It wasn’t until about ten years ago that I realized that my life was progressing along but I wasn’t truly living it. When I look back now, oh how I wish I had realized this sooner.
What I realized is that you have two choices in life. To be proactive and intentional in living your life or you can be reactive and passive in living your life. Let me tell you, one is way more fun than the other. Not to say I had a bad life before – it was actually quite nice. But once I started truly living my life, everything sparkled brighter in it!
The Value of Experiences
The first way I started living my life was by creating more experiences. Instead of going to meet friends out for appetizers (not to knock that – there’s a lot of fun in that), I did a bit less of that and instead invited my friends out on adventures like aerial obstacle courses, zip-lining, and even an adventure up Mount Kilimanjaro. Through these experiences, we all became closer as we shared a unique experience together.
The memories of these times, unlike most of my nights out for appetizers, will long live with me. They will stand-out and shine as special moments in my life. I encourage anyone feeling like they are just sailing through their life to take some time to plan some stand-out events for them and their loved ones.
Seeking out your Fears
Each of the moments I described above had an element of overcoming fear to them. Overcoming fear with someone has a natural tendency to bring people closer too. Do you have something you would love to do but maybe just don’t have the courage to try it alone? Bring a friend – that way you not only achieve a new challenge but you’ve gained a great new memory with your friend.
As an adventure-seeker myself, I have to say there is nothing better than identifying fear and finding a way to overcome it. There’s a sense of pride and success that comes with it that’s unbeatable! And a friend would most likely be honoured to be asked to share such a special moment with you.
Live in the Moment
Lastly, live in the moment! Four main words here: Put the phone down! Be present at the moment both so you don’t miss the existing moments and to open yourself up to new ones. For example, a friend is more likely to share a personal thought with you if it seems like you are “in the conversation” with them.
Other ways to live in the moment simply are to not be thinking about other things when you are experiencing one of those special moments. It can be hard sometimes, especially if there’s a stressor on your mind. During these times, do what you can to push it aside for the moment and really focus on what you are doing in the here and now. Your experiences will be richer and your memories brighter!
Do tell!
These are all great ways to take an intentional, proactive approach to your life. To add some sparkle to it where perhaps there was just light or even a bit of darkness. What have you done to take the reins on your life? Have you done it by overcoming fears? Living in the moment? What has been the result?
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16 March 2021
I love going on adventures, traveling, seeing new things around. It is such a big deal for me because that way, you are living intentionally and in the moment. I love going meetups with friends too. Thank you for this post ????
You are welcome Rayo – it sounds like you are truly living!!
Love your point on living in the moment! Such a healthy thing to do, especially when it comes to my phone too. I always try to look for a positive thing in each day, even if it was a bad one. There’s usually one tiny thing that was good that makes the day worth it.
Anika | chaptersofmay.com
That is a great practice Anika – there really is always something good in every day, even the rough ones
Great post! I have done a few small adventures with my friends which definitely stand out to me and I’m glad that I have done them, they are definitely memories that I will cherish and look back on! I feel like I could do more but do need to overcome fears, it can be quite scary putting yourself out there more sometimes but I can see how that can help with bringing a lot of joy and experience to your life.
Chloe xx
http://www.chloechats.com
It sounds like you are doing a great job truly living Chloe!
This is a great thought provoking post, these are some things I always think about. Especially during these times.
Omg my partners sister would love this. Will defo keep this in mind for her birthday this year!!
Jessica & James | http://www.foodandbaker.co.uk
I’m really glad you enjoyed the post Jessica and James!
Great fantastic post, I love going on adventures with my partner exploring historic stately buildings, we both can’t wait to explore more when it’s safe to do so
That sounds fantastic Luke – I hope you have a blast!
I am trying to live more intentionally. It’s not something I’m great at, but I’m trying!
Good for you Jen – I hope you have a great time with it!
What a positive and inspirational post! I like to think that I am truly living! I like to live in the moment and I try my best to make the most out of my life ☺️
Ashleigh – https://www.ashleighsmoments.com
Good for your Asheigh! I’m glad you have found the beauty of truly living!
As someone in their very early twenties, this is so useful to hear. It really makes me aware of how I want to and should live my life. Thank you so much for sharing!
You are very welcome Maddie – I’m glad you found it insightful!
This is such a positive and uplifting post to read! Its so important to live in the moment and let go of fear to try new things. Thanks for sharing!
melissakacar.blogspot.com
I’m really glad you enjoyed the post Melissa! Thanks for stopping by and sharing your comments!
I think a lot of people will be reflecting on life and asking themselves questions like this at this time and trying to change things to make the most of it going forward. I could definitely use a few more adventures when this situation is over. Totally agree that many of us should be putting the phone down more x
Sophie
I am definitely ready for an adventure myself Sophie – the challenge I am giving myself is to find some adventures and new experiences within the isolation. I’m sure there are many to be found 🙂
I loved how you broke it all down for us! Very informative. I think in today’s busy world we certainly have a harder time living in the moment. I’m working on that though, and it has seriously made all the difference.
So happy to hear that Alyssa – that’s fabulous!
Great Post, I’ve always been a big Believer in living for the moment and enjoying life!
X
That’s great Takara – it sounds like you already have it mastered!! 🙂
I love the point – living in the present. I think this way I have become more aware, productive and calmer as I am focusing on the task in hand, not the past not the future.
That’s fabulous Jais – congratulations on your successes with this!
I love how you put the emphasis on living for experiences and living in the moment!
I’m glad you enjoyed the article Carson – stay tuned for more 🙂
I couldn’t agree more about living in the moment! You miss so many little things when you are not paying attention, and these moments you will probably cherish more in years to come!
Thanks for sharing!
Aimsy xoxo
Aimsy’s Antics
Yes, exactly Aimsy!