We all crave a happy and fulfilling life but not many people ever attain it. At least entirely. And that’s the beauty of life; the ups and downs.
However, there are some truths, some may consider them to be harsh, that can help you to live a fulfilled life. It is not always going to be sunshine and roses but with these truths it’ll be easier for you to deal with whatever life may throw your way.
1. Not everyone is going to like you.
Life is not a popularity contest. You can be the best person to that special someone(s). You can give your time, money and sweat but that will not guarantee that you will be loved or liked. This is not to say you shouldn’t give your all in what you do. But recognize that you don’t need people’s love to validate your good intentions and actions.
2. You always have a choice.
Life is complex and sometimes it feels like you are pushed into a corner with no choice. However, you always have a choice. The consequences may not be favourable but you always have the power to either give in or give out. Accept this and the responsibility that comes with the actions of your choices.
3. People want you to do well, but not better than them.
I’ll bet you didn’t like the sound of that. Sad but true. A lot of people will encourage you in your endeavours as far as it doesn’t compromise theirs. It is only human to have such feelings and these feelings also apply to you. Be careful not to let these feelings lead you and acknowledge that this is a harsh truth of the world: people don’t want you to do better than them.
4. There is no such thing as a perfect time to do something.
In the words of the popular Nike motto: Just Do It. No, literally. Just do it. It can be hard to think about getting it done, let alone taking the step to get it done. But you cannot hope and wait for a perfect time because none of us are promised tomorrow. We think we are, but we really aren’t. Take that step. Ask that boy out. Start that business. Learn that new skill. Take that trip you’ve been meaning to take for years. Just do it.
5. Your expectations are what cause disappointment.
I know, I know. This is a hard pill to swallow but that’s exactly what happens. You imagine a rosey situation and a rosier outcome but end up with something not-so like you hoped. The disappointment gets to you. It makes you dejected and depressed. Well, that’s because you expected the best. And that is not a bad trait. Optimism is great, in moderation. As is pessimism. Find the balance. Expect the worst but hope for the best.
6. If you aren’t accountable, you will be held accountable.
You need to learn how to practice not only what you preach but also have values. Not skewed ideas of morality but values of honour, valour, integrity and respect for your fellow man. If you don’t learn to be accountable for your actions which may be antithetical to the aforementioned values, you will be held accountable. The end result for such situations is usually not a nice thing for all parties involved.
7. You live the life you create for yourself.
You cannot always complain about your life. One day you’ll wake up and you’re past your prime and still complaining. Life is tough and sometimes cruel, and some of that cruelty is institutionalised against you. But you choose to either let it break you, mould you or build you. Live your life in the best way you know how, without regard or harm for anyone else. Your life is a tapestry yet to be finished. You are the artist with the brush. It’s your choice to paint a masterpiece.
