Amazing Things Will Happen: A Real-World Guide on Achieving Success and Happiness

Chapter 24

Have a Small-Town Mentality

There are small towns in every corner of the world. Although the languages spoken, religions practiced, and foods eaten may be completely different, the deep-rooted approach to life of the people who live in them will always be the same.

As the Internet became more social, the world became smaller. Suddenly each of us could talk to, interact, and do business with anyone in the world. Borders no longer matter when it comes to friendships. The world has become one big small town.

Happy people come from small towns. I firmly believe that a lot of my core values come from growing up in a small town.

Now, don’t worry if you grew up in a bustling city, because having a small-town mentality comes from inside rather than from what is around you. It is a compass to guide you in decisions and how you interact with people.

What are some small-town traits that everyone should adopt?

Always Say, “Good Morning”

Anyone who follows me online knows that I start most mornings with some form of greeting, wishing everyone a good morning. If we cross paths as I’m walking down the street, I’m just as likely to look you in the eyes and say, “Good morning.” It is a simple greeting between strangers and friends, but it goes a long way.

Don’t be bothered when someone doesn’t say, “Good morning” or “Hello,” back; it is just the way that person is and it’s nothing to get upset over. When a smile crosses someone’s face and that person replies with a reciprocating good ...