15 Ways To Live, And Not Merely Exist
FAR TOO OFTEN we travel through life on autopilot, going through the motions, accepting what is, and having every day pass like the one before it. Everything seems relatively normal and comfortable, except that twitch in the back of your mind that‟s saying, “It‟s time to make some changes.”
Here are fifteen simple suggestions for those who want to break free from the mold and truly live more of their life—to experience it and enjoy it to the fullest instead of settling for a mere existence.
1. Appreciate the great people and things in your life.
Sometimes we don't notice the things others do for us until they stop doing them. Be grateful for what you have, who loves you, and who cares for you. Truly appreciate life, and you'll find that you have more of it to live.
2. Tune out other people‟s negativity.
Ignore unconstructive, hurtful commentary. No one has the right to judge you. You alone can deny their poisonous words access to your heart and mind.
3. Forgive those who have hurt you.
The first to apologize is the bravest. The first to forgive is the strongest. The first to move forward is the happiest. Be brave. Be strong. Be happy. Be free.
4. Be who you really are.
In this world that‟s trying to make you like everyone else, find the courage to keep being your awesome self. And when they laugh at you for being different, laugh back at them for being the same. It takes a lot of courage to stand alone, but it‟s worth it. Being you is worth it!
5. Choose to listen to your inner voice.
Life is a courageous journey or nothing at all. It‟s your road, and yours alone. Others may walk it with you, but no one can walk it for you.
6. Embrace change and enjoy your life as it unfolds.
The hardest part about growing is letting go of what you were used to, and moving on with something you‟re not. You might not end up exactly where you intended to go, but eventually you will arrive precisely where you need to be.
7. Choose your relationships wisely.
The best relationships are not just about the good times you share, they‟re also about the obstacles you go through together, and the fact that you still say “I love you” in the end. Don‟t let loneliness drive you back into the arms of someone you know you don‟t belong with. A great relationship is worth waiting for.
8. Recognize those who love you.
The most memorable people in your life will be the ones who loved you when you weren't very lovable. Pay attention to who these people are in your life and love them back, even when they aren't acting lovable themselves.
9. Love yourself too.
If you can love children, in spite of the messes they make; your mother, in spite of her tendency to nag; your father, even though he‟s too opinionated; your sibling, even though she‟s always late; your friend, even though he often forgets to return what he borrows, then you know how to love imperfect people, and can surely love yourself.
10. Do things your future self will thank you for.
What you do every day matters more than what you do every once in a while. What you do today is important because you are exchanging a day of your life for it. Make sure it‟s worthwhile.
11. Be thankful for all the troubles you don't have.
There are two ways of being rich: one is to have all you want, the other is to be satisfied with what you have. Accept and appreciate things now, and you‟ll find more happiness in every moment you live. And remember, you have to fight through some bad days to earn the best days of your life.
12. Leave enough time for fun.
Sometimes you need to take a few steps back to see things clearly. Never let your life become so filled with work, your mind become so crammed with worry, or your heart become so jammed with old hurts or anger, that there‟s no room left in them for fun.
13. Enjoy the little things in life.
There is joy and wonder to be had in the simplest of moments: watching the sun set over the horizon or spending time with a family member. Enjoy the little things, because one day you may look back and discover they were the big things.
14. Accept the fact that the past is not today.
Don‟t let the past steal your present and future from you. We all make mistakes, have struggles, and even regret things in our past. But you are not your mistakes, you are not your struggles, and you are here now with the power to shape your day and your future.
15. Let go when you must.
It‟s not always about trying to fix something that‟s broken. Some relationships and situations just can‟t be fixed. If you try to force them back together, things will only get worse. Sometimes it‟s about starting over and creating something better. Strength shows not only in the ability to persist, but in the ability to start over again with a smile on your face and passion in your heart.