Here are 3 simple questions to ask yourself right now to see if you’re taking yourself for granted.
If you seem to be spending your life putting yourself last, in every situation, then my hope is that after reading this short post, you will find a little bit of clarity and at the same time put a whole lot of joy back into your life.
1. Have I found the joy?
Have you discovered what it is in your life that brings you joy?
The 'thing' that makes you feel warm and content from the inside out?
The ‘something’ that whenever you think about it, makes everything in your life simply that little bit better?
It absolutely doesn't matter what it is.
Your life partner. Your lover. Your pet iguana. Your new pair of trainers. Your granny's fish pie. Your morning meditation.
Your yoga class.
That first cup of steaming hot coffee. Fell running in the Lake District.
Your CrossFit class.
Whatever it is. Take your mind there whenever life becomes challenging.
Which leads nicely into question number 2.
2. How do I handle challenges?
The most fulfilled people are content simply because they have worked life out.
They know that there will always be a challenge.
Car breaks down, it’s pouring with rain and you’re late for your job interview.
You’ve got a hot date with Charlie from marketing and you can't find your skimpy knicks.
An asteroid is about to strike and its impact point is going to be Manchester best loved football stadium (the Sky Blue one.)
You lose your job and the mortgage is due.
How you handle life’s challenges will go a long way to determining your contentment.
So use this simple formula and stop waiting for life to get easier and instead, plan for the next challenge to rear its head.
3. Am I helping others to find the joy in their lives? ‘
If you want to be content, make someone else content and a little bit of that fulfillment will rub off on you.’
Pick a day and spend it just giving of yourself, freely, without expecting anything in return.
Carry a stranger's shopping to their car next time you’re at Tesco.
Pay for the car behind you next time you’re at the MacDonald’s drive through.
Or simply give up an hour of your time to listen to a friend who is going through a rough time without feeling you should fix them or give them your advice.
“Learn to light a candle in the darkest moments of someone’s life. Be the light that helps others see; it is what gives life its deepest significance.” ― Roy T. Bennett
My hope is that by using these three simple concepts, your life will start to feel lighter and brighter.
I would love your comments.
Have a great week
Craig
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