And I have learnt......

So, now comes the mandatory stock taking process. What, in software, is called the 'Learnings' section in the 'Post Implementation Review' which effectively means 'Reasons we screwed up'. This is a short list as of now, but the thinker I am, I am sure that it will be as long as a marathon track by the time I am through. Which reminds me - I must start gym again - the physical exhaustion is the best antidote to thinking endlessly and more importantly - uselessly.

1. Our priority list of must have requirements in a relationship are heavily skewed towards what went wrong in the last one.
2. If a guy does not stand up for you now, don't expect that he will change later.
3. It is never too late to say 'No'. Otherwise, you will have to say it when it really is too late.
4. People can hurt you only if you allow them to do so. So, be double triple sure before giving someone the power to hurt you. Of course, it is easy in hindsight :-)
5. Never let somebody else decide your priorities in life for you. You will end up being bullied in making their priorities your own.
6. Believe in your values in life - they are what makes you the person you are. Don't throw them away just because someone feels they are wrong! It is ok to keep changing them, but it should only be if you feel the need and not somebody else. It is also ok to disagree - each person is different - but try to dictate the other person's values system - and wham!!! the relationship falls flat on the face....
7. Never let go of your self confidence. The day its gone is the day your spirit dies. Do you really want to live without a spirit in you?? And, if someone is capable of hurting your self esteem - then ????
8. It is ok to want anything in life as long as you are honest with yourself. We are human beings and cannot always be right or virtuous.
9. Abandon the belief, not the person. The person should come last in the long line of abandonings....this way at least you can look yourself in the eye.
10. If he fails to meet your expectations, it is your moment of truth, not his. Take a decision - ok at least try to take a decision!!
11. Be patient - someday the heart will some day surely catch up with the mind....
12. Time heals - everything - yes everything (though some people may doubt this!) - I can vouch for this!!!