10 Ways To A More Fulfiling Life

Some of the best teachers are those who haven’t taught their best lesson yet. Some of the best writers are those who haven’t written their best piece as of yet. Some of the best dancers are those who haven’t yet mastered all the steps. Some of the best psychologists are those who haven’t figured out all the answers. Life is a series of small steps and growth opportunities.

1. Pray – The misconception with prayer is that you have to say your Hail Mary’s and Our Father’s, or you’re not really praying. Prayer is talking to God and although there is nothing wrong with traditional prayer – God wants to hear your own unique voice. Praying from your heart is a good way to develop a personal relationship with Him.

2. Be Grateful – It’s hard to be grateful in times of despair, but try to find at least one thing everyday that you are appreciative of and thankful for.

3. Show Love – Love is the greatest gift given to us. It conquers all things. Love with an open heart and love everyone around you. Don’t be afraid or ashamed to express it. Fill your heart up with unconditional love. Love your enemies and those who mistreat you.

4. Compliment Others – Give compliments to others around you. To your friends, family and even the cashier at the grocery store. Make others feel good about themselves.

5. Be a Blessing to Someone – Do favors and be a blessing to someone. When you are a blessing to someone, God will make sure you are blessed.

6. Take Time – Take time for yourself to enjoy all the things around you. Pamper yourself. Whoever told you that life was meant to be about running from one job to the next, lied. Get rid of that belief. Enjoy reading a book, sitting on the beach, spending time with friends, taking a walk in nature or whatever else brings you joy. Joy is the point. Period.

7. Be Present – Be in the moment of all that you do. Try to focus on the here and now. It’s easier to enjoy a day at the beach when we focus on being at the beach, rather than thinking about all the things we have to do when we get home. It’s easier said than done – I know, but I found that it really does make a difference, even if practiced for just a moment.

8. Forgive – Forgive others. Nobody is perfect. We all have made mistakes and have needed, or will need forgiveness. Remember that. Try to see yourself in all of the people that do you wrong. Sometimes the person we need to forgive the most is ourselves.

9. Have Faith – “Faith is the substance of all things hoped for.” (Hebrews 11:1) Trust and believe that all things work together for your highest good. That as you ask, you are receiving. Go from believing to expecting that good things are coming your way.

10. Be Happy – This is probably the hardest one of all to master. If you can bring yourself to the point where you are happy no matter what, you’ve truly mastered your life. It’s difficult to find happiness despite our circumstances, but if you can, I’m convinced you will find great peace in everyday living. All the great teachers have taught us that we need to find a way to be happy no matter what disharmony is happing around us.

Disclaimer: Practicing these steps everyday will probably dramatically alter your life. I have not yet mastered all the steps myself, but I am sure that there is a power in God and a magic in the universe that exceeds all understanding. If we can learn to harness this power, we will see our lives transformed and miracles happen all around us. Practice makes perfect. I hope to see you on the journey.

With love…