Life can be hectic at times, always rushing from point A to B. Projects, chores, and errands demand your attention. But the fact is, you will grow old just as quickly weather the myriad of day to day things that compete for your attention get done or not. It is up to you, of course, to decide what things are most important and have to get done. Along with prioritizing your list of “have to’s” to achieve the results that you want out of life, take time everyday to enjoy the experience of being alive. No one is going to receive any bonus points upon reaching old age just because they rushed to get there fast. Here are 7 simple suggestions on how to enjoy life’s journey a little more along the way:
1.Step out into nature
Break from your routine and discover the beauty of being outdoors. Take a walk through a garden, go hiking a mountain trail, or simply enjoy the view sitting in your own backyard first thing in the morning.
2.Tell someone you love them
Your child, your lover, or your old Aunt Sally who sits by the phone wondering why nobody ever calls. Sharing love is the best way to experience more of it yourself.
3.Do something kind for a stranger
Acts of kindness and generosity are never wasted. Try a few and see if you don’t feel better for having done so. Hold a door open for someone while going into a store. Let someone in line ahead of you if they’re dealing with a crying baby. Smile at that person you see everyday that nobody pays much attention to.
4.Slow down
Ask yourself, what is the rush all about anyway? Your next 24 hours of life are going to pass just the same no matter how much or how little you enjoy yourself. Life is a journey, but it need not be hectic.
5.Pamper yourself
Once in a while, order that special desert; go see that movie with no redeeming value that you been wanting to see; or jam out to the kind of music that really gets you going, no matter what the neighbors or the person in the car next to you might think.
6.Take time to be still
If you are in the practice of meditating and it works, keep doing whatever you have been doing. If you’ve never taken regular time to be alone with your thoughts, start with setting aside at least 5 minutes twice a day. Morning and evening are best. Don’t try to set new goals, criticize your performance, or complain about what anybody else did during the day that set you off. Simply notice what is going on inside your mind and how it feels to be you. With practice, you will gain a sense of clarity and inner peace that will begin to help you shape the rest of your life into harmony with the essence of who you are.
7.Really listen to someone you care about
This is one of the best ways of expressing love and offers great benefit to both parties. By really listening in an active and caring fashion, you gain the ability to empathize with someone close to you, and they experience a tangible demonstration of your love for them.
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