A Guide to Living Intentionally: 9 Steps for a Joyful Life
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Chapter 1: Embracing Life's Guiding Principles
Throughout my journey, I have adopted several guiding principles that shape my outlook on life. While these concepts may appear straightforward, the true transformation arises from the dedication to cultivate habits that change my mindset and interaction with the world. Inspired by those I hold dear and respect, I hope these ideas resonate with you as they have with me.
Living in the moment is crucial; waiting for everything to be perfect or for the right time is futile. Perfection will never arrive, nor will you ever feel entirely prepared. The best advice I can offer is to concentrate on the present, as it is the only certainty we possess.
We often grapple with uncertainty and the unknown, and there's no shame in this struggle. Instead of fearing it, we should embrace it as a chance for growth and learning. Accept that discomfort is part of life and make yourself comfortable in the "not knowing."
We can only manage the aspects of life that are within our control. Let go of what lies beyond your influence. While it may sound easier than it is, we indeed have more control than we often recognize—over our energy, reactions, words, and even our emotions. While we cannot dictate how others perceive or treat us, we can choose how we respond and how their actions affect us.
Section 1.1: Defining Your Values
Take the time to identify your core values. Write them down and revisit them periodically to see if they have evolved. The more attuned you are to your values, the easier it becomes to align your actions and decisions with them. When you act in accordance with your true values, feelings of guilt and regret diminish. Integrity resides here, where I find my sense of pride. Be deliberate in your choices.
Subsection 1.1.1: Taking Responsibility
Accept your mistakes and learn to apologize when necessary. Owning your errors is a vital aspect of integrity that fosters mutual respect between you and others.
Section 1.2: Embracing Compliments
Receiving compliments can be challenging, yet dismissing them undermines the kind intentions behind them. Accept these affirmations graciously; they may hold truth and provide a confidence boost, especially for those grappling with self-esteem issues.
Chapter 2: Cultivating Positive Energy
Laughter is essential—need I say more?
Surround yourself with positivity, as good energy attracts more positivity. Strive to be your best self in every situation; don’t cut corners.
The first video, "Your Thoughts Create Your Life, It's That Simple" by Louise Hay, emphasizes the power of mindset in shaping our experiences.
The second video, "Do schools kill creativity?" by Sir Ken Robinson, discusses the importance of fostering creativity in education and beyond.
Section 2.1: Expressing Your Feelings
Let those around you know how you feel about them. Everyone craves validation and reassurance. There's immense joy in giving and receiving love openly and frequently. By sharing our feelings, we can reduce the likelihood of regretting unspoken thoughts when it's too late.
Check out my other work:
Lauren (Ginger) - Medium
Read writing from Lauren (Ginger) on Medium. Reader. Writer. Activist. Birdnerd. Educator. Queer Crip. Kinkster…