Leila El-Dean
Do you ever feel as though you’re missing out? It’s like life is passing you by – one painfully slow day at a time.
To make matters worse, other people are seemingly living their lives in the fast lane.
Acting like there’s no tomorrow.
Continually moving, traveling, making friends, and learning new skills. Not to mention, ordering the weirdest items off the menu.
It’s like they’re fearless and unburdened by the conventions of space and time.
But you…
Well, you’re stuck in the same old routine and unable to break free.
Don’t worry! It’s never too late to pick up the pace and grab life by the horns.
So, it’s time to dust off the cobwebs and stop merely existing. Here are eight habits of people who live their lives to the fullest to help you on your way.
Let’s see if any of these spur you into action.
1) Say “yes” more often (and see where it takes you)
When you’re stuck in a comfort zone, it can be difficult to leave.
It’s familiar, dependable, and completely stress-free. It’s like that by design (your design) and everything is just how you like it.
Simply put, you’re in control.
But here’s the thing.
That “safe space” is holding you back and preventing you from much-needed personal growth.
So, next time an opportunity comes knocking, say “yes” and see where it leads.
Who knows what hidden talents and strengths are just waiting to be unlocked? Not to mention the world of possibilities you’re currently missing out on.
You may even enjoy yourself in the process.
2) Prioritize “me time”
Of course, adding “yes” to your vocabulary doesn’t mean you can’t also say “no.”
In short, you need to put yourself first.
People who live their lives to the fullest understand it’s all about balance and asserting your boundaries.
There’s no fun in spreading yourself too thin or giving in to peer pressure for the sake of it. That’s not what leaving your comfort zone is all about.
It’s an attitude adjustment.
And that’s why it’s important to pencil in some “me time.”
Taking a moment for yourself is a great way to reflect, make future plans, or focus on self-care.
It could be going for a walk, working out at the gym, reading a book, or simply taking a long bath.
Whatever you want.
At the end of the day, you’re only human. There’s a limit on how much you can take on.
3) Live in the now
How often do we spend glancing down at our phones or looking at the world through a camera lens?
It’s probably more than we’d care to admit, right?
According to research, smartphones have become our pocket-sized homes.
But think about it.
Why are you gazing at a screen (snapping “jealousy shots” for the gram) when you can experience it firsthand? And in full HD.
Let’s face it, you’re no Martin Parr.
And this? It’s a prime example of an opportunity missed.
Here’s the thing.
Life isn’t lived in the past or the future – it’s lived in the now.
When you allow yourself to be present, it gives you a chance to take in the beauty around you. Most importantly, connect with those who matter.
So, put your phone away, stop dwelling on the past, and savor the here and now if you want to embrace life.
4) Don’t fear failure
Fear is perfectly normal. It’s our body’s way of keeping us safe – a fight-or-flight response that goes back to our caveman days.
But while fear is important, it can also prevent us from living life to its fullest.
Let me put it this way.
You’re reacting not responding.
Failure teaches valuable lessons, resilience, and the strength to keep going.
Those who live life to the fullest aren’t afraid to fail because they know it’s all part of the journey – a stepping stone.
So, don’t let fear of failure hold you back. Embrace it, learn from it, and keep moving forward.
5) Set clear goals (and smash them)
Lacking motivation or drive? Perhaps you have ambitions but never seem to have enough hours in the day.
Well, it might be time to set some goals.
That’s right!
Making plans and setting goals (with realistic deadlines) is an excellent way to prompt you into action.
It provides you with focus.
And research suggests that those who write down their goals are more likely to achieve them.
You see…
When you live life without a timeline or roadmap, it’s easy to veer off course and procrastinate.
Ultimately, there’s no commitment, structure, or way to track your progress.
All that leads to nothing getting done.
Sometimes, though. You need to…
6) Go with the flow
Life is full of ups and downs – it’s unpredictable.
And sometimes those rigid plans are actually preventing you from trying something new.
That’s why it’s important to be open to change.
People who live lives to the fullest know this. In response, they’ve learned to be flexible and adaptable.
They don’t get frustrated (or complain) when things take an unexpected turn. Instead, they keep positive and enjoy the ride.
Excited by what potentially awaits them.
After all, plans are made to be broken. Adventure is all about taking risks and exploring uncharted territory.
By embracing this flexible approach to life, you’ll be better equipped to handle life’s twists and turns.
7) Channel your inner explorer
Life is all about the pursuit of new experiences, knowledge, and personal growth.
It’s what you’ve been doing since you were a baby.
But just because you’ve learned how to walk, talk, and eat on your own, it doesn’t mean the lessons have to stop.
There’s always more to discover.
And that’s something people who live their lives to the fullest know all too well.
Because of this, they like to adopt an explorer mindset.
What’s that?
In a nutshell, it’s giving into curiosity, seeking knowledge, and having an adventurous spirit.
When all is said and done, new experiences keep life exciting and vibrant. Not only that, but they break the monotony and give you stories to tell.
Sometimes it’s easy to take it for granted.
But by expanding your horizons, you’re also opening yourself up to making lifelong memories.
Go on, give into your natural curiosity, and see where it takes you. Life is too short to say “no” to adventures.
8) Appreciate the little things
Mindfulness and gratitude go hand in hand with happiness.
That’s why it’s important to appreciate the little things.
You know, be grateful for all the good in your life. Rather than concentrating on the negatives.
Not only does this put things into perspective, but expressing gratitude is known to boost your psychological well-being.
It’s scientifically proven.
So the next time you’re concerned you’re not living life to the fullest, be thankful for what you do have and find joy in everyday moments.
And remember, it’s never too late to make a change and embrace these eight habits for yourself.
