“Promise Yourself” Poem By Christian D. Larson

“Promise Yourself” is a powerful poem by Christian D. Larson that encourages readers to adopt a positive and empowering outlook on life. Its timeless message is as relevant today as it was when it was first written. In a world where negativity can often overwhelm us, Larson’s words serve as a beacon of optimism and strength. This poem not only inspires individuals to focus on personal growth and positivity but also emphasizes the importance of spreading kindness and understanding to others.

“Promise Yourself” Full Poem By Christian D. Larson

To be so strong that nothing
can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness, and prosperity
to every person you meet.

To make all your friends feel
that there is something in them
To look at the sunny side of everything
and make your optimism come true.

To think only the best, to work only for the best,
and to expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others
as you are about your own.

To forget the mistakes of the past
and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times
and give every living creature you meet a smile.

To give so much time to the improvement of yourself
that you have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear,
and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

To think well of yourself and to proclaim this fact to the world,
not in loud words but great deeds.
To live in faith that the whole world is on your side
so long as you are true to the best that is in you.

Meaning of the Poem

At the heart of “Promise Yourself” lies the theme of personal empowerment and positive thinking. Larson masterfully weaves together a series of commitments that an individual can make to themselves, advocating for a life led by optimism, resilience, and compassion.

The poem begins with a call to be mentally strong, suggesting that one’s peace of mind should not be easily disturbed by external events. This sets the tone for the rest of the poem, which is a detailed blueprint for living a fulfilling and optimistic life.

Larson encourages readers to adopt a positive outlook by focusing on health, happiness, and prosperity in conversations with others. This not only improves one’s own state of mind but also has the potential to uplift those around them.

Moreover, the poem places a significant emphasis on seeing the good in others and recognizing the potential that lies within each individual. This perspective fosters an environment of mutual respect and encouragement, which is crucial for personal and communal growth.

The concept of optimism is further explored with the idea of expecting the best from life. Larson suggests that by maintaining a positive outlook and working towards the best outcomes, individuals can make their dreams a reality. This optimism is balanced with a call to action, reminding readers that dreams are achieved through realistic and persistent efforts.

Additionally, Larson touches on the importance of embracing the successes of others as if they were our own. This sense of communal joy and success builds a supportive and encouraging community where individuals feel valued and motivated to achieve their best.

“Promise Yourself” is not just about maintaining a positive outlook; it’s also about actionable kindness. Larson advocates for a cheerful demeanor and the simple act of smiling, which can have a profound impact on both the giver and the receiver. This act of kindness is universal and speaks volumes without the need for words.

In essence, the poem is a guide to living a life filled with joy, kindness, and optimism. It encourages readers to focus on self-improvement and to approach life with a forward-looking attitude, learning from the past but not being held back by it. Larson’s words inspire individuals to rise above negativity and to live with confidence, humility, and faith in themselves and the world around them.

About the Author

Christian D. Larson was a notable figure in the New Thought movement, a spiritual and philosophical movement that began in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in 1874, Larson contributed significantly to the development of New Thought ideas through his prolific writing and speaking. His works focused on the power of positive thinking, the potential of the human mind, and the importance of personal and spiritual growth.

Larson’s beliefs and writings were deeply influenced by the era he lived in—an age marked by rapid technological advancements and a growing interest in human potential and self-improvement philosophies. At the core of Larson’s teachings was the conviction that individuals have within them the power to change their lives through positive thought and action. This belief is vividly reflected in his works, including “Promise Yourself,” which encapsulates the essence of his philosophy.

His contributions to the New Thought movement were not limited to his writings. Larson was also a prominent speaker who traveled extensively, sharing his message of optimism, empowerment, and the potential for personal transformation. His work has left a lasting impact on the New Thought movement and continues to inspire readers and thinkers around the world.

Larson’s legacy is evident in the continued popularity of his writings, which remain influential in the fields of personal development and self-help. “Promise Yourself,” in particular, stands out as a testament to his enduring belief in the power of the individual to effect positive change in their life and in the lives of others. Through his life and work, Christian D. Larson has become a symbol of the transformative power of positive thinking and the endless potential of the human spirit.

Key Takeaways from the Poem

“Promise Yourself” is more than just a poem; it’s a guide to living a life filled with positivity, resilience, and kindness. Here are some of the key takeaways from Christian D. Larson’s inspiring work:

• Emphasis on Strength and Peace of Mind: One of the poem’s core messages is the importance of being mentally strong. This mental strength helps us maintain our peace of mind, even when faced with challenges or negativity. It teaches us that our reactions to external events are within our control.
• Power of Positive Speech: Larson urges us to speak of health, happiness, and prosperity. This positive speech not only uplifts our spirits but also has the power to brighten the lives of those we talk to. It’s a reminder of how our words can impact our world and the people in it.
• Value of Seeing Good in Others: The poem encourages us to recognize and appreciate the potential in everyone we meet. By focusing on the positive qualities of others, we contribute to a more supportive and uplifting community.
• Optimism and Realism: Larson teaches us to balance optimism with realism. Dreaming big while taking practical steps toward those dreams is essential. This balance ensures that our optimism is grounded in action, making our goals achievable.
• Forward-Looking Attitude: Learning from past mistakes without allowing them to hinder our future achievements is another vital lesson. Larson’s poem encourages us to look forward, not back, as we strive for greater accomplishments.
• Cheerfulness and Kindness: A cheerful demeanor and the simple act of smiling can make a significant difference in our lives and the lives of those around us. Larson highlights kindness as a universal language that everyone understands.
• Self-Improvement Over Criticism: Investing time and energy into our own growth, rather than criticizing others, is a more fruitful and fulfilling pursuit. This focus on self-improvement leads to personal development and reduces negativity.
• Rising Above Negativity: The poem reminds us that we have the power to rise above worry, anger, fear, and trouble. By fostering inner strength and happiness, we can face life’s challenges with grace and resilience.
• Confidence and Humility: Having belief in oneself while allowing our actions to speak louder than our words is a balance of confidence and humility. This principle encourages us to be proud of our achievements without boasting, letting our deeds demonstrate our capabilities.
• Universal Faith: Living with the faith that the world is on our side, as long as we stay true to our best selves, instills a sense of hope and belonging. This universal faith supports us in our journey toward self-fulfillment and positive living.

How to Incorporate the Poem’s Principles into Daily Life

Incorporating the principles of “Promise Yourself” into daily life can transform our outlook and interactions with the world. Here are practical tips to live by the poem’s messages:

1. Start Your Day with Positive Affirmations: Begin each morning by reciting parts of the poem or other positive affirmations. This sets a tone of optimism and strength for the day.
2. Practice Mindfulness and Gratitude: Take moments throughout your day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Mindfulness helps in maintaining peace of mind and focusing on the present, reducing stress and anxiety.
3. Speak Kindly: Make a conscious effort to speak positively to and about others. Compliment someone, share encouraging words, or express optimism about your shared future.
4. Seek the Good in Others: In every interaction, try to find and acknowledge the good in the other person. This not only uplifts them but also strengthens your relationships.
5. Set Realistic Goals: Align your dreams with actionable steps. Break down your goals into manageable tasks and celebrate small victories along the way.
6. Learn from Mistakes: View failures as learning opportunities. Reflect on what didn’t work and how you can improve, then move forward with this new knowledge.
7. Share Joy: Smile and share moments of joy with others. Your cheerfulness can be contagious, creating a more positive environment for everyone.
8. Dedicate Time to Self-Improvement: Allocate time for activities that nurture your growth, such as reading, learning a new skill, or practicing a hobby.
9. Avoid Negative Talk: Steer clear of criticizing others. Instead, focus on constructive self-critique that leads to personal development.
10. Nurture Your Inner Strength: Engage in activities that build your resilience to negativity, such as meditation, journaling, or physical exercise.
11. Let Your Actions Reflect Your Beliefs: Live by your values and let your deeds demonstrate the best of you. Actions often speak louder than words.
12. Keep Faith in Humanity: Believe in the goodness of people and the world. This faith will guide you through challenging times and inspire others to do the same.

The Poem’s Impact on Personal Development

Adopting the outlook presented in “Promise Yourself” can significantly impact personal and professional growth. By embodying the poem’s principles, individuals often find themselves more resilient in the face of adversity, more connected to those around them, and more fulfilled in their personal lives.

• Enhanced Resilience: Emphasizing strength and optimism helps individuals bounce back from setbacks faster, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles.
• Improved Relationships: By seeing the good in others and expressing kindness and positivity, relationships become more supportive and enriching.
• Increased Self-Esteem: Focusing on self-improvement and celebrating personal achievements boosts confidence and self-belief.
• Greater Success: Setting realistic goals and pursuing them with a positive attitude often leads to achieving those goals, thereby breeding further success.
• Fostering a Positive Environment: The cheerfulness and kindness that the poem promotes can influence others, creating a more positive community or workplace.
• Personal Growth: Dedicating time to self-improvement results in continuous personal development, making individuals well-rounded and more capable of handling life’s challenges.
• Stress Reduction: Rising above negativity and maintaining an optimistic outlook can reduce stress levels, leading to better mental and physical health.

Conclusion

In wrapping up our exploration of Christian D. Larson’s “Promise Yourself,” it becomes clear that this poem is much more than a collection of uplifting verses. It’s a blueprint for living a life that’s rooted in positivity, resilience, and kindness towards oneself and others. The timeless nature of Larson’s advice speaks to the enduring human quest for happiness and fulfillment, offering guidance that is as relevant today as it was over a century ago.

By embracing the principles outlined in “Promise Yourself,” we can navigate the complexities of modern life with a stronger sense of peace, purpose, and optimism. The poem encourages us to look inward for strength, outward with kindness, and forward with hope. It reminds us that each day presents an opportunity to embody the best version of ourselves, to impact those around us positively, and to contribute to a more compassionate world.

As we move forward, let’s carry with us the essence of Larson’s message. Let’s make our own promise to live with intention, to nurture our inner strength, and to spread joy and positivity wherever we go. In doing so, we not only honor Larson’s legacy but also embark on a personal journey of growth and fulfillment.

“Promise Yourself” is not just a poem to read; it’s a way of life to embrace. Let it inspire you to make your own promise to yourself—a promise to live fully, love kindly and grow continuously.