Cats are pretty impressive. They’re often so naughty and destructive – and yet so adorable. So even if your cat knocks something breakable onto the floor, it’s hard to stay mad for long. Cats know what they’re doing. They make the most of their big eyes and fluffy good looks.

I have a cat named Gizmo. He decided to move in with me a few months ago. I’m kind of allergic to cats and I really didn’t want a pet, but Gizmo was very determined.

He’s cute, cuddly, loveable, and slowly destroying my couch by using it as his scratching post. He’s a mixed bag. But according to author Sabrina Kamaruddin, there’s a lot I can learn from Gizmo. She believes that cats have things to teach us about how to be happy and successful.

Here’s what you can learn from your feline friend…

  1. You should ask for what you want – Cats don’t hesitate to ask for what they want. If they want food or attention, they will certainly let you know. And you should be the same way. Don’t be afraid to ask for the things you need to be more engaged at work and do your job better.
  2. It’s good to be independent – Cats get things done, even when they’re alone. When I’m at work, Gizmo eats, sleeps, plays with his toys, and scratches my couch. He’s very productive! You should try to follow his example. It’s great to be able to work well with your coworkers, but it’s also important to be able to work independently.
  3. Don’t be too much of a “people pleaser” – Cats generally aren’t very interested in pleasing their owners. They’re more interested in pleasing themselves. And I don’t think that’s entirely a good thing. You shouldn’t ignore the needs of the people around you. But you also shouldn’t ignore the things that you want or need in your efforts to please others. It’s important to find a good balance!
  4. You should explore new things – Cats are inquisitive. And you should be, too! Don’t be afraid to explore new ideas, techniques, and ways of getting things done.
  5. Don’t let your critics get you down – Cats are pretty self-confident. Even when you scold them, they just brush it off. Try to be like your cat, and develop a similar level of self-confidence. When you get critical feedback, listen to what the person has to say and make adjustments accordingly. But try not to take it personally. And don’t let it get you down.

 

Kamaruddin, S. (n.d.). 5 self-empowerment lessons I learned from my cats. Leaderonomics. Retrieved from https://leaderonomics.com/leadership/5-self-empowerment-lessons-i-learned-from-my-cats