A meaningful life…
In our last blog we spoke about our fast paced, technology driven world and how it often feeds into our stress and anxiety. If hustle and bustle of modern life can lead to a sense of emptiness or disconnection, then what does ‘connection’ mean? How do we find meaning in our life?
Unpacking what a meaningful life means to you is not only different from person to person but is paramount in bringing a sense calmness and direction. It provides a framework in which we can understand our actions and choices, giving them significance beyond the immediate moment.
So, let’s ask ourselves some questions:
What’s important in my life?
What pisses me off in the world? Why?
What were some of the most meaningful moments in my life? Why?
In your eulogy what would I be most proud of in my life? Or, what would I like people to say about me at my funeral?
These questions can guide us to what we value in the world and provides direction that aligns with who we are. For example, if integrity or decency is important to you, yet you just had an event happen where you didn’t support the underdog or what you truly believed in, then slowly that will eat away at you. Or if family or creativity or having fun is something you truly value, yet you spend a lot of time working and living alone doing routine things, then you will start to lose your spark. Now I know this is stating the obvious, but I can guarantee you that most of us do not live aligned with our values. Why? Two reasons:
1. we don’t think about it on any deep level to unpack our blueprint, and
2. we are distracted by stress, bills, relationships, studies, work – and we get confused and lose sight of what is important.
When we have a clear sense of purpose, driven by our values, we’re more likely to feel motivated and engaged in what we’re doing. This can be incredibly valuable in a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming. Understanding what matters the most, equips us to handle challenges and build resilience.
So, let’s get started in this step-by-step process:
1. Take a few minutes to brainstorm what your values are and write down your top five – there is a list below to assist you, but try and do this without first looking at the list.
2. Now prioritise these values from 1-5.
3. Next to each value, write down what it means to you, and why it is important to you.
4. Write down any barriers that would prevent you from living a life aligned by these values? Awareness of these barriers can sometimes be enough to make a shift. Seek assistance if you require further solutions.
Enjoy the ride. Cultivating these aspects of life lead to greater fulfillment, resilience and clarity in the face of life’s challenges.
Appendix: Values list
Authenticity, Achievement, Adventure, Autonomy, Balance, Beauty, Boldness, Compassion, Challenge, Community, Competency, Contribution, Creativity, Curiosity, Determination, Fairness, Faith, Friendships, Fun, Growth, Happiness, Honesty, Humour, Influence, Inner Harmony, Justice, Kindness, Knowledge, Leadership, Learning, Love, Loyalty, Meaningful Work, Openness, Optimism, Peace, Pleasure, Popularity, Recognition, Religion, Reputation, Respect, Responsibility, Security, Self-Respect, Service, Spirituality, Stability, Success, Status, Trustworthiness, Wealth, Wisdom.
(this is not an exclusive list and values can change as life’s circumstances change)