The first step to making the most out of life is deciding what you hope to accomplish. What is it you desire? There is no right or wrong answer. Maybe you aspire to do satisfying work that will allow you to add value to the world. Maybe you’re looking for a fulfilling relationship that brings you joy. The following timeless tips will help you accomplish all of these things. Are you ready to make the most of your life? Let’s do it.
1. Creativity trumps book-smarts every time.
“Imagination is more important than knowledge.” – Albert Einstein
The greatest minds are not filled with facts, but creativity. The ease-of-access in the information age has eliminated any need for people who fill their brains with facts that could be discovered VIA a simple internet search. Those who innovate will rise above those who regurgitate.
2. You are “inferior” to no other person.
“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
That person you feel inferior to? Get it out of your head. They are not luckier than you. Their brain is not more powerful than yours. They were not blessed with a skill set that you couldn’t develop. Do you really think successful people got where they are today by sheer luck? Do you think they achieved their ambitious goals overnight without setbacks along the way? Michael Jordan was cut from his high-school basketball team because he “wasn’t good enough.” The Beatles were rejected from a studio label because they had “no future in show business.”
The difference between winners and losers is simple. Winners keep moving forward no matter what trials they face while losers give up at the drop of a hat. You don’t lose until you quit, so don’t quit.
3. Slow down and bask in the pleasure of living.
“There is more to life than increasing its speed.” – Mahatma Gandhi
Why are you in such a hurry all the time? The world will not end if you have to stand in line at the grocery store. Driving like a maniac to save two minutes does not make any sense. Tugging your dog on its leash and fussing at it to “hurry up!” is inconsiderate since it spends so much of its day indoors.
Taking your time will give you a much-needed break from the constant hustle of the daily grind. Breathe deeply, quiet your inner-chatter, and take a moment to simply be.
4. Upset by wrongdoing? Do something about it.
“Now, we must all fear evil men. But there is another kind of evil which we must fear most, and that is the indifference of good men.” – The Boondock Saints
Complaining about the world’s ills on Facebook and Twitter does nothing to bring about positive change. If you are truly upset by what you see as evil or wrong, do something about it. Join a movement or protest that you are passionate about. Write blogs or create videos that will mobilize people to your cause.
5. Regret nothing (and do all the things).
“I’d rather regret the things I’ve done than regret the things I haven’t done.” – Lucille Ball
Talking to a stranger you’re physically attracted to isn’t an easy thing to do. Writing a book or blog about that idea you can’t get out of your head requires hard work and dedication. Quitting your job to start a business you’re passionate about does carry a risk. Neglecting to do these things carries the temporary benefit of comfort, but failing to act on your impulses could result in permanent regret.
6. Less thinking, more doing.
“Take time to deliberate, but when the time for action has arrived, stop thinking and go in.” – Napoleon Bonaparte
You should educate yourself and consider your options before you make any decision, but don’t become stuck in an eternal state of limbo. The more you agonize over a decision, the more paralyzed you will become. Gather the most relevant information you need to proceed and get to work.
7. View yourself from the eyes of another.
“Sometimes you can’t see yourself clearly until you see yourself through the eyes of others.” – Ellen DeGeneres
Any time there is tension between you and another person, take a moment to look at the issue from their perspective. This simple action will offer a fresh perspective that will help you avoid pointless arguments over nothing.
8. You are not alone.
“Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships.” – Michael Jordan
I have no doubt that you are a brilliant individual who is capable of accomplishing plenty, but your odds for success will be much greater if you harness the power of teamwork. No one has all of the answers and anyone who thinks otherwise is cocky at best and delusional at worst. Seek a mentor who can provide you with guidance and direction. Make a friend on a level playing field so you can bounce ideas back and forth. Offer your support to a newcomer who you can be a mentor to, growing confidence in your abilities. It is easy to stagnate when you are alone, so surround yourself with people who will help you develop.
9. Failure and pain are life’s greatest teachers.
“Where there is no struggle, there is no strength.” – Oprah Winfrey
There is little incentive to improve ourselves when life is nothing but rainbows, cute puppy dogs, candy drops, and sunshine. Have you ever learned much about yourself during the best of times? Struggles aren’t fun when they are happening, but they tend to be followed by bitter pills that we need to swallow.
10. The worst of times can bring out the best in people.
“It is a curious thought, but it is only when you see people looking ridiculous that you realize just how much you love them.” – Agatha Christie
Have you ever gone through a nasty scuffle with your partner that resulted in such anguish that you broke-up for a whole day or two, but then you realized how empty you felt without this person in your life and reunited immediately? If so, you’re aware of the fact that the worst times have a way of strengthening a relationship in the long-haul.
Part 2 Coming up tomorrow ... Stay Tuned.....
