Over Christmas Break, I spent time with my family. As a bonus, I got to hang out with my family dog, Griffin. Every time I walked in the door, I was enthusiastically greeted by my happy-go-lucky buddy. Thinking about my ever-growing to-do list of responsibilities while my dog happily sat at my feet, I wondered what it would be like to approach my life with the same simple optimism with which a dog faces his. I have come to the conclusion that dogs have life figured out. Here are 8 life lessons you can learn from your dog:

1. Live in the moment

Whether they’re chewing a bone or fetching after a ball in the yard, dogs live in the present tense. They don't dwell on the past or worry about future -- they focus on what is happening right now.

2. Enjoy the journey

There’s nothing a dog loves more than sticking his head out of the car window and letting the breeze blow into his ears. It doesn’t matter where you’re going on that ride; a dog will love every minute of it. It’s about the journey, not the destination.

3. Don’t be afraid to get dirty

Are you afraid of jumping in the mud puddles? Griffin keeps his most prized possessions buried under a pile of dirt. Things don’t have to be put-together all the time for good things to happen. Griffin says you might have to pull up your sleeves to get to the good stuff.

4. Forgive and forget

Even after you scold the dog for drinking out of the toilet, he lets it go a few seconds later and moves on. Soon enough, he will be right by your side again.

5. Be loyal

Your dog has seen you at your best and at your worst. Yet, he still loves you the same. Am I taking this lesson to heart with my own relationships?

6. Everyone is a friend

Dogs greet each and every person they meet in the same way: with a wagging tail and a sloppy kiss. They don’t judge people for their appearances.

7. Accept yourself

Dogs couldn’t care less what color their fur is or whether or not they are perfectly groomed. They don’t dwell on the perfections or lack thereof.

8. Love unconditionally

No matter what, dogs will be there for you. They’re always there to give you a wet kiss after a long day and are always happy with any little sign of love and affection.

If you keep your mind and heart open to it, you might realize that life’s lessons can be found in the most unexpected places. I’m going to learn a few things about the simplicity and optimism of life from my pal, Griffin. And when things too hectic and I’m feeling overwhelmed, I won’t let my life go to the dogs.