We have all seen the phrase ‘results may vary’ so often that it is almost invisible to us.

You see it on any TV commercial or advertisement about diet or fitness programs and there will be plenty of them as we approach the New Year. Companies will use the skinniest and prettiest person they can find to peddle their wares with the disclaimer that ‘results shown are not typical.’

If it is good enough for TV and magazines maybe we should start to use it as well. How about putting it on your resume? Can you imagine a small disclaimer at the bottom indicating that while you have portrayed yourself and the best thing since sliced bread – results shown are not typical!

Or, what about adding it to your profile on MySpace or FaceBook letting everyone know that the picture shown may not be exactly how you look today.

On the flip side, maybe these ads are on to something. Instead of working so hard to make everything just right, getting caught up having to have things perfect you can relax a bit knowing that results may vary.

As you plan and prepare for the many holiday outings and get-togethers this season remember – things may not go exactly as you planned. Go with the flow, relax and enjoy the holidays. Wanting things to be perfect can add a lot of unnecessary stress and worry. Whether your party or event is for the big boss or your mother-in-law, remember that whatever you do will be good enough.

Be yourself, be pleasant and be happy.

Don’t forget this disclaimer when your friends and family open the presents you have worked so hard to find. They may not be as excited about that new sweater as you were when you bought it.

Just remember – results may vary.

Kirk Wilkinson is an expert on how to be happy and has been featured in national magazines, newspapers and critically-acclaimed radio shows. He is the author of The Happiness Factor.

For more tips and advice on just being happy, visit Kirk’s blog.

Filed under: Fabulous Guest Bloggers, just be happy