GOOD LIFE HABITS november 1 2016
#07GOODLIFEHABITS Ups and downs in life….yep, I have experienced plenty. Love, disappointment, children, divorce, success, loss, betrayal, satisfaction, rejection, excitement, achievement and fulfillment - just to name a few. These painful, heartbreaking and beautifully breathtaking moments leave us with our life memories. Memories that make all of us stronger along our life path. I know the more ups and downs I’ve had, the stronger I have become. Wiser because I made the mistakes. Happier because I had the sadness. Resilient because I have experienced the criticism. People (and things) have left my life that I never thought would go and I’ve had obstacles that I never thought would stand in my way. During the good times, it is always so easy to think positively, but when you experience those hard times (and we all do), with a combination of self-doubt and low self-esteem at times, it seems such a struggle to bounce back and exercise good habits into your life. We don’t always see that we’re going to make it out, or how far we’ll get at all. For most, this is a time to lean on your most trusted circle to provide what strength and advice they can. I also try and remember to practice some core ‘good life habits and rituals’ to get me through all those uncertainties that our wonderful lives have to offer.
PROTECT YOUR LEVEL OF HAPPINESS BY TAKING SMALL STEPS IN YOUR LIFE, WHICH ARE REALLY VERY SIMPLE: Be you, focus on you, create your own happiness: Even though you are different, give up trying to be perfect… be you and be authentic. (Read: Uniqueness). Don’t concern yourself with what everyone else is doing. Focus on you and concentrate on creating your own happy state of mind with tiny steps.
“Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are” Kurt Cobain Think about the things you can be grateful for and focus on them: Spend time daily thinking about the things that you are grateful for in your life. They may be simple, but it is the simple things that get you back on the right path. (Read: What Matters Most) Get used to and enjoy your own company: The secret to motivation is increased mindfulness and the art of knowing yourself begins with you. BUT when in company, keep the people that make you feel good about yourself close. Don’t provide any time to those who criticize you: People will always criticize what you are up to… most of the time those who are critical normally have something wrong or to hide within themselves. Stay close to the people that matter. (Read: Best Friends) Don’t allow fear, self-doubt and failure ever stop you: These three often come together and normally before true success, satisfaction and contentment. Think positive and be confident, think of all the things you have achieved in the past. (Read: Self Talk) Be kind: Kindness builds a stronger heart and makes better relationships. The more kindness you give, the better you will feel. Understand and know your weaknesses well: Once you have confirmed this list, learn how to manage and/or overcome them. Life does not have to be perfect for it to be beautiful and fulfilled. Invest time in creating your list of daily rituals that make you feel good and happy which you like. Practice them, especially when things are down during the hard times. This will provide some stability for you. Remember people will judge you by your actions, not your inner-feelings and intentions. You may have a heart of gold, but they will never know that from your intentions, so get out there, take the small steps and remember smiling will make you happier. juliefurlongnotes.com