Here and How

Despite our differences, we all share a common desire to live a fulfilling life. It’s one of the things that make us humans — well, human. As social beings, we crave for meaning in everything we do. We want to get the most out of our experiences and so we intentionally seek purpose in things we go through.

The question here is: what does a fulfilling life look like to you? Is it one where you’ve got a lot of money for everything you want and need? Or is it where you have the best relationships with the people you love and those around you? Or is it a life of peace, wellness, and contentment? The following are five helpful tips that will help you create a happier and more fulfilled life.

1. Live in the moment.

Our physical body resides in the present, but from a mental standpoint, things don’t often go this way. Even though we are physically here at this very moment, most of our thoughts drift far away to the distant past or the imagined future. Because of this, we’re losing connection with the present moment — with the important “NOW.”

Psychologists believe this is the reason why so many people feel like they’re trapped in the past or scared of the future. It’s also the reason why we may feel like days are so short, or that we’re always running out of time. What we fail to notice is these small moments that make up our memories — this is our life. It’s what happens now that should be your greatest concern. What happens now has the greatest impact on who you will be.

2. Don’t follow the herd; tread where your heart takes you.

The world needs more brave people who can stand up for their own decisions — people of principle and determination who are willing to dig in their heels because they know that it’s the right thing to do. People like Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and Nikola Tesla who stood up for their own beliefs and made great things happen.

We all lead different lives. Each one of us has his own desires and needs. To live fully and become the best version of ourselves, we must discover where our true passions lie. Follow your own path; work with your core purpose; be a ray of light in this otherwise blindingly dark world.

3. Acknowledge different forms of success.

In our money-driven society, it’s quite a common misconception to measure success by how much you make, how big your house, or how nice your car is. Money is important — no need to argue about it. However, there are other forms of success that prove more valuable. Success in relationships, health, and career are better source of happiness and fulfillment than financial wealth.

4. Learn how to use obstacles as compasses.

What stands in the way becomes the way. The things we call obstacles are not things we must “overcome.” These are things that will point us to the right direction; in other words, they are our pathways to success and fulfillment. Great things come before a turning point — people often encounter difficulties before they achieve success. The next time you have problems, try to see them as a compass, and use it to achieve what you want.

5. Aim for progress not perfection.

On the surface, both progress and perfection are good things; however, one of these two things breeds fear and undoing, while the other cultivates confidence and creativity. Can you guess which is which?

It’s simple. While aiming for perfection is really admirable, it’s not always good. Perfectionism can be paralyzing, and most of the time, it only leads to fear, avoidance, and undoing. Because you want to make something “perfect,” you fear for flaws, so you avoid doing the task because it creates so much stress — ultimately, it will make you abandon the work.

Progress on the other hand allows you to make mistakes; it emphasizes that there is no need for utmost perfection as long as you make progress every day. And this is really good. As you gain progress, you feel better, more confident, and more trustful of your skill — which leads to more happiness and fulfillment.