Written by Cloé Vaz-Wiggins
Image by @didistone
A better life
How does that sound to you? What do you see when you hear it? What comes to mind? Who comes to mind? When you think of a better life, what do you think of?
Most importantly, how much of building that life you know for a fact is up to you? Do you take full accountability for it? Let’s start here: you have to practise, choose and stay consistent to that commitment. You have to keep reminding yourself that to have a better life you have to choose and actively get to the business of creating one. And that means to take back control regardless of what’s happening around you.
No, of course it’s not that black and white or simple. Of course, it’s easier said than done. Life happens, being an adult is a phenomenon on its own, not to mention all of the grey areas that come with being a human being that has and feels emotions so deeply. Nonetheless, it is up to you. And this is one of those core beliefs you should try to never waiver on and you should keep reminding yourself of. Specially on the days when it’s hard to believe it is up to you, because those days will come, for all of us. Staying the course is also part of creating a better life, believing it’s up to you, is part of creating a better life.
Awareness and clarity
We sometimes forget that this is really our life we are living. We settle, think setting boundaries is a privilege, spend our whole life believing constructs that were designed to keep us from ourselves and forget that we have the control to do with our life experience whatever we want. We’re in the driving seat, we’re choosing. Set clear and attainable goals for what you truly want of your time here and start here.
Be present in gratitude
Who said that if you focus on what you don’t have, you’ll never be satisfied with what you do have? Pretty sure it was Oprah and besides the absolute sense it makes, who hasn’t looked at some part of their lives and thought or said out loud ‘I don’t have this or that’. I’m pretty sure at some point, all of us. Our default is to point out the things we not yet achieved when really the innate mindset should be: I HAVE. We should always come back to gratitude. We should make an effort to focus on all of the things we do have, no matter how big or small they are. We have, we’re grateful.
Move your body
It’s important that you find the type of movement you enjoy. If it’s walking, walk, if it’s lifting, lift, if it’s dancing, dance, if it’s Pilates get it. Regular exercise promotes cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles and bones amongst so many other physical benefits. Exercise also has a profound impact on our mental well-being. It stimulates the release of endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones, which can improve mood, reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Regular physical activity has been linked to enhanced cognitive function, improved memory, and increased focus.
Moving your body also increases blood flow and oxygen supply to your muscles and organs, resulting in improved energy levels and increased vitality. Regular exercise can reduce fatigue, boost stamina, and enhance your ability to perform daily tasks and activities. Essentially, if you want a healthier life, find your way of moving your body every day. Yes, every day.
Sleep
Sleep is essential for the body’s healing and repair processes. It supports the immune system, helping to prevent illness and fight off infections. You guessed it, it’s also closely linked to mental health and emotional well-being. A good night’s sleep helps regulate mood, reduces the risk of depression and anxiety, and enhances emotional resilience. We all know how we feel when we don’t sleep well, the goal is to make it a priority.
Keep learning
Always be a student. Be curious and committed in lifelong learning and personal development. Seek out new experiences, acquire new skills, and expand your knowledge. Read books, take courses, attend workshops, or explore online resources. Embracing learning opportunities can lead to personal growth, increased confidence, and new opportunities.
Through the process, it’s important to be patient and kind to yourself along the way, creating a better life is a journey. Small steps taken consistently over time can lead to significant positive changes. Always come back to the clear picture of what that better life looks like to YOU and enjoy the ride.
