
I like to enjoy life to the fullest. Especially since I have a chronic illness and can’t do all the things I would want to do.
Most people believe “living life to the fullest” means being rich and being able to afford anything they desire. Owing to this idea, the majority of us spend most of life working hard and saving, climbing up the corporate ladder and always feeling that more can be done. As a result, our life is completely consumed by the obsession of accumulating wealth, which keeps us from doing the things we love, with the people we love (pretty sad, huh?). The key to living a happy life is not trying to earn more: it can be found in the simple things, like the time we spend with family and friends, enjoying nature, making art… anything that makes your heart full. Blogging obviously!
With the start of a new year, comes the opportunity to make changes. So if you feel that there are things you want to change in your life, now may be the perfect time to make a shift.
Below is a list of tips that can help you live your best life.
Believe in Yourself
One big mistake that at some point we have all been guilty of, is thinking that others have it better than us- that their lives are better than ours. We are constantly comparing ourselves to others, easily forgetting that every person has their strengths and weaknesses. When you feel jealous of someone, remember that it’s quite likely that he or she has a lot of insecurities, just like you. Happiness can be found in little achievements and when you believe in yourself. Also, if you don’t believe in yourself, who in the world will?
Get moving whenever you have the chance
The benefits of physical activity on the mind have been proven extensively. The list is long but being active increases the production of serotonin, also known as the “happiness hormone”, this leads to a general sense of happiness and wellbeing after a workout. Being active is something very important to find time to do as it have tremendous benefits also on your health, especially in the long run. Those that have busy lives (hello full-time job and being a mom!) can rely on fitness apps like the 30 days Fitness Challenge for example, to squeeze in a workout even from home and when time is limited.
Connect With Others in your life
Connecting with other likeminded people gives you a chance to share experiences, help each other out and have fun with people that share the same passions as you. Meeting new people can increase the number of non-work related activities, like attending festivals, going the gym, book clubs etc. You can also connect with people on online platforms such as Facebook, local groups, or chatrooms for example. If you tend to stay in your own head, opening up to people can be a way to step out of your comfort zone- not to mention, it’s a great opportunity to make new friends.
Be Present
Living in the present and enjoying the moment is one of the best things you can do for yourself! Let go of your previous thoughts, fears or things that held you back and live in the feeling of the moment. Make memories that will make you want to put your phone away to savor the joy.
Focus On the Positives in your life
It’s proven that if you think positive, it will affect your overall mood and outlook on life and your day. If you think for a minute how lucky you are to be healthy, to have a job and roof over your head as a starter, you can begin the self-improvement from there. Positive thinking can help you set and complete daily goals.
Eat Well
Poor health is one of the major causes of stress as it limits one from the fun things in life. The food we eat is like the fuel to our bodies, and you cannot expect a healthy body if you fuel it with unhealthy food. Eating a colorful food plate, of course with some sweets here and there to treat yourself, you will notice an increase in your energy levels and overall happiness.
Take Care of Your Body
I know you’ve heard the phrase “my body is my temple” so many times, but it’s true! At the end of the day, our bodies are the most important things. Without them, we wouldn’t be living. Therefore, take the extra classes at the gym, sleep in an extra hour, get the facial. Because your body deserves it.
Try New Things
The reason that you are not happy with your life maybe because you have not yet discovered what makes you feel better. The only way you can find out the activities that add happiness in your life, is by exploring! Take a friend with you on this self-discovery journey. And be open to trying new things such as foods, or new walking routes.
Travel
Travelling is an excellent source of happiness as it allows one to get away from the stressful daily hassles and go to new places with new people and cultures. Studies have shown that traveling brings more joy than buying a materialistic item. The world is waiting for you!
Practice Gratitude and Count your Blessings
There is a sense of happiness when you acknowledge your achievements instead of comparing yourself to others. Appreciating the little results is a source of motivation to continue chasing your dreams.
No one knows you better than yourself. And you are the only one who can change your life for the better. The above tips are some small, general ways of improving our lives and experiences. Whichever way works best for you. I really hope you take some of these into consideration and treat yourself a bit better. Put your phone away, and make some beautiful memories. You only live once! Enjoy life!
Would really appreciate it if you would share my photos on Pinterest.
This is a nice reminder, Nancy, thank you! I might add to that “Put down your devices” and connect in the here and now. Don’t record the concert – dance, sing along! Put your phone away when you’re out with your partner! When you’re with friends or family, be there – life is short, and you never know what the next day will bring.
Author
Exactly!
Oh yes…. traveling. I am looking forward my vacation. Can’t wait :))
Author
Me neither! April!
Such good tips and I agree with them all! These basic actions really make a difference!
xo,
Kellyann
Author
They do! Thanks Kellyann!
Travel is probably our top one. And then I need to keep on working on the eating well and moving more.
http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com
Author
Eating well does make a difference in how you would feel!
This is so good and true Nancy!! I always need the reminders like this!!
I’ve so enjoyed connecting with other women lately!! It just floats my boat!
Xoxo
Jodie
Author
And that is the best isn’t it!
Beautiful post Nancy!
Author
Thanks Rebecca!
Such great tips thanks so much for sharing them with us. I really need to try believing in myself more, I’m guilty of being too harsh on myself for everything I do xo
Makeup Muddle
Author
Oh don’t! Life is to short for that my dear!
You talk so wisely, Nancy!!! I truly agree with all of them.
Me, also I am too harsh on myself, but I am very permissive with others. I have to start believing myself more!!!
XoXo,
Adriana.
http://glossyu.com/
Author
You should, because believe me, life is just to short!
Nancy, these are all such wonderful ideas and I cannot wait for festival season to arrive because that is where I have found my happy place! But I do have some travel plans in two weeks with 2 live concerts included so I am super excited about that. Hopefully it will pull me out of these winter blues. Thanks for sharing this lovely post at my link party!
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Author
Oh yes, I can’t hardly wait for festival season to begin! What concerts are you going to visit?
I am not sure what is on my concert going agenda this festival season! But I am going to see Umphrey’s McGee and Fireside Collective in 2 weeks! I am super excited for a little mid winter vacation!
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Author
I don’t know either, have to Google it! But it’s something to look forward too!
That is very good great advice. Traveling is a thing that makes me happy. And obviously blogging too. o) I need to believe in myself more but this is work in progress. o)
Author
It is work in progress, but don’t waist time!
Great tips Nancy. I need to start exercising more and now I’ve started travelling I do not want to stop home!!
Thanks so much for sharing your post with us at 5 Adorable Photos Of The Penguins At Twycross Zoo: welcome to the weekend link up.
Hope you can join us tomorrow 🙂
Author
Haha, will you have too! Happy weekend Claire!