeper sense of empathy and compassion for others.

3. Honors Authenticity:

Let's face it—life isn't always rainbows and sunshine. But embracing our tears, our vulnerabilities, is what makes us truly authentic. So, don't shy away from showing your emotions. Whether you're shedding tears of joy or sorrow, each tear is a testament to your humanity and your capacity for love and connection.

Questions for Reflection:

1. When was the last time you took a moment to simply think and reflect on your life?

2. How often do you incorporate laughter into your daily routine? What could you do to add more moments of joy and humor?

3. Reflect on a recent experience that moved you to tears. What did you learn about yourself and your emotions from that experience?

In embracing TLC—Think, Laugh, Cry—we embrace the essence of what it means to be fully human. So, let's take Jimmy V’s advice and make each day a heck of a day by laughing, thinking, and crying our way through life's ups and downs. It’s part of what makes it all worthwhile.

‍