Getting More Out of Life

Most of us feel sad or annoyed or lacking in some way at one time or another. Our society continually shows us that we are too fat, don’t drive the right car, aren’t eating the right foods, don’t have the right house, job or wardrobe. There are also other forces that contribute to this. A loved one may be sick or loss of a job or family problems. We also have our own inner voice that tells us we need something more to be happy. The truth is, we are in complete control of our lives. We choose to pay attention to things that either make us happy or not. There are several ways to get out of this pattern.

Attachment: Buddha tells us attachment is the root of suffering. If we do not feel attached, then the loss of these things cannot make us unhappy. While this is true, it is difficult to practice. Perhaps learning to let go of things beyond our control is one way to be happier.

Gratitude: Take stock in what we do have. Look at how 80% of the world really lives. Having a roof over your head, non contaminated food, clean water, adequate clothing and just the basic necessities of life are a not available to so many. Count your blessings. Write a list of all the good things in your life. Really, sit down and get out a paper and pen and make this list. It can be humbling to look at what we really do have.

Take action: How many times have you heard yourself say “I can’t.” Remove this phrase from you vocabulary and start using positive words. This has more of a psychological effect that you may realize. Get out another piece of paper and start this project. Write down the goal you have set. Perhaps it is to get a better job or finish school or buy a house or just paint the garage. Write down the ultimate goal at the top of the page. Now, make a list of all the steps required to accomplish this goal. Using paint the garage as an example, your list might look like this: Paint the Garage – 1. Choose a color 2. buy paint. 3. buy brushes and rollers. 4. empty all the contents…..and so on. Now start each day by accomplishing one item on the list. If you run into a snag you can create a new list to accomplish the task. For instance, you may not have the money to buy the materials, but by skipping to number 4 you realize how much junk you have so hold a garage sale and get rid of some things you don’t need and use the money to buy the materials!

Whatever your roadblock is, just keep working toward your goal. Make sure to do something toward the goal every day, no matter how small. If one step is too much, break that down into smaller steps. Just keep moving forward.

Be confident: Fear will hold you back so surround yourself with positive people and those that support you and your dreams. It can make all the difference. But remember, in the end, you must do it for yourself.

We would love to hear some feedback. Let us know how you are able to overcome the hurdles in life.

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