Only two words. Modus operandi in two words. Huh?
I recently listened to the NPR program, “Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me!”, where Henry Winkler was a guest on the show. At one point in the conversation, Winkler shared an encounter he had with another actor during his travels, and the person called Winkler a “happy fella.” Winkler responded with a genuine, “yes.”
He then went on to tell the listeners on the show that he defines his life by two words, only two that drive his focus and purpose every day.
I live by two words – gratitude and tenacity. Tenacity gets me where I want to go… And gratitude doesn’t allow me to be angry along the way.
Henry Winkler
Modus Operandi in Two Words
In listening to the NPR program, I noticed that Winkler’s response was authentic. It felt real and spontaneous. You could tell just by hearing him banter and laugh with the host of the show that Winkler lives his purpose every day based on the two words he mentioned. The two words describe his internal modus operandi, Latin for mode or way of operating or working.
Winkler’s way of being on the inside reflects his living on the outside, in his personality, his attitude, and his way of working in the world. His modus operandi is authentic, and one of his colleagues reflected that insight to him during a casual encounter while traveling.
Only Two Words
When I think of the two words that would describe my modus operandi, my way of operating in life, intention and gratitude immediately come to mind.
- Intention – being purposeful about everything I do each day, especially in service to others.
- Gratitude – being grateful that I can live this day as fully as possible and receive all as gift.
Your Turn
- What words help you focus on living your authentic self in your everyday living?
- How do you describe your modus operandi?
- What two words describe your way of being and operating in the world?
I would love to hear from you and see your two words in the comments below.
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