One of my favorite things to do is read people’s “top 10” lists.
It feels like I’m receiving a ridiculously short “how to” guide on life.
I wanted to create my own and share how I put some of what I’ve learned into practice to honestly love the life I have and have more of the life I want.
I’ve gone from feeling depressed, anxious, constantly stressed and worried to feeling way more calm, compassionate, at peace and in love with myself just the way I am.
Don’t get me wrong. It took more than just doing these 10 things, but each of these now contribute to a much happier and more joyful experience.
Here’s how I practice what I preach on a regular basis to truly love the life I have.
1. Attitude of gratitude
Whether this is journaled, shared with a friend, acknowledged in my mind or as part of a Gratitude Circle, regular gratitude is a key component to me being good with being me.
2. Daily meditation
Spending just 5-10 minutes a day in meditation makes a world of difference. Typically done first thing in the morning, this creates space to appreciate where I am now and learn how to be more at ease with my thoughts throughout the rest of the day.
3. Simple morning ritual
Along with meditation, I implement a very simple morning ritual that consists of drinking a glass of warm lemon water and spending a few moments journaling or writing. Whatever the ritual, it is a great opportunity to have a reliable way to do something for ourselves each and every day.
4. Take it all in
As often as possible I take time to look around and appreciate what is all around me. That might be while walking down the street or sitting at a desk or at a favorite restaurant. This is a great way to get back in the moment and out of any pesky thoughts, fears or worries.
5. Be selfish
Sometimes to love the life I have requires being a little selfish. Maybe that’s spending more time with friends. Having a night in on the couch. Being more mindful about what I commit myself to. Whatever it is, it’s important to check in with our needs on a regular basis and ensure that they are being met as often as possible.
6. Set intentions
One of the greatest things I did was set intentions for the year ahead. Having more clarity on my true desires and how to cultivate more of that on a regular basis helps reduce the “should-ing” and self-doubt.
7. Connect with others
It is amazing what happens when I make eye contact with strangers on the street or give a compliment to my barista. As humans, we need connection and it is one of the quickest ways to experience more joy and spread that joy to others.
8. Smile more often
I make a conscious effort to smile at people. It is such a small gesture that makes a world of difference. It’s also fun to smile at myself more often—whether that’s in the mirror when I’m getting ready in the morning or simply when lost in my own thoughts.
9. Celebrate on a regular basis
Acknowledging what I do (even in a small way) makes it a whole lot easier to love myself and the life I have created. Sometimes it’s easy to get caught up in what else there is to do or what hasn’t yet been done but it is so important to take some time to celebrate what is happening right now.
10. Be 100% present (as much as possible)
There will always be a million things that want my attention but the more often I give one thing my full presence, the more joy I experience. Whether that’s choosing to do the dishes or talk to a friend or go for a walk.
We all know that there is no magic pill or get-(fill-in-the-blank)-quick fix. The most important thing is that whatever we choose to do, we do it from a place of love and acceptance.
We can’t get what we want until we love what we have. {Tweet it out!}
What are some of your favorite ways to practice what you preach and love the life you have? Leave a comment below and inspire others!
P.S. If you are interested in better understanding what you have and how to love it, I invite you to join me for a complimentary Inner Essence Discovery Session. I have 3 spots left and would love to be your guide to discovering what makes you you.
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