Sometimes it seems that there is no getting away from personal growth, even when I consciously attempt to distract myself. Today, I was googling one thing, which led to another and another, before stumbling upon Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle. I remember learning about this in college physics, but it never occurred to me then that what Heisenberg discovered has such profound implications outside of scientific circles. Now, after all these years, I think that this Principle deserves no small amount of awe.

Essentially, Heisenberg determined that the mere observation of a particle causes it to then move in an unpredictable manner. I started relating this to us. After all, aren’t we a bundle of particles? Do we, by simply observing ourselves and each other, alter our paths in surprising ways?

If observing my thoughts changes my subsequent actions, then I might want to be more thoughtful about what I think. So I came up with a list of Ten Thoughts to Invite Surprising Changes to my own bundle of particles.

1. Do what matters most and let go of the outcome.

2. Be truthful, not just honest. Truth contains compassion.

3. Your Self is a renewable resource. Share it.

4. Find meaning in the smallest of things to notice what is truly great.

5. Affirm all children. Remember that everyone was once a child.

6. Recognize and remember fear’s many disguises: anger, hate, resentment, boredom, cynicism.

7. Forgive yourself by admitting your mistakes, making amends, and granting yourself compassion. Do this often.

8. Try amazing things. The world isn’t served by your laying low.

9. Love is more than a feeling; it is a choice.

10. Be the person your dog thinks you are. (taken from a bumper sticker)

Feel free to send me your list of Thoughts to Invite Surprising changes. They don’t have to be original, just meaningful to you.