This article was last updated on December 29, 2015
Many people believe money equals happiness. Measuring happiness by achieving personal financial worth doesn’t equate to a happy life.
It’s how we take steps in the present to contribute to future happiness.
Here’s how to live life to the fullest.
Think A Little Less, Live A Little More
Truth: I am completely addicted to multi-tasking (yep, guilty). Letting go of the past and present to awaken your soul will allow you to find peace and happiness to really live.
I’ve been reading Eckhart Tolle’s The Power of Now, which pushes you to live in the moment every day. With techniques like mindful breathing or doing small things with love, I’m beginning to notice the little things in life and learning to let go of bad habits.
It’s our current decisions in the now that will determine our future, so there’s no use getting lost in the road ahead. Embrace the moment and live life to the fullest.
Dear Self, Follow Your Bliss
It’s normal to feel like you sink more than you swim in your daily life. In the midst of the morning grind and managing your inbox, finding a sense of purpose can be difficult.
Start with self-acceptance of your strengths and weaknesses in your personal life and career. Take inventory of things bringing negativity into your life (i.e. not getting enough sleep). Then, clean up those habits. Focus your attention to things you are grateful for. And remember, give yourself kindness and no expectations during this process.
As your running down your dream, your path will be clear. Your purpose will find you.
All You Need Is Love
At one point or another we have all dreamt of being financially able to repay all of our family and friends who have done so much for us. Pay off mom and dad’s house, pay off all of grandma’s medical bills, buy your sister a new (and safe) car, and treat your best friends to the ultimate getaway, all on you.
We have to spread the love with the thing we know people will appreciate without a dollar spent, which is shear generosity. Give them compassion, mutual respect, and be inspiring to them! Help them live a more courageous life because you are too!
Adventure Is Calling
The only way to live life to the fullest is to dive in headfirst. Stop planning for someday, jump in somewhere, anywhere, bravely, boldly and with zero apologies.
Go explore the beauty of nature or take a yoga class – any healthy activity can trigger your endorphins, which can boost your mood! When you stop giving in to fear and give in to the all the adventure life has to offer that’s when a rich existence is created. So whether it’s backpacking through Europe or taking on a humanitarian effort of Mother Teresa size proportions, just give it a shot. That’s what life is all about.
So although your bank account may not have many four, five or six-digit figures, you’re really already rolling in riches.
You just have to go out and claim your fortune.
Photo credit: Lauren Rushing
