How to Get the Most Out of Your Life

By Lena Edwards

So you’re here…living your life and doing the best that you can. As none of us received any set instructions, nor we were born with any real guidelines to follow, the most we can do is gather our experiences, listen to others and educate ourselves to lead a fulfilling and satisfying lives whatever that means to us. Despite the hardest of attempts and our good intentions we are often left feeling that there is something missing in our lives or that we simply lack purpose.

This step by step guide had been passed on to me by my grandfather who in turn received it from his father. The exact origins of the text are unknown to me but as I found the message it carries to be so powerful I decided to share it with you.

Step 1 Find yourself, get to like that person and never compromise your values.

Take time to find out exactly what you do like, what inspires you, what makes you feel appreciated and content. Dig deep to discover what are your dreams, aspirations, ambitions and passions. Don’t focus only on the positives. To truly understand oneself one needs to realize one’s limitations and weaknesses. Human beings are made out of the good and bad qualities equally but it is admitting to the negative character flaws that will give you the power to overcome or control them. Knowing yourself will help you in every aspect of your life. It will make it easier for you to make choices, structure your plans and will help you to move past your limitations and bad habits. Also remember never to cheat or lie to yourself as it is always the most difficult to forgive yourself and let go of the times that you failed not others but yourself alone. Have your own principles and stick to them, no matter how hard it might seem sometimes. A person with no values is indeed an empty jar waiting to be filled with the mistakes of others.

Step 2 Appreciate the people who love you.

No matter how many times you have heard that one before it is still as true as when someone said it to you the first time. Love is the most important thing you can ever receive. We are all born the same and unfortunately we are all going to die, no exception. The amount of material things and money that you gathered on your death bed won’t mean anything to you, but a person holding your hand, looking into your eyes and whispering that they love you will really mean everything. Although wealth can make your life a lot easier it is people that will make it worth living for. Learn to forgive. Don’t ever underestimate the power of words and gestures. Don’t ever wait to tell someone that you care about them. And most importantly don’t be afraid to love and feel even if it means getting hurt. Use your heart, because along with your mind it’s the most powerful tool you have been given.

Step 3 Never let anyone tell you differently.

Don’t live your life sponging information that is provided to you. Go and examine things for yourself. Don’t ever be a follower but rather create your own destiny. Find your own path and if there isn’t one be the first one to make it by walking into the unknown. Never let anyone put you down or tell you that you can’t do something. And never dis encourage others in reaching for their desires. Be the one that lives life with knowledge and understanding instead of ignorance.

Step 4 Learn learn and learn more.

Don’t ever settle on what you already know. Improve your knowledge every day because the knowledge itself has the power to change you, improve you, set you free. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Remember that the only stupid questions are the ones that we didn’t ask. Don’t let everyone else do things for you… that way you will never understand the process involved, the value of work or satisfaction from achievements. Try growing your own herbs, making your own furniture, fixing your appliances, cooking your own meals or even making your own Christmas decorations. We learn all our lives and it is only then that we truly advance and appreciate the world around us.

Step 5 Retain the child within you.

Children are but the most amazing creatures. They are not frightened to try new things but excited and hopeful. They treat the smallest of their chores like the biggest adventure. They are capable of the purest kind of joy, one that doesn’t look for hidden agendas nor seeks other benefits. They are curious and open to new ideas. They use their imagination as the driving force behind their little projects. They don’t obsessively look into the future but wonder what are they going to do tomorrow. Learn from children and try to be more like them. Don’t be afraid of living but be scared of not trying.

Step 6 Never procrastinate

Don’t waste time as it is one of the only things that you can’t bring back. If you want to do something stop talking about it and act. Act today as if there won’t be another chance to start. Progress each day towards your big dreams. Picture them in your head and move closer to achieving them. Don’t wait, don’t make excuses, don’t come up with new doubts. Instead arm yourself with desire and let that feeling lead you to whatever you wish to accomplish. Remember that your success will be only be as great as your desire to succeed.