Cliches like “life is short” stick around because while they might sound a little worn-out, they are also true. It can be all too easy to live life on autopilot, working or going to school and taking care of your responsibilities. Before you know it, months, years or even decades may pass, and you may wonder what you have to show for that time. The tips below can help you start making the most out of your life right now.
Pay Attention
Just paying attention to what is going on around you can make a huge difference. Take the time out to observe sensory sensations. Sit in your yard or outside your office for 10 minutes and notice what you hear and see. When you are spending time with your friends and family, put down your phone and really listen to what they are saying to you. When you eat, taste each bite. You’ll be surprised at how rich your everyday experiences can be.
Set Goals
Your life will full if you are working toward something. These can be conventional goals, like succeeding at work, but they don’t have to be. Your goals might be focused on raising your children, deepening a spiritual practice or getting better at a hobby. Setting goals can help you create a sense of structure and meaning in your life and give you a reason to get up every day.
Maximize Your Resources
Most people have more than they realize in many different ways. You are probably stronger and more capable than you imagine yourself to be. You most likely have at least one friend, family member or even acquaintance who would prove themselves to be far more helpful and loyal than you ever imagined in a crisis. You may also have more concrete resources than you realize. Just the ordinary life that you live would have been considered luxurious beyond belief by most of the people throughout human history. On top of that, if you need more money to achieve your goals, you might be surprised at what is available to you. For example, if you have life insurance, you may want to review a guide on selling your policy. A life settlement allows you to access death benefit while still living and can give you the money you need to pursue your dreams.
Try New Things
Do you remember your last vacation? Chances are not only is your answer “yes” but you remember each day in much more vivid detail than you do your normal life. There’s a reason for this. Novelty makes us pay attention. Being mindful on a daily basis is all very well and good, but there’s also value in doing new things for their own sake. For some people, trying a new thing might mean skydiving or moving to another country while for others, the new thing might be walking down a different street or trying a new food. They don’t have to be big things, but it’s never a bad idea to push yourself a little bit outside of your comfort zone. You may discover something new about yourself, and you’ll create more lasting memories.
