Are you one of those who look at people in the public space – showbiz celebrities, top business tycoons and prominent politicians – as people who live magical lives worthy of our envy because you think they are flawless people, living the fairy-tale life of riches and glamour?
When we compare our lives to theirs, we may feel diminished and lose our sense of self-esteem. The poem “Desiderata” tell us that “if you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your career, however humble.” We should all try not to lose our own sense of self.
Here are a few things you can do to rewire your thought process and begin to live your own life, unconcerned with how others are living their lives:
Know your purpose
Are you wandering through life with little direction, but still hoping that you’ll find peace, prosperity, health and happiness? You really cannot get anywhere in life if you do not put in the needed thought process to identify your life purpose. Once you take this needed step, you will have your own unique compass that will lead you to your true destination.
If you did not have the discipline to think through your life purpose, you may find yourself currently directionless, in a tight corner or dead end. We are more resilient than we may think we are, so reach down to that reservoir of spiritual strength that is deep within to turn things around – it can make all the difference in your life.
Know your end goals
What do you want? Make a list of your top things you desire to enable you live a meaningful life. As you set your goals, check your goals against your values e.g. authenticity, love, balance, self-respect, peace, etc. If the goal doesn’t align with any of your core values, you may want to reconsider it or revise it.
Define and know your needs
What are your needs? Most of us have a need to be loved, to be in charge,
to be appreciated, to be respected, to be acknowledged, to be famous, etc. Unmet needs can keep you from living authentically. Take care to note what your needs are and how to moderate them so that you live your life true to yourself without harming others. There are so many people coasting through life without due attention to properly defining and addressing their needs. This leads to a life of unfulfilled dreams and regrets, stress and possible depression. Define and know your needs and take the necessary steps to fulfil them – with due consideration to others – before it’s too late!
Know your passions
You know who you are and what you truly enjoy in life. Obstacles like doubt and a lack of enthusiasm will only hinder you, they will not derail your chance to become the person you ought to be. Express yourself and honour the people who have inspired you to become the very person you want to be.
Make time for reflection
Do you make out time for yourself, a time you are alone and in silence to try and increase your awareness of your inner self? Psalm 4: 4 tell us – “Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still.” Breathe deeply to quiet your distracted mind. By regularly reflecting in silence, you open yourself up for inspiration that comes from within to live a purposeful life.
Honour your strengths
What are you good at doing? What are those things you love to do?
What are your positive traits? What special talents do you have? Are you imaginative, witty, or good with your hands? Find ways to express your true self through your strengths. Focus on building on your positive traits and special talents – you can share what you know with others and give meaning and purpose to your life.
Be of service to others
When you live a purposeful life, you may find that you tend to be at peace with yourself and the world. When you are true to whom you are and living out your life purpose, you should share your gifts and talents with others. The reward for doing so is indeed great. “It is more blessed to give than to receive” – Acts 20: 35.