Even when things get rough and solutions may not be in sight, just knowing and believing that it will eventually work out can make a world of difference in how you live. When you align your mind to enjoy life, accept that things can sometimes go wrong, take responsibility for all actions, thrive at the possibilities each day offers you, and practice gratitude for the gift of life, a shift takes place deep inside that allows you to live more brilliantly.
Here are a few simple practices that have helped me own my sense of well-being and given me purpose to live better…
No matter how rough the day before has been, I wake up with a sense of deep gratitude for life, for the people in my life, for my work and my ability to do it well, for all things big and small that allow me to experience this world.
I believe each day is a brand-new start that allows me to do something different, to experience life in a more enriching way, to correct something I may have done wrong or left unsaid or undone. I believe it is also an opportunity to explore and experience the world all over again.
I seek to better myself and nurture my inner growth each day through music, meditation, chanting, reading and service. Steve Jobs started his day by looking in the mirror and asking himself: “If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?” And that has become my mantra on most days. I know now that time is the biggest currency and I want to ensure that the value I get from spending time is most meaningful and purposeful as I can make it.
Just like everyone else, I do get a lot of my information on digital platforms. However, I strongly believe in the power of reading on paper. I make sure that I get at the very minimum a good read of book genres that I love for at least 20 minutes a day. Being a crafter of words, I feel that reading is very personal. It grows you imagination and improves your focus even as it quietens your mind.
I like to keep things simple. Complex routines are not for me. Even though, over time I have grown adept at multitasking, I still like to switch gears and enjoy the processes of what I am doing with little or no distraction. Being present in the moment deepens my appreciation and connection with the world. There is a certain silence and wisdom in being in the now. It takes practice but it’s really worth learning.
I ensure that I stay mentally and physically active. With the passing years, I see a lot of friends slow down to the idea of age. For me, age is a construct and I know that I can be active, well and healthy for a long time just by having the mindset of choosing what’s good for my body and mind. All of us can make the choice of eating clean, getting fresh air, working out, stimulating the brain and growing a positive mindset.
I love my dogs. They bring out the child in me. Animals are a source innocence and happiness. If you own a dog, you are certain to know this life lesson: No matter what life brings you, kick some grass over that shit and move on. Happiness, after all, is a choice.
