essay on living life to the fullest

Life Potential

How to live life to the fullest and enjoy each day.

Have you ever felt like others don’t understand your pain when they seem to be living a happy life? You’re not alone in feeling this way, but the truth is that happiness takes work, and learning how to live life to the fullest takes dedication and practice.

People who smile in public have been through every bit as much as people who cry, frown, and scream. They just simply found the courage and strength to smile through it and enjoy life in the best way possible.

Life is short, and we only live once. Learning to live life to the fullest is an important step in making the most of every day. Here are 9 ways you can try.

1. Decide What’s Important to You

Whether it’s taking care of your children, working hard on your career, writing a new blog post each day, or baking up fabulous creations, you get to decide how you enjoy spending your time. Your parents, friends, community, and society in general all have their opinions, but at the end of the day, you’re the only person who will be around for every moment of your life.

Do what makes you happy, and everything else will fall into place. This may not mean finding your perfect job if you’re limited by education, location, or job openings. However, you can still do what you love by engaging in hobbies, volunteer work, or mentoring. 

2. Take More Risks

Sometimes there’s danger involved in life, but every reward carries risk with it. If you never take risks, you’ll never get anywhere in life, and you certainly won’t learn how to live life to the fullest.

Staying in your comfort zone is the fastest way to become discontent . Without stepping outside what you’re already comfortable with, you will cease to learn and stagnate in both your personal and professional life.

While it may feel uncomfortable, taking a risk can be as simple as saying yes next time your friends want to go out instead of staying at home alone. It can mean going out on a blind date, buying plane tickets to a new city, or dragging out those paints that have been stuffed away for years. 

When people look back on their lives, they regret the chances they didn’t take more than the ones they did, so find something new to try today and set goals beyond what you currently believe possible.

3. Show Your Love to People You Care About

Family and friends will always appreciate hearing that you love and appreciate them in everyday life. It will brighten a stranger’s day to hear a random compliment. If you like someone’s shirt, tell them. If you notice that they’re doing a great job not losing their temper while their kid screams in the supermarket, let them know. 

If you have a romantic interest in someone, just go for it. There are a lot of ways it may end, and only one of them keeps them in your life forever. In the end, you may look back and wish you had asked them out. 

4. Live in the Present Moment

Your past is important to learn from. Your future is important to work towards. At the end of the day, though, the only thing that exists outside of your head is the present .

In order to ground yourself in the now, you can practice mindfulness , which involves learning to live in the moment by noticing what’s around you, how you’re feeling, why you’re feeling that way, etc. Meditation can also help with this as it helps you get in touch with your thoughts and feelings. 

Gratitude is another amazing tool for living in the present [1] . Each day, practice gratitude by writing down three to five things you’re grateful for. You’ll be amazed and how quickly this helps place you in the moment and start to live life to the fullest. 

5. Ignore the Haters

No matter what you decide to do with your life, there will always be someone around to point out the many ways you’ll fail or what you’re doing wrong with each step you take. 

Know that every winner loses, but not every loser wins. Successful people don’t start out successful. What makes them successful is that they keep pushing through failure.

Next time you run into a hater, work on placing boundaries and practice self-love to build your self confidence and make it impenetrable to the outside forces trying to break it down. 

Take a look at these 10 Famous Failures to Success Stories That Will Inspire You to Carry On .

6. Don’t Compromise Your Values

If something doesn’t feel right, don’t do it. Don’t compromise on your internal code of ethics, as this will leave you feeling empty and full of regret. 

Life doesn’t work like a movie. It’s filled with gray areas. Trust your instincts , and do whatever you want so long as you can look yourself in the mirror with appreciation and love. 

7. Be Kind to Others

Every day, you’ll see someone who could use help. While you may not be at a place to help them financially, offering a smile or a kind word can do wonders to help someone feel better about where they’re at in life [2] . When others see you practicing kindness, they’ll also be more likely to do so, which can help everyone learn how to live life to the fullest. 

You can also try these Ways to Carry Out Random Acts of Kindness  in order to live life to the fullest.

8. Keep Your Mind Open

Having an open mind is important for your growth. Just because you’re right about something doesn’t mean there aren’t other ways to look at it.

Listening to ideas you don’t agree with or understand keeps your brain active and healthy. You’ll continue to learn as long as you stay open to difficult conversations. Don’t assume you know everything about another person, as they always have more to teach you. 

Here’re 5 Ways to Cultivate a Growth Mindset for Self Improvement .

9. Take Action for What Matters to You

You’ll hear people say, “I had that idea,” every time you see someone create something great. Everyone had the idea for Facebook first. The reason Mark Zuckerberg got rich off of it is because he went out and did it while everyone else was talking about it.

Ideas are useless if you don’t act on them. Less thinking, more doing . 

The Bottom Line

Learning to live life to the fullest is a big step in discovering a path that will lead you to your greatest sense of happiness and accomplishment. We all need moments to rest and relish in a sense of contentment, but staying in one place too long will leave you feeling a lack in life. Discover what makes your life feel meaningful and go after it. 

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Book Reviews

'i am' living life to the fullest, despite its perils.

Heller McAlpin

I Am, I Am, I Am

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About halfway through her first book of nonfiction, Edinburgh-based author Maggie O'Farrell explains her latest project to her mother: "I'm trying to write a life, told only through near-death experiences," she says. It's not exactly an autobiography, more like "snatches of a life. A string of moments."

Most of these dramatic moments will come as no surprise to her mother, who miraculously survived the various near-fatal accidents and illnesses of O'Farrell's hair-raising childhood along with her daughter. "You were," she says with a sigh, "a nightmare to rear" — contrary, wild, willful, intractable, rash. She adds, "If you have easy children there's no justice in the world." As readers of these often harrowing pages will discover, justice has been served.

I Am, I Am, I Am takes its title from what Sylvia Plath described in The Bell Jar as "the old brag of my heart. I am, I am, I am." O'Farrell's memoir is a frequently nerve-wracking read, particularly for cautious, apprehensive worst-case scenarists. Several chapters into it, with my heart beating Yikes, Yikes, Yikes after intense descriptions of a terrifying encounter with a man seething with ill-intent on a remote solo lakeside hike, an ill-advised night dive off a pier spurred by teenage bravado, and a plane losing altitude as rapidly as the dashed academic ambitions from which O'Farrell was fleeing, it occurred to me that this might be precisely the wrong book for me. And yet, it isn't. As its title suggests, its pounding pulse is ultimately life-affirming. It's an extraordinary book, a reminder that while life has its limits and can be unpredictable, we should push against limitations and not give in to fear.

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It is also, like O'Farrell's seven intricately constructed, blissfully absorbing novels, full of surprises. As in her fiction, including The Hand That First Held Mine and This Must Be the Place, moments of beauty ambush the reader as unexpectedly as malevolent predators. An intrepid adventurer, O'Farrell emerges from a lung-and-body-bashing riptide in the Indian Ocean with a heightened appreciation for her exotic experience: "The feeling of having pulled my head, one more time, out of the noose becomes intermingled with, indivisible from, the mimosa trees, the goats, the wave that turned me over, the toasted-resin smell of cinnamon bark," she writes. Her senses — and sentences — are vividly alive.

O'Farrell eschews chronology, instead dipping and swerving through time, as she does in her novels. By saving for last the seminal experiences that have most strongly shaped her past and present, she amplifies their impact. Unlike many of the common, not-so-near-misses enumerated in earlier chapters, these are unequivocally traumatic. "Cerebellum 1980" revisits her terrifying hospitalization with severe encephalitis at age eight, which she calls "the hinge on which my childhood swung." The illness left her with permanent damage, and she credits her mobility to the determined physiotherapists who ignored her doctors' bleak prognoses.

Her survival against all odds explains much of the risk-taking detailed in earlier chapters. "Coming so close to dying as a young child," O'Farrell writes, "only to resurface again into life, imbued in me for a long time a brand of recklessness, a cavalier or even crazed attitude to risk." She acknowledges that it could have gone the other way, adding, "It was not so much that I didn't value my existence but more that I had an insatiable desire to push myself to embrace all that it could offer." She had become, she says, "sanguine — perhaps to a fault — about death."

Such sanguinity does not extend to her three children, as we learn in a searing final chapter that opens with a mad race along Italian roads to find a hospital during one of her middle child's periodic anaphylactic attacks brought on by a life-threatening immunological disorder. O'Farrell's un-self-pitying ferocity recalls the heartache of Dawn Davies' powerful title essay in Mothers of Sparta, which chronicles the maternal grit required to raise her sociopathic, autistic son. O'Farrell describes the challenges such parents endure: "Your lives are conducted with a constant background hum of potential peril. You begin to experience the world differently ... You must always be tabulating and assessing risk."

Dedicated to her children, I Am, I Am, I Am is filled with lessons the rest of us would be wise to heed. Mortal threats are more common than we think, her book demonstrates, but you can't let them stop you from experiencing life to the fullest. "You need to expect the unexpected, to embrace it," she writes, adding, "the things in life which don't go to plan are usually more important, more formative, in the long run, than the things that do." O'Farrell is here to prove it. And so, she asserts movingly, is her daughter: "She is, she is, she is."

Live your Life to the Fullest

The majority of people are like drones, nowadays. It seems as if they are living their lives in a trance – numb sleepwalkers that do the same things day in and day out – while being stuck in various routines that have accumulated during the years. Routines that give them the sensation of stability in an unstable and ever-changing world. There is no variety other than the regularly changing television program, new computer and console games or the newest scandals of celebrities and politicians.  People have no time anymore to call their friends and to spend time with them, but waste hours of their valuable time online, on Facebook – checking status messages, addictively playing games, chatting with random strangers or watching videos on YouTube. You can hear people mumble, “ I’m in a rush ” or “ Haven’t got any time ” while they rush from their workplaces to their entertainment stations, called home.  People have mastered the skill of multi-tasking and can perform various tasks simultaneously, but they lack the ability to focus on only one thing at a time and wonder why they don’t get anything done or why they aren’t happy with the outcome of their multi-tasked work.

Yet, the state of being a numb sleepwalker can be very promising – after all, all you have to do is lean back and start drifting through life , which can be an exciting journey full of adventurous hours in front of the television or your video console. This is one possible way of life, but there will always be the remaining emptiness within yourself that you will not be able to fill – not with entertainment, not by accumulating riches, gathering tangibles or continuously changing partners. That’s the burden of being a sleepwalker – you won’t reach true fulfillment and consciousness; to put it simply: you aren’t able to fill the emptiness within yourself.

Part I: The Active Mind

Start living your life now.

The sleepwalkers I was talking about in the above certainly do fulfill their specific needs for nutrition, security, love, happiness and entertainment, but are they really living their lives – actively and consciously – or are they still dreaming and behaving on auto-pilot? Let’s look at it this way… I’m sure you have heard about the people who had a near-death experience and reported about the phenomenon that they saw their whole lives flashing before their inner eyes, just like a movie. The film that was flashing before their eyes contained all the emotional and exciting moments they had experienced throughout their lives. The only question is: do you really want to see yourself sitting in front of a TV or a computer when “watching the movie of your life”? Watching yourself observing something else, when the “director” zooms into the best moments of your entire life? I certainly don’t! I’d rather prefer to see myself really living my life – not observing the fictional life on the TV screen or playing a fictional role in whatever game.

The courage to live your life to the fullest

All it takes to live your life to the fullest is courage – nothing more and nothing less . This sounds rather minimalist and easy to cope with – but a lack of courage is a key factor that prevents most people from living their lives to the fullest. These people aren’t necessarily cowards or scared-chicken – not at all – as they are simply being stuck with their quite comfortable everyday routines. To express it metaphorically: t here are some dreams that you do not want to end . Courage is a crucial factor – as you cannot live your life to the fullest if you don’t dare to do it or shy the risks that could come with it.

Listening to your heart

The following can be observed ever since in the history of mankind, so it isn’t just a recent trend: young people choose – influenced by the advice from their parents (or friends) – to walk the predetermined path that was selected for their lives – a path that might have been chosen by their parents or dictated by the society they live in – often before they were born . Some others pursue the smell of banknotes and follow where the desire to accumulate as much money and tangibles as possible will lead them. There are many other examples where people make important decisions for their lives solely based on external factors – some earn a living with jobs they absolutely dislike and hate, jobs that might even interfere with their beliefs, others become lawyers just because their whole family consisted of lawyers for decades. The mistake we make is that we put way too much emphasis on the importance of external factors – such as money, family tradition, and honor, etc. – rather than listening to our hearts and following where it leads us.

You don’t necessarily have to break with your family tradition when you follow your heart, absolutely not ! But there is a huge difference in between the choice to become a firefighter “because my dad, my grandfather, and my great grandfather were fireman as well” or to choose to become a firefighter as it is your true desire and you dreamt of it ever since you were a little child that wanted to help others that are in danger.

Listen to your heart when you make important decisions and try to neglect the promising external factors ( money, etc. ) just for a moment. Have the courage to follow where your heart leads you! Become aware of the things that your heart desires and ask yourself the question if you really think that your heart might desire something as superficial and material as money, fancy cars and jewelry. When looking behind the scenes you might discover that it isn’t tangibles that your heart truly desires, but – more valuable things such as – true friendship , happiness , love , but also fulfillment , consciousness , awareness and inner peace with yourself .

Part II: The Importance of Responsibility

Reconciling and accepting the past.

Nearly all of our thoughts, questions, and worries revolve around events and situations in the past or the upcoming future. The closer you look at it, the more will you realize that only a slight percentage of our thoughts revolve around the present. If you so want, “ thinking in the present ” is an oxymoron in itself, as the line between past, present and future are continuously shifting, which makes it nearly impossible to continuously think about this very moment. Therefore, nearly all human beings are either very focused on the future and the changes that will come along with it or clearly living in the past full of regret about the drastic changes in the nowadays world, (overlapping does exist as well, of course).

Make the most of your life and live it to the fullest

Nevertheless, worrying about the future or struggling with the past – no matter what happened – can be a huge obstacle when it comes to the ambition to live your life in this very moment to the fullest , which might even prevent you from doing so. Accept the past as that what it is, bygone and not changeable. Spending a single second with regret about your past will take you the chance to enjoy this moment, in this second and so on. If you so want, worrying about the past could be seen as a vicious circle; it does not only take you the chance in this very moment to change whatever you dislike, but it also supplies you with another pretty good reason to struggle in the prospective future, aka “Why didn’t I do anything about it when I could?”, etc.

As you can see – worrying about the past and the future can be a vicious circle that occupies your mind with thoughts and situations that aren’t related to this present situation, which finally prevents you from living life to the fullest. The key to success lies in the acceptance of what happened and the reconciliation with the past, the opportunities you’ve missed and with whatever you regret. The realization that the only way to change anything in life is to take action now, in this very moment, will further help you to reconcile with your past. Living your life to the fullest, in this very moment, cannot be accomplished when mentally living in the past and continuously visualizing all the golden opportunities you’ve missed throughout your life.

Don’t pass the buck

The second part of this article was named “ the importance of responsibility ”, as I believe that it takes a lot of courage but also the willingness to take responsibility to accept what happened in the past and to reconcile with it. After all, it is by far easier to blame other people for your own mistakes and to make specific external influences accountable for the development of your life, rather than acknowledging that it might have been your own fault and seeking the reasons within yourself.

Doing so will take a lot of pressure from your shoulders, it might even be a very good feeling to know that you’re not guilty for negative developments in your life as you can always blame others for it, but it will also let you become a helpless victim. Being a victim does not only make you vulnerable, but it also takes you the last chance to change anything about your current situation – as you clearly do not see yourself as the sole reason for a negative trend, but the victim of it. Accusations will redirect your focus ( from doing something about it or making the best of it ) towards the problem that might lie many years in the past and can neither be changed nor undone. Taking responsibility for your past and reconciling with it will allow you to gain back the power over your life, which helps you to accept the past, forgive others and to wipe the slate clean, but most important of all: you will start focusing on the present and live in this moment. Make yourself clear that the one who lives in the past and the one who regrets misses the chance – in this moment – to make the best of it, to change it or to start all over again.

Accept the past, let the bygone be bygone and make the best out of your situation. In the end, it depends on you, if you decide to continue to whine about the past, or to make the best of it now so that you can look back one day with a smile on your face and recognize that everything has come to a good end.

Part III: The Reflective Mind

Dare to be conscious.

Living your life to the fullest consists out of three elements that complete each other – the active part (= taking action ), the responsibility part (= taking responsibility for the past ) and finally, the reflective part – the Ying and the Yang of living your life to the fullest, if you so want and the sphere that surrounds it. Living your life to the fullest does not only consist of taking action or accepting the past but also to live your life in a conscious state of mind, where you invest some time for yourself, to reflect and to think about your life in general . It doesn’t necessarily have to be a restriction, you do not need to stop watching TV or to reduce your internet usage drastically , but it includes your willingness to spend some time with yourself (without distractions), every day.

Pure honesty towards yourself and your life

Whenever you have taken yourself some time to reflect on your life, it is essential that you are completely honest towards yourself. Ask yourself the question, if you are living – in this moment – the life you have always dreamt of, the life you envisioned as a little child, the dream that has evolved throughout your whole life and became more and more detailed with every day you were alive. Ask yourself if you are happy with your personality, your job and the way you live in general. Are you the creator of your life, do you take control over your life, are responsible for your actions or have you switched to your role as a victim and the one who only reacts towards other people’s actions? Are you living your life with excitement and amazement, curious to discover the deepest depths of life, or do you rely on television to stimulate and entertain you for a given period? Is your life a routine or a daily changing adventure?

All day long, we’re in a rush after all the things we believe are important for us. But, let’s face it… nothing is really important other than this very moment if we make use of it and enjoy it or not.

We spend too much time living in the “what if” and need to learn to live in the “what is.” ~ Rev. Leroy Allison

Live your Life to the Fullest was brought to you by our Conscious Living Blog. What are your tricks for living life to the fullest?

About Author

Steve is the founder of Planet of Success , the #1 choice when it comes to motivation, self-growth and empowerment. This world does not need followers. What it needs is people who stand in their own sovereignty. Join us in the quest to live life to the fullest!

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Great post! Everything you’ve said is so very true. Too many of us unfortunately do not know what it means to live life to the fullest. We go about our lives thinking we’re happy, when deep down inside, we know that isn’t the truth.

As you say, it takes courage to live life to the fullest and proclaim that you are going to be truly happy. Hopefully more people begin to realize that a happy life is within reach of us all.

Thanks for the inspiration!

You’re welcome! I’m glad you like it!

your article about the live life to the fullest is really nice and your all points about The Active Mind, The Importance of Responsibility and The Reflective Mind is very informative,, thanks for it…

live to the fullest

live in the fullest life,it;s a hard thing to reach, but we really need to do more meaningful things,we spend so many time on TV,computer,games,etc. Life is short.

You’re so right, Wendy! And exactly those three things make us waste a lot of time, instead of really making something out of it!

Hello Steve,I can feel the energy you bring along in this book.I just read the first chapter morning and thought,I don’t need to rush through it …. Let me enjoy this easy to read and energetic script.

hi sir i am student i have a problem, oh! sorry when i reed your articles i should not have negative thoughts ,so let me say not a problem but i would like to call it as ….. I my self have a desire to study at night . so please i need your guidance for making it work for me : if you can sagest me something in what i wanted mail me THANK YOU

Hi Gayathri,

first of all, if you do not want to call something a problem, just call it a challenge instead! That changes your perspective by 360 degree.

Now to your problem. If you want to study at night then by all means do it! Study as long as you want in the night. If you have this desire than pursue it. However, there will be a point where you notice how imbalanced you get when studying at night, i.e. sleepiness during school, fatigue and a lack of concentration. Once you notice these “side-effects” the desire of studying at night might alleviate so that you will become more open to traditional approaches towards studying: during the day and in the evening.

360 degrees? Steve,I sure hope that you were very tired when you wrote this….

You got me.

Thanks for this article – so glad there are likeminded people out there who want to live their lives but sadly only a few have the courage to do so or realise that there is no “comfort zone” and yes the world is an ever changing place. life just has so much to give but only a spare few see it. Thanks for this awesome article again makes my heart smile

Hi Helen, you’re welcome! I’m glad that the article inspired you and made your heart smile!

Hi Steve! A very useful article. From my personal experience i have found out that i spend my whole day making money and i m so much involved in it that i hardly find any time to spend with myself. Your article really enlightened me how i can live life to the maximum. I personally liked your view on active mind. I am sure this article will prove an life changer to my life.

I also watched a video recently that cleared lots of doubts in my mind regarding life and i would like to share it with you.

Thank you once again for such a beautiful article.

Hi Steve. Most of the stuff that you write about deeply resonate within me, as I can see lots of parallels with my own path, but I don’t see why anybody should force themselves to live their lives ‘to the full’ as if there was some sort of Shangri-la they never realized it was there. While I totally agree that we have to strive to go beyond our present limitations, that, in my opinion, is a constructed belief, because the reality of most people’s lives can’t be in other mode than that of auto-pilot. Consider the 9 to 5 worker, the single man or woman, or the mum or dad, who rushes throughout the day to accomplish the things they need in order to simply get things done. The only satisfaction that they expect at the end of the day is that they did it the best they could. There are 24 hours in a day, and we hardly have more than 8 or 10 (more if you deprive your need of sleep) to accomplish the things that are necessary to sustain our lives. So, how much time we have left to live our lives to the full?

In my experience, happiness is not to be found only in some dreamed world where we have transcended the quotidian and became somehow enlightened, but also in contentment and the acceptance of our quotidian limitations. If that implies that we have barely the time to play a video game in our free time, or watch TV, I’d say screw the after-life screenshots, because life is made also of those nondescript moments, and loving them is our job.

You’re absolutely correct. I wrote this article 3 or four years ago. And when reflecting what you have said I see that the article addresses one aspect, but leaves open many others. In the end, I believe that we all have to define for ourselves what it means to us to live a happy life. And for some a happy life is list to the fullest, which can also mean a life full of extremes, positive and negative experiences. To others a simple and modest life is sufficient enough.

Your last sentence is pure genius. I totally agree.

This was a very inspiring parahgh, it made me cri

Thanks for your heartwarming feedback.

Today I have learnt something new or I could say what I once learnt now is instilled in my mind to live in the moment.I will not stop blaming my family, friends for my misfortunes in life I rather live for the moment.I just wish that I will have the courage to accept my past not worry about the future but live for the moment.

Hi Steve! I read your article “Live your Life to the Fullest” thank-you very much it inspired me a lot . I really don’t want to see myself sitting in front of a TV or a computer when “watching the movie of my life” and I used to be “the one who live life to the fullest” but when and how , I was lost and finding happiness in this so called source of entertainment but actually even these stuffs (T.V, computer etc ) are just helping me to pass my days not helping me to enjoy the days ,enjoy the life which I wan to . After reading your article I realised what actually I want , what is dream. I want to live life as bird not lured by any cage and probably I guess for that I have work toward my goal , think positive, accept all challenges and enjoy present. Moreover really happiness is not watching T.V or chatting its accepting challenges ,struggling and then achieving . Thank-you for such a inspiring article.

You’re very welcome Neha! I absolutely agree with everything you’ve said in your comment. And I’m glad that you have the courage to live life as a bird and without being lured away by any cage.

what a great inspiration! thanks.

What is this emptiness within us that our lives are spent searching to fill? Is it created purely by our constant thoughts of comparison and measurement and nothing else? Is there a summit that is reached where it is obvious that our life is finally good. Or is this simply another game of thoughts.

Steve, I love that the article points out the lack of courage in our lives and that being stuck and comfortable works for many. This is so true. Yet, all these positive ways to live that are mentioned that are extraordinary, I have tried. These practices still leave thinking about our life all day long securely in place. Thinking about the “me” is the crux of suffering.

What is thinking? Why is thinking about ourselves at the center of everyone’s life? To transform the identity that we have accumulated in our thoughts to a new and improved version, still leaves the identity of what we are as thoughts. Instead of working to improve our identity through thought, why not see what the symbol that thoughts have created as the “me”, really is.

Personally, surrendering to God has helped filling the emptiness inside. It can have quite a wonderful impact upon your life.

This is an incredibly great article. You are right that we always live in the past or in the future. We usually think too much and can not relax in the here and now. Thanks for the nice post – which reminds you once again to be mindful and to enjoy the present moment. Best regards!

This is awesome information! Very enlightening!

This is great and awesome inspiring parahgh. Thanks

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12 Ways to Live Life to the Fullest

Feel like you’re lacking a life purpose? Here’s how to get out of that rut—and start finding more fulfillment.

We have all heard that we should live life to its fullest. But how do you do that? Especially when some days it feels like your to-do list is a mile long and you can't get off the hamster wheel long enough to look around and enjoy. Even if you start fun projects, it can feel impossible to finish them, and you end up with abandoned home improvement projects, countless jigsaw puzzles that are half done, or new hobbies that have been started and ignored. If you think about it, these things can add enjoyment, but they don't speak to your soul—and living a full life is all about connecting to your deep-down self.

So we spoke to wellness experts, therapists, and doctors, each of whom gave advice on what it means to live a fuller life—and tips on how to actually make it stick!

Listen to your inner being.

“Learn to trust and listen to that spirit inside of you that wants nothing more than to direct you closer to the person you are meant to be and the life you are meant to live,” says Kamilah Martin , a nonprofit executive turned consultant focused on empowering Black women through community. “Accepting, even celebrating, the discoveries that show up” is her advice for anyone looking to live a fuller life.

Understand the power of authenticity.

“Being your true, authentic self ...allows you to follow your passion,” says Jason Phillips , a licensed therapist. Authenticity is about being true to one's own personality, spirit, or character. “When we don't accept who we are," he continues, "we live life—but it's not to the fullest because we're operating from someone else's perspective and doing what someone else wants us to do.”

"Living life to its fullest means not holding back, having the courage to live the life that is truest and most authentic to each of us—and not the life that is expected of us by others or society,” says Tammie Chang , MD, a board-certified physician and author of the book Boundaries For Women Physicians , which focuses on self-care and avoiding burnout.

Get rid of the “supposed tos.”

“My life for many years was dictated by the ‘supposed tos,’” Martin says. “This is the career I'm supposed to have, the marriage and family I'm supposed to have. This is the way I'm supposed to carry myself. This is how I'm supposed to speak, look, behave.” But when you clear all that away, you’re left with the person you truly want to be. “The joy and fulfillment comes in the journey of releasing and in the confidence of trusting yourself,” she says.

Discover helpful techniques.

Phillips employs what he calls the three A’s: awareness, accountability, and action. “First, have awareness that [you’re] not happy with where [you are]…and want to change something,” he says. “That can come through conversations or an event in your life.” Second, accountability is about being in the driver’s seat. “Take control of this narrative,” Phillips says. “Feel like [you] can control [your] life.” Third, make the change. “Maybe that’s going to therapy. Maybe that’s developing yourself personally. [It’s] whatever you need to do...so that you can now take action and control your life.”

Visualize your future self.

At the Co-Active Training Institute , Chang learned a technique called future self visualization. “[It] takes us to meet ourselves 20 years into the future, and to gain the wisdom of our own older, experienced, and wiser inner selves,” she explains. “Some of the greatest wisdom we have is right there inside of ourselves. Just like getting to know yourself and leaning into your authenticity, letting your inner voice guide you is a way to achieve a fuller life. “The experience empowers us to live in a way that is more full, more in alignment with who we really are, and to give ourselves permission to let go of the ‘shoulds’ in our lives."

Define your core values.

“So many of us struggle to find our meaning, purpose, and anchor in life,” Chang says. Her solution? Uncovering the three to five core values that make you tick. This might seem easier said than done, but Chang has a few questions that can help you explore. “What would you take a stand for? What makes you mad—like mad —and why is that? What are the peak moments of your life until today? What are the common threads between these moments or experiences?” For Phillips, identifying those values is crucial, too, whether it’s gaining financial security or finding a sense of spirituality. “Once you define your values, you can look at your behavior and notice [if] your value is in alignment with your behavior,” he says. “If there's a disconnect, you now have a starting point of where to remedy as opposed to feeling lost and stuck.”

Let beliefs lead to passions.

Once you’ve defined your core principles, you can follow that path to finding things you’re passionate about—in turn, filling your days with what you enjoy. “When we do the things we're passionate about, we can wake up looking forward to the day,” Phillips says. For Martin, that was learning photography recently. “That gift has blossomed into some incredibly beautiful opportunities,” she says. “Leaning into this hobby and passion has brought so much unexpected joy and fulfillment.”

Help someone.

One possible thing to feel passionate about: . “We are wired to experience joy in the serving and helping of others ,” Chang says. “It’s the most natural form of experiencing an emotional high.” Giving back can come in a variety of forms, from volunteering your time to donating money. Whatever it is, the cause you choose to support should align with those values you defined earlier.

Strengthen your inner circle.

Adding more fulfillment to your life might also mean seeking out connections with those around you. “ Finding your people , the ones who cheer you on and lift you up on a soul-level, is life's work,” Martin says. “Your community is going to be one of the biggest factors to propel you and your dreams forward—or hold you back.” That means you should always be on the lookout for ways to improve your circle, even if it means making a change when that community is no longer serving you. “The older I get, the more important it is for me to really surround myself with the people and energies that bring me growth, safety, and pure joy and peace,” Martin adds.

Seek peace, not happiness.

“Chasing happiness can actually lead to misery,” Martin says. Phillips agrees: “Sometimes we may not be happy on the journey to actually becoming who we are or becoming who we want to be.” A fuller life doesn’t necessarily mean being happy all the time—rather, it’s about being in touch with your inner self and deciding what you need in that moment. Martin suggests letting the happiness come to you instead of doggedly searching for it. “Listen to what life is putting in front of you and lean into the surprising things that bring you true peace,” she says.

Feel all the feelings.

“We are human beings, designed to experience the full range of emotions—good, bad, ugly, scary, and wonderful,” Chang explains. “The deeper we can feel into our daily experience, the more fully we are living in integrity.” She cautions against “dulling our emotions” with mindless activities or substances, because even though they might help numb some of the less pleasant feelings, they ultimately will not lead to personal fulfillment.

Hold no regrets.

"When you come to the end of your life, what is it that will have meant the most to you? To your loved ones? To those you’ve never even met?" says Chang. "Know that you have an impact on countless others throughout your lifetime, and that the ripple effects of you, your being, and your impact, is there. You matter. Make your life on this Earth count. Don’t just go through the motions. What will your life have been all about when you come to the end of yours?"

Cassie Hurwitz (she/her) is an associate editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers everything from culture to entertainment to lifestyle. She can typically be found in the middle of multiple books and TV shows all at once. Previously, Cassie worked at Parents , Rachael Ray In Season , and Reveal. Her love language is pizza (New York slices, Chicago deep dish, and otherwise). 

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Living Life to the Fullest

Home › 27 Ways To Live Life To The Fullest

27 Ways To Live Life To The Fullest

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Do you want to know how to live life to the fullest? If so, you’re far from alone. The sad thing is that most people go through life having never really experienced what  life  has to offer.

Do you feel like you’re “sleep-walking” through life? Do you wish you had more freedom? Do you wish you had more adventure? Do you wish you had  more time ? Do you wish you had  more love ? Do you dread Monday mornings?

When you live life to the fullest, you are thriving, prospering, and enjoying yourself. You are content, happy, satisfied, having fun, savoring life, and blossoming. You delight in what you do in life.

You need to understand that everything holding you to a life you don’t want to live is a prison created by your mind.

That doesn’t mean you can just wish yourself into a new life, but it does mean that you can actively work towards living life to the fullest.

Page Contents

What Does it Mean to Live Life to the Fullest?

There can be multiple answers to the question of what it means to live life to the fullest. It is different for everyone. For some, it may mean traveling the world; for others, it might mean spending more time with those they love or a little thing like just enjoying what you are doing.

Many studies over the years have shown that these feelings about life can contribute to a greater overall sense of well-being, especially when it comes to developing relationships with yourself, those around you, and your community.

Love and joy can often overshadow feelings of anger, shame, and sadness. Living life to the fullest just may be pivotal for our happiness.

In this article, you’ll find ideas you can put into practice to make your life better. Some of these ideas you’ll have heard before, and some of them you’ll dismiss.

You’ll be able to put some of these ideas into practice right away, and some of these might plant the seed for ideas you’ll put into practice in the future. Still others you’ll spend your life working towards. Either way, here’s our list of positive steps to start taking now.

1. Create a Bucket List and Start Doing More

You will die one day, but before you do, experience as much of this world as possible. A bucket list is simply a list of experiences or achievements you hope to accomplish during your life. They are things you haven’t previously done, but you want to cross off your list before dying. They don’t have to be big things. They can be small, simple things you may have been putting off.

A bucket list is a great way to create new and lasting memories and gives you a sense of accomplishment as you start crossing one thing off after another. It is a to-do list you can use to inspire others to live their lives to the fullest also.

A bucket list also forces you to take a good look at your life and where you are. What are your dreams and aspirations? Use your bucket list as motivation and inspiration to start living the life you always wanted.

Examples of Bucket List Items

Ready to write out your own bucket list and start on your journey of trying new things in life? Here are a few examples taken from others as they created their own. Pull some inspiration from these and step out of your comfort zone:

• Learn to play a new game
• Run a marathon
• Go bungee jumping or sky diving
• Travel overseas
• Set a Guinness World Record
• Live, study, or work abroad
• Go on a road trip across the US
• Fly in a hot air balloon
• See the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)
• Learn how to surf

2. Set Goals and Write Them Down

Set goals  by month, year, 5-year, and 10-year periods. You can even just start by setting a goal for tomorrow! Know what you want to achieve for each stretch of your life, and make sure to look back and see if you actually made the progress you wanted.

This list will constantly evolve, and you won’t reach every one of your goals, but writing your goals down will make it more likely that you will achieve them.

3. Live Life Your Own Way

Don’t choose your path in life based on the expectations set on you by others, whether it’s your parents, friends, family member, or society in general.

Don’t let others choose your path for you, but don’t choose a path that will hurt those around you. It’s easy to get caught up in your own life, but if you don’t care for those you love, what is it all for in the end?

Examples of living life your own way:

• Pay your bills on time and save money
• Get comfortable being alone
• Accept responsibility
• Accept help when it is needed
• Build a budget and live independently
• Set clearly defined goals

Find out what matters to you most and eliminate your inner critic. You are responsible for your own happiness.

4. Maintain an Internal Locus of Control

There are two kinds of people, those who focus on what they can control and those that focus on what they can’t. Don’t blame others for your own failure – there’s always someone out there who was dealt a worst hand that made more of it than you did.

5. Don’t Complain or Get Jealous

If you’re unhappy with something in your life, you can complain about it or actively work to change it. Which one will you choose?

When living life to the fullest, try nourishing a positive attitude. To do this, you need to change the way you think sometimes. Be more mindful and assertive and less judgmental of yourself and others.

You also shouldn’t be jealous. Not because it’s morally wrong, but because  jealousy is a destructive emotion . It’s also a symptom that you’re not living your life to the fullest – people who are fulfilled can celebrate other people’s success. People who aren’t fulfilled fill up their emotional void through negative emotions.

Let’s look at some examples of how to be more positive toward yourself. 

Don’t Be A Crab in The Bucket

You’ve heard the expression “ crabs in the bucket ” – it’s the tendency crabs have to pull other crabs back down right when they’re about to climb out. When you break from the norm, you’ll get pushback from your loved ones. It’s not jealousy – they genuinely care for us.

But people living the life society tells them to live get scared when they see others going for it. Even if they do it subconsciously, and even if it’s out of genuine concern – it’s still harmful. It creates a culture of conformity, mediocrity, and quiet desperation. Don’t be a crab in the bucket.

Understand That It’s Okay to Fail

The only way to avoid failure is to not try anything. Don’t be afraid to fail…that’s how you succeed. Besides, it’s only really a failure if you stop trying. You can overcome the fear of failure by visualizing the worst-case scenario.

A great way to overcome a fear of failure is to confront your worst possible nightmare. If you try it and fail, what is the worst thing that will happen? Write it down, then write down what it would take to get back to where you are now.

Most of the time, you’ll find that the worst-case scenario isn’t nearly as scary as you thought it would be, and your own mindset is the only thing holding you back.

6. Ignore the things you can’t change

Ever notice how insanely emotional YouTube comments are? People cling to their opinions like they’re a lifeline. Yet these are almost always opinions about things that have absolutely no effect on their daily lives. Yes, bad things are going on in the world. Unless you plan to do something about them, only focus on the things you can change in your own life.

You can make a difference – once you stop dismissing yourself. Approach challenges with the mindset of “how am I going to accomplish this?” instead of “what can I possibly do?”. But if you’re not going to work to change something, see the point above. Time to put up or shut up.

We all have things in our lives, whether it’s our circumstances or personal flaws holding us back from doing things we truly want to do. You can either accept it, rationalize it away, or face your fears. Which one will you choose? Here are some examples to help put this in perspective:

Take Care of Your Body

Eat healthy when you can, get a good night’s sleep, and exercise. Your only connection with this world is through this fleshy meat vehicle we call our bodies. Take good care of it.

Take Care of Your Mind

Stop feeding it a constant stream of junk. A little downtime is alright, but don’t dedicate every free hour you have watching reality TV, watching gossip blogs, checking sports scores, and doing other stuff that requires little mental energy. Even the news can rot your brain with its constant barrage of negativity and biased sensationalism.

Improve Your Body Language

Did you know that your posture and body language not only shapes how people see you but also shape how you feel about yourself?  Improving your body language  is a great starting point you can do anytime and can alter the way you see yourself and are seen by others.

7. Be Conscious in the Present

We all get into ruts and routines to get through the day, but we only have a limited number of days on this earth. Don’t put life on auto-pilot – live consciously. Always ask yourself – why am I doing this? If you wake up too many mornings in a row without a good answer, then it’s time to make a change.

Improve Your Social Skills

Some people are natural social butterflies. For those of us who aren’t, make an effort to improve your social skills. There’s nothing wrong with being an introvert and enjoying time alone but don’t poor social skills hold you back when you need them. Improving your social skills will also help you in whatever line of work or business you choose.

Do Work You Love

Not everyone gets to play football or in a rock band for a living, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find something you love waking up in the morning for. Keep looking for it, and don’t give up until you find it. Life is too short to fear Sunday evenings.

Follow Your Effort

One of  Mark Cuban’s  keys to success is to follow your effort, not your passion. If you don’t have a passion for anything in particular, pick something and do it as best you can. Passion often comes from doing something well.

If you haven’t discovered what you’re passionate about, read more about the Key To Finding Your Passion .

8. Prepare to win but remember you don’t always have to win

Another of Mark Cuban’s keys to success is that everyone has the desire to win, but very few are willing to do the work to prepare to win. If you care about winning, do the work.

On the other hand, life isn’t always about winning.

No matter how strong you are, no matter how rich, no matter how beautiful, no matter how smart, no matter how talented, no matter how loveable, there will always be someone better than you. Ultimately, we all end up in the same place – wherever that place may be.

9. Don’t Confuse Pleasure with Happiness

Pleasure comes from the quick fixes that give us joy – shopping, alcohol, sex, listening to great music, and seeing great beauty.

Happiness comes from self-actualization and meaning. Pleasure is important to a happy life, but pleasure alone is insufficient.

10. Find Time for What You Want to Do

Many of us constantly complain about not having enough time or being too busy to do things we want to do/accomplish. We need to realize that we’re putting ourselves in those situations in the first place.

If you feel trapped in a job, are you actively taking steps to extricate yourself from the situation? If you are, then you shouldn’t waste time complaining. If you’re not, what are you complaining about?

11. Don’t Chase Money for It’s Own Sake

Having money is important in life, but only because it gives us the freedom to chase what we really want in life. You only get one life, and money is no good when you’re 6 feet in the ground.

12. Overcome Laziness

Do you have big goals and dreams? Do you stop short of taking steps to make changes because you’d rather watch TV? Do you quit after a few tries?

A little procrastination here and there is natural, but if you look back year after year and don’t see any changes, you probably need to work on overcoming your laziness.

13. Analyze Your Weaknesses

One of the hardest things for people to do is to be objective regarding their weaknesses. We’re naturally inclined to rationalize away things we’re not good at or believe that we’re better than we are.

Once you recognize your weaknesses and understand how they’re holding you back, you can take active steps to work on yourself.If you’re not doing something to improve yourself every day, then you’re not going to reach your goals.

14. Understand Personality Traits Aren’t Static

While we all might have some natural inclinations and gifts based on genetics and the environment we were raised, everything is changeable.

If aspects of your personality are holding you back, whether it’s laziness, social awkwardness, or mediocre intelligence, know that these are all things that can be improved if you’re willing to work on them instead of accepting them as immutable personality traits.

15. Surround Yourself with The Right People

There’s a saying that you’re the average of your five closest friends. While this may not be a scientific fact, it’s a useful thought exercise. You’ll also become negative if you constantly spend time with negative people.

If you spend time around people with no ambition, you’ll find your own dreams slipping away as well. On the other hand, surrounding yourself with awesome people who want the same things you want in life will set you up for success.

16. Design Your Ideal Life

It’s easy to go through life on autopilot if you don’t know what you want. Your first step is to figure out what you want from life. Read The 4-Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss if you want a great framework for accomplishing this.

17. Plan to Attain Your Ideal Life

Nothing will be handed to you. If you wait around to “find your direction” in life, you’ll find yourself on track for your exciting career at MegaCorp, moving paper from one account to another.

There’s no good reason to wander aimlessly through life once you’re out of college. If you need more direction after school, start laying a foundation for your future by bettering yourself i your spare time.

18. Stop Giving Up

Have you ever heard the story (urban myth?) of the man who was lost in the desert? He was found half a mile from a large oasis city. The point of this story is to illustrate the danger of quitting.

Things are always hard until they get better, but you’ll never know how close you came to achieving your goals if you quit before seeing them all the way through.

19. Move Past Negativity

Constructive criticism is one thing but know that if you’re out there trying to accomplish great things, you will attract haters who want to criticize for the sake of criticism. You’ll find haters frequently trolling message boards and YouTube comments.

Don’t take their comments personally, and don’t get sucked into flame wars. Instead, find a positive attitude about things and move on quickly from negativity. While it can be hard not to dwell on negative things, it can affect your outlook and bring you down. This stops you from enjoying life.

20. Accept Constructive Criticism

At the same time, haters can be good because sometimes they can be right. Haters show us our weaknesses. You’ll likely recognize legitimate criticisms when you feel the sting of cognitive dissonance – you want to dismiss the thought because it comes from someone critical of you, but you can’t help but shake that pit in your stomach.

Instead of burying that feeling, accept that you might be in the wrong, and work to improve yourself, so you don’t make the same mistake in the future.

21. Be The Hero of Your Own Movie

Does life feel tedious, joyless, and hopeless? Do you feel stuck in a rut with no way out? You already know how to get out – be the hero of your own movie. Pretend you’re the hero character in a Hollywood blockbuster.

There’s a point in every movie where the hero is down and out, with seemingly no way out, yet he always finds a way to overcome the odds.

Pretend you’re that hero, you’re in a tough spot, and it’s your job now to overcome the odds and come out on top – because it’s in the script. Pretend there’s a documentary crew following you around, and your kids will see what you’ve been doing one day.

Do you want them to see a hero who overcomes the odds or a loser who plays the victim? Last time I checked, the hero doesn’t overcome the odds by watching TV 5 hours a day. Do what needs to be done, no matter how hard it is.

22. Take Time to Enjoy Yourself

Incredible food, great company, and engrossing conversation – it doesn’t get much better than that, at least not in this lifetime. Cherish those moments of bliss and make them happen as frequently as possible.

It’s easy to pass on social occasions or family holidays, but these times are when some of our best memories are made.

23. Get Free of Preconceived Ideas

Kamilah Martin is a nonprofit executive who became a consultant focused on empowering black women through community. Martin admits that her life was taken over by her “supposed to’s” for many years.

Martin said there was a way she was supposed to carry herself. There was a way she was supposed to speak. However, she says, “The joy and fulfillment come in the journey of releasing and in the confidence of trusting yourself.”

24. Find Helpful Techniques to Use

Awareness, accountability, and action are the three A’s in life. You must figure out and become aware of your unhappiness and decide you are ready to change things. Accountability comes down to taking control over your life and what you are doing to change it, and then comes the change itself.

Take the time to develop yourself and visualize what you want in your life. Here are a few examples of how you can develop yourself:

Practice Mindfulness

When you practice mindfulness , use all five senses. Bring your attention to the present moment, focus on your breath, and observe your thoughts. When you practice mindfulness, you can also practice active listening, which is another way to help someone else while also helping yourself.

When you practice meditation, you can achieve a sense of calm and peace, and it helps you find balance in your life that is positive for your mental health and overall well-being.

It can be a relaxing technique to cope with stress or anxiety in your daily life that may inhibit you from living life to the fullest. Ten minutes a day of meditation should do it. Find a quiet place to reflect and focus on yourself.

One way to be in the present moment is through practicing mindfulness and meditation. It allows one the opportunity to notice surroundings, focus on just one thing at a time, and practice gratitude. Accept things as they are instead of how you want them to be.

Realize that material possessions aren’t the most important

25. Help Someone Else

Living life to the fullest doesn’t mean everything has to be about you personally. Find someone you can help out. We experience joy when helping others, which can give us an emotional high.

To do this, volunteer your time for a cause you are passionate about, and donate money or items. Any support you provide someone else should support your values and bring you happiness.

26. Remember that Life Is Finite

Steve Jobs talked about this in his famous commencement speech at Stanford in 2005. “Do we live as though we will never die; then die never having lived?”

The Dalai Lama also echoed a similar message:

“Man. Because he sacrifices his health in order to make money. Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health. And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived.” – The 14th Dalai Lama

27. Have No Regret

Finally, have no regret. When it comes to the end of your life, you don’t want to realize you have missed out on what is most important to you. Avoid regret . The important thing is to remember that you matter, and so does having a fulfilling life.

Your life matters. Make a conscious decision to ensure your time counts instead of just mindlessly going through the motions.

We hope this list of great ways to live life to the fullest gives you new ideas and inspires you to live a better life today. Want to know the secret of how to live life to the fullest? Stay inspired and have a positive attitude!

Quincy Seale

11 thoughts on “27 Ways To Live Life To The Fullest”

Aspire to inspire before you expire….

Really great article. Make others inspiring and also help in generating positive vibes.

Thanks for inspiring me through this site

My fellow Hindus never taught me this. Thanks to your attempt for making me think about leading life.

I pray that everyone here would know how much Jesus loves them.

Brilliant! I will save this up whenever I lose hope and direction. No.1 read I have ever come across or the timing is just right.

We humans tend to forget our time is limited. If a person can be conscious every moment that very soon he is going to die, we all could live a great life.

Each of the points are valid and helpful in letting us living a meaningful life to the fullest. I believe the most important thing is to have a clear Goal well identified. Most of the times we find ourselves struggling in our life without even knowing what actually we want from it. This happens due to lack of a Goal in our Life. A clear cut well identified goal helps us plan for it well in advance, and most wonderful thing about it is that we are aware of what we are doing.

A great article indeed.You don’t need years or any perfect moment to improve your life just that single moment is enough when you realize to change it.This article was a great inspiration for those who want to change and improve their life.

I am the woman who messed up her life and is now inspired to improve the direction. This article was exactly what I needed to pull myself out of the victim role and reset my mindset on what it is I want to accomplish and be determine to write that shit down. I will be the hero of my own life for me and my son. Thank you for all the recommendations. I already downloaded the audible version of the 4 hour work week and have been listening to it. Action is required in making my life the way on want it. Here we go.

Hi thanks for posting this it really touch my soul. I never know who you are, but i pray that you will have a blessed and abandunt life of sucess keep on doing this you inspire a lot of people. =)

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How to Live Life to the Fullest (42 Ways + Expert Insights)

Ever feel like life is just passing you by? You’re not alone. It’s something we all feel at some point. But here’s the kicker: it doesn’t have to be that way .

What if I told you that some small changes could bring big rewards to how you experience life every day? It’s true, and I’m here to share some easy tips to get us all feeling more alive and in tune with the beauty of living. Turning life into an adventure full of joy and accomplishment can start with some pretty simple steps.

Intrigued? Join me, and let’s explore them together.

Table of Contents

Be Aware of Yourself

Determine your values, recognize that life is a journey, not a destination, own your other, forgive yourself, stop “shoulding” yourself, stop comparing yourself now to your future self, appreciate every moment, find joy in the mundane, every day, it’s okay to accept that life is hard, embrace flexibility, challenge negative self-talk, spend most of it in the “now”, simplify your needs, get rid of the “supposed tos”, visualize your future self, feel all the feelings, hold no regrets, stop using the word “busy”, learn to ignore the naysayers, carefully choose who you spend time with, plan time with your positive-thinking friends, find people that inspire you, embrace a new set of goals, take back control of your time, get completely engaged with life, practice, permission, and perseverance, manage your stress and increase your productivity, learn to do the tough things first, it’s the little things, try new things, get out of balance, push your limits, be realistic, small changes for big goals, have a detailed plan of the day, vow to get healthier, don’t follow the herd, be a generous individual, challenge your fears, know when to disconnect, write a ‘live life to the fullest’ essay, takeaway expert insights, frequently asked questions, final thoughts.

Being aware of yourself is about understanding your emotions, recognizing your reactions, and knowing your strengths and weaknesses. This awareness is the foundation for growth and change.

Think of it as being the driver of your car rather than just a passenger. You get to decide the direction you’re heading, adjust your speed, and know when it’s time to take a break.

What this looks like in real life could be as simple as noticing when you’re feeling stressed and then pinpointing what’s causing it. It’s about asking yourself, “ Why am I reacting this way? ” and “ What can I learn from this? ”

By doing this, you can start to make choices that are more in line with who you are and who you want to be. You become more authentic, and, honestly, life becomes a bit smoother because you’re in tune with yourself.

My personal favorite step in living life to the fullest is figuring out your own values. I mean, what really matters to you?

Let’s try this together. Grab a piece of paper and a pen. Don’t worry, I’ll wait. Got it? Great! Now list the top five things that mean the world to you. It could be anything—family, honesty, adventure, stability, kindness, or creativity.

• Family: Might mean making time for family dinners or game nights.
• Honesty: Could lead you to be more open in your communications.
• Creativity: Perhaps you’ll prioritize setting aside time for your creative pursuits.

Done? Awesome, you’ve just started the blueprint of your life. These values will guide you in forming relationships, choosing careers, and setting boundaries. Stick to them, and you’ll be living authentically—the real you.

We’ve all heard it before, but it’s such a powerful truth: life is a journey. And yet, we often catch ourselves racing to that next big thing—graduation, job, house, you name it—as if that’s the ultimate prize.

But think about this: the fun is in the getting there , not just the arrival. It’s about the highs, the lows, and everything in between. The moments that make you, you. It’s about enjoying the process and not just waiting for some big, final destination to bring you happiness.

• Enjoying the process : Taking up a new hobby and enjoying the learning curve, whether it’s baking, gardening, or coding, instead of getting frustrated for not being perfect right away.
• Appreciating the moments : Like savoring the warm feeling of a morning coffee, the laughter shared with a friend or the quiet peace of a sunset.

Embracing what makes you uniquely you, your “ Other “, is like finding a hidden treasure within yourself. It’s all those parts you might have pushed to the background because you thought they wouldn’t fit in the picture society has painted for us.

But here’s the thing – your differences are not just okay; they’re what makes you extraordinary.

Starting to “Own Your Other” begins with recognizing and appreciating your unique qualities, interests, or perspectives that may not align with the mainstream. It’s about standing tall in your truth, even if your voice shakes at first.

Remember, every time you embrace your Other, you’re not just liberating yourself; you’re also setting a beacon for others to follow and find courage in their uniqueness.

Forgiving yourself is crucial, yet, surprisingly tough. We often hold ourselves to such high standards and beat ourselves over mistakes far more than we ever would a friend.

• Acknowledge:  Recognize the mistake openly. Admitting is the first step to learning.
• Learn:  What can this mistake teach you? Every error has a lesson hidden within.
• Release:  Consciously decide to let go of the guilt attached to this mistake. It served its purpose; now, it’s time to move on.
• Recommit:  Pledge to use what you’ve learned to make better choices moving forward.

Holding onto past mistakes does nothing but weigh you down. By forgiving yourself, you set yourself free to enjoy life more and open doors to new experiences.

The word “ should ” can be a heavy burden. It comes laden with guilt, obligation, and societal pressure, often leading us down a path that doesn’t truly resonate with our hearts. So, how about we try dropping “ should ” from our vocabulary?

Instead of saying, “ I should work out more “, let’s reframe it to, “ I want to feel stronger and more energized. Exercising can help me achieve that. ” This shift not only removes the guilt associated with a task left undone but also connects the action to a desired feeling or outcome that’s personally meaningful.

As you begin to stop “shoulding” yourself, you’ll notice how much lighter your decision-making process becomes. Choices start to align more with your desires and values, like we discussed earlier, leading to a more authentic and fulfilling life. It’s about transforming pressure into preference and obligation into aspiration.

We often fall into the trap of imagining a future version of ourselves that’s somehow leaps and bounds ahead of where we are today. But here’s a thought: what if you’re already pretty amazing?

While it’s great to have goals, constantly comparing your current self to this idealized future self can really hold you back. It’s like trying to start a race from the finish line.

You’re a work in progress, and that’s actually one of the best things about being alive.

Each day adds a brushstroke to your masterpiece. So cut yourself some slack. If you’re not the world champion chess player you dreamed of being just yet, remember it’s okay. Enjoy the learning, the growth, and the becoming. It’s time to be your own cheerleader for the present you.

Appreciating every moment is about being fully present and finding the beauty in the here and now, even in the most ordinary circumstances. It’s easy to breeze through our days without really noticing the world around us, but when we slow down and intentionally look for joy , it’s everywhere.

• Morning routines:  The aroma of your coffee, the soft light of dawn, the quiet before the day starts.
• Daily commutes:  The scenery, the people, the opportunity to simply breathe and be.
• Even chores:  The rhythm of folding laundry, the satisfaction of a tidy space, the warmth of a home cared for.

By making a concerted effort to appreciate the moments that make up our day, we enrich our lives immeasurably. It’s the collection of these moments that truly defines a well-lived life.

Life isn’t just a collection of highlight reels; it’s mostly made up of ordinary days, and there’s so much beauty to be found in that. Finding joy in the mundane is an art—one that transforms our daily experiences from mundane to magical.

These everyday sparkles can turn an ‘ eh ‘ day into a ‘ yeah ‘ day before you know it. Get into the groove of recognizing these tidbits of cheer.

Mundane, after all, is just another word for unnoticed magic.

Acknowledging that life can be hard is not a sign of weakness; it’s a recognition of reality . This acceptance allows us to address our problems more effectively rather than pretending they don’t exist.

Instead of expecting a smooth journey all the time, give yourself the space to say, “ Hey, this is tough, but I’m tougher. ” It’s about giving yourself permission to struggle and still knowing that you have what it takes to get through it.

So, take a deep breath, and don’t beat yourself up when times get tough. You’ve gotten through 100% of your bad days so far, and that’s a pretty impressive track record. Look at each obstacle as an assurance that when you come out on the other side, you’ll be wiser and ready for anything.

Embrace flexibility, and you’ll find that life becomes less about resisting changes and more about going with the flow.

Here’s why flexibility can be your superpower:

• It allows you to adapt to new situations without a big fuss.
• New opportunities often lie just beyond a change of plan.
• When things don’t go your way, staying flexible means you can quickly pivot to plan B (or C or D!).

Flexibility doesn’t mean you’re directionless; it simply means you’re open to the adventure of life. When doors close, look for the window that opened. If you miss your bus, enjoy the unexpected walk. It’s all about making the best of whatever comes your way and enjoying the vibrancy of the unpredictable.

You wouldn’t let someone else talk down to you, so why do it to yourself? Negative self-talk can be a real mood killer and can hold you back from seizing the day. Let’s turn that inner critic into an inner coach, shall we?

• Pay attention to patterns. Notice when and why you tend to be hard on yourself.
• Practice positive self-talk. Replace “ I can’t handle this ” with “ I’ve handled tough things before, and I can do it again. “
• Question your inner critic. Ask yourself, “ Is what I’m thinking really true? ” and follow up with evidence that supports your real abilities and worth.

Instead of letting negative thoughts set up camp in your mind, address them head-on as they arise. Swap out those harsh words for encouraging and realistic affirmations.

Living in the “now” is about fully immersing yourself in the present moment. It’s easy to get caught up in what happened yesterday or what might happen tomorrow, but the true essence of life is experienced in the here and now.

By focusing on the present, you engage more deeply with your surroundings, people, and activities, shedding the weight of past regrets and future anxieties. This mindfulness enriches your experiences, allowing you to appreciate life’s simple pleasures and beauty that might otherwise go unnoticed.

We often convince ourselves we need more: the latest gadget, a bigger car, the trendiest clothes. But do we really? Let’s strip that back and simplify our needs.

Here’s why simplifying is beneficial:

• Reduces stress:  Fewer needs mean fewer worries and a lighter mental load.
• Increases appreciation:  When you focus on what truly matters, you start appreciating the things you have rather than longing for what you don’t.
• Enhances freedom:  Simplifying your life gives you more space, time, and energy to pursue your passions and interests.

Here’s how you start:

• List what’s really important. You might be surprised that it’s not the stuff but rather the people and experiences that top the list.
• Declutter your space. Hold on to items that serve a purpose or make you happy, and let go of the rest.
• Streamline your commitments. If something doesn’t improve your life or align with your values, it’s okay to say no.

Breaking free from the wish list of wants allows us to value the must-haves of life. Suddenly, there’s less to worry about and more time to enjoy the things that truly matter.

And you know what? It feels liberating.

You know those things you do because you think you’re supposed to, not because you want to? It’s high time we kicked “ supposed to ” out of our vocabulary. Being shackled by expectations—whether they’re from society, family, or even ourselves—may lead to a life less lived.

• Challenge the norm. Just because everyone does something a certain way doesn’t mean it’s right for you.
• Tune into your desires. If your heart isn’t in it, find the courage to explore what really excites you.
• Create your own path. Author your life’s story with actions that align with your personal truth.

By getting rid of the “ supposed tos ,” you give yourself permission to follow your own path, make choices based on your personal values, and embrace your individuality.

Remember, the only approval you need is your own.

When you live authentically, aligned with what truly matters to you, life becomes infinitely more fulfilling.

Visualization is more than mere daydreaming; it’s a strategic approach to crafting your future. Imagine the life you’re aiming for—where you are, who you’re with, and what you’ve achieved. This isn’t a fantasy; it’s the blueprint of your future life.

When you visualize, you’re setting targets, shaping the steps you need to take to get there.

• Find a Quiet Space:  Choose a calm and comfortable spot where you can relax without interruptions.
• Close Your Eyes and Breathe Deeply:  Take a few deep breaths to center yourself and clear your mind.
• Picture Your Future Self:  Imagine where you want to be in five, ten, or twenty years. Think about your career, relationships, health, and personal achievements. Make it as detailed as possible.
• Focus on Your Emotions:  How do you feel in this future? Proud? Joyful? Content? Try to truly feel those emotions in the present moment.
• Identify the Steps:  Consider what actions your future self took to get there. What habits did they form? What challenges did they overcome?
• Open Your Eyes and Write It Down:  Jot down your vision and the steps you imagined. This makes your future more tangible and attainable.

By regularly visualizing your future self and the path to get there, you reinforce your commitment to your goals and begin to align your present actions with your future aspirations.

Our emotional range is a gift that adds depth to our lives. Every feeling, from joy to sorrow, is an important shade in the palette of our experiences. So, embrace them all.

Here’s how to navigate your emotions:

• Accept each feeling as it comes. Whether it’s joy, sadness, or anger, it’s part of being human.
• Understand that feeling down shows empathy and compassion, while fear can be a sign of growth.
• Let emotions flow through you. They each teach us something vital and bind us together in shared experiences.

Welcome every emotion for what it offers. They enhance our empathy, push us toward justice, and invite us to courageous acts. By embracing them all, you navigate life with a deeper understanding and a fuller heart.

Letting go of regrets helps you enjoy the present and look forward to the future. Every choice and mistake has shaped you into someone who can grow and learn. Dwelling on regrets holds you back. Learn from past regrets and the lessons they offer.

Forgive yourself, knowing you did the best you could with what you knew then. Concentrate on what you can do now that matches your values and goals. Regrets can actually be hidden opportunities.

By letting them go, you welcome new chances and a happier life.

“Busy” has become a default response for too many of us. But what does it really say? It’s time we retired “busy” from our vocabulary and got more specific. Busy doesn’t reflect the richness of our lives—it just sounds like we’re always rushing and too occupied for anything else.

• Swap out “busy” for phrases that reflect your true state of being. Perhaps you’re “engaged in a project” or “finding time for what’s important.”
• Share meaningful updates when asked how you are. “ I’m busy ” can become “ I’m excited about a new hobby I’ve started “, giving a glimpse into your life.

When you stop using “busy,” you create space to be more present, more open, and more connected to others and yourself.

Naysayers are a dime a dozen, but the truth is, their words often matter less than we think. It’s the kind of background noise you’ve got to tune out to focus on your own tune.

Spot the difference between practical advice and plain old pessimism. Welcome the feedback that helps you grow, and gently discard the rest.

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The path to living life fully is to trust your own judgment and capabilities. Listening to constructive criticism is valuable, but learning to sift through feedback and ignoring outright negativity is crucial.

Ground yourself in your vision and the belief in your ability to achieve it. Surround yourself with supporters who uplift you, challenge you constructively, and believe in your potential.

Life is too short to be boxed in by others’ limitations.

The company you keep has a powerful influence on your life. The attitudes, perspectives, and habits of those around us can either lift us up or weigh us down. So be selective with who you allow into your inner circle.

Opt for companions who reflect the qualities you value and those who encourage you to be the best version of yourself. It’s not about quantity; it’s the quality of your relationships that truly enriches your life.

Scheduling time with friends who uplift you isn’t just fun—it’s nourishing for your soul. Positive-thinking friends radiate energy that’s contagious; they help you see the good in situations, encourage you when you’re down, and celebrate your successes without a hint of envy.

Here’s how to make the most of this:

• Make it a Regular Event:  Whether it’s a weekly coffee date or a monthly hike, having something to look forward to can keep spirits high.
• Be Present:  Value this time together by being fully present. Put away your phones and give each other your undivided attention.
• Share and Listen:  Use this time to share your aspirations and challenges. Listen to their stories and advice with an open heart.

These moments can provide a wellspring of positive energy that fuels your resilience and joy.

Being around people who inspire you can significantly affect your personal and professional growth. Inspiration can come from various sources – a colleague who constantly seeks to improve, a friend who’s passionate about helping others, or a mentor who embodies the values you admire.

To find these individuals:

• Identify the qualities you admire:  What traits inspire you? Determination, creativity, kindness?
• Search in different arenas:  Look beyond your immediate circle. Attend workshops, join clubs related to your interests, or volunteer.
• Reach out:  Don’t hesitate to connect. Most people are flattered by genuine interest and happy to share their journey.
• Engage in meaningful conversations:  Go beyond small talk. Ask about their motivations, challenges, and lessons learned.

Finding and engaging with people who inspire you opens up a world of learning and motivation. These relationships, whether they’re deep friendships or brief encounters, can ignite your passion and propel you toward your goals.

Setting new goals is like plotting points on the map of your life’s journey. It’s about deciding where you want to go next based on where you’ve been and what you’ve learned.

As you grow and change, your aspirations will too. This is a natural and important process that keeps life exciting and meaningful. Embrace the opportunity to dream anew, considering what accomplishments would fill you with pride and fulfillment.

Setting new goals isn’t just about achieving them; it’s about who you become along the way. Remember, each goal achieved opens the door to new possibilities and challenges, constantly propelling you forward on your path to living life to its fullest.

Time is your most valuable asset—treat it that way. Taking control of your time means prioritizing what’s truly important and learning to say no to what isn’t.

It’s about:

• Identifying your top priorities and allocating time to them first.
• Learning to delegate tasks that others can handle.
• Setting boundaries to protect your time from being eaten up by distractions.

Manage your schedule so it reflects your values and desires, not just the demands of others. This way, time becomes a tool for crafting the life you want, not a thief that steals your moments.

Getting completely engaged with life means immersing yourself fully in your experiences, actively participating in the present, and enriching your life with meaningful activities and relationships.

What this looks like varies from person to person, but here are a few examples:

• Pursuing passions:  Dedicating time to what lights you up, be it painting, writing, or any other passion, and doing it wholeheartedly.
• Deepening relationships:  Building strong connections by giving undivided attention during conversations and sharing experiences with loved ones.
• Learning continuously:  Seeking out new knowledge or skills, embracing a mindset of growth and curiosity.
• Being present:  Practicing mindfulness in daily activities, appreciating the moment without distraction.

Engagement is about diving into life with enthusiasm and openness, ensuring that each day is lived to its fullest and richest extent. By doing so, you cultivate a life filled with joy, purpose, and fulfillment.

Embarking on any journey towards personal growth or achievement often comes down to three essential Ps: practice, permission, and perseverance.

Here’s how they can transform your pursuit of a full life:

• Practice : Cultivate your skills and passions through regular, dedicated effort.
• Permission : Allow yourself to fail, change course, and celebrate small successes.
• Perseverance : Keep going despite setbacks. Let each hurdle strengthen your resolve.

These principles act as pillars supporting your journey to a life lived to its fullest—embracing every bump with resilience and grace.

To manage stress and boost your productivity, start with your to-do list. Cut out tasks that aren’t really necessary. Make sure to take short breaks throughout your day to relax and recharge.

Simple things like deep breathing, a quick walk, or stepping away from your screen can help clear your mind. Balancing work and play is important too. When you’re less stressed, you get more done, and you’ll enjoy both your work and your free time a lot more.

Remember, being productive doesn’t mean being busy all the time; it means being smart about how you use your time.

Tackling the most challenging tasks at the beginning of your day or project can significantly boost your productivity and overall sense of accomplishment.

When you “ eat the frog ” – a term popularized by Brian Tracy, meaning to do your most daunting task first – you lift a weight off your shoulders, making the rest of your day or project feel more manageable.

This practice not only helps you make significant progress in your goals but also cultivates a discipline of facing challenges head-on, which is invaluable for personal and professional growth.

Ever noticed how a single kind word or a small act of kindness can light up your day? That’s the power of the little things. They may seem insignificant on their own, but together, they create the texture of our lives.

Make it a point to observe and treasure these moments:

• Appreciate the morning silence, offering a moment for reflection.
• Smile at strangers on the street; it’s a simple gesture that can uplift someone’s day, including yours.
• Observe the beauty in nature — the bloom of flowers, the colors of the sunset, and the sound of rain against the window.

Acknowledging and appreciating these tiny joys can make a world of difference to your mood and outlook. After all, a life full of little pleasures is a life brimming with happiness.

Venturing into the unknown by trying new things can revitalize your life. It can be anything from sampling a cuisine you’ve never tasted to picking up a hobby you’ve always been curious about.

Each new experience is a chance to learn and grow.

You might discover a passion you never knew you had or meet people who will change your life for the better. Embrace the novelty; let it refresh your perspectives and invigorate your zest for life.

While balance is a well-meaning goal, it can sometimes lead to a standstill. Step out of the usual routine and shake things up. It’s in those off-kilter moments that creativity and innovation thrive. Life’s unpredictability can be a gateway to your greatest discoveries and achievements.

Embrace the imbalance and see what extraordinary things unfold.

Pushing your limits is how you find out what you’re truly capable of. It’s not about reckless risk-taking; it’s about gently but firmly challenging your own boundaries.

• Sign up for that marathon, even if you’re not a runner.
• Volunteer for the project that seems a little out of your depth.
• Speak up in the meeting, even if your voice shakes.

By nudging ourselves beyond our comfort zone, we encounter new strengths and conquer fears. Each step past the familiar increases our confidence and expands our world.

Being realistic is all about setting achievable expectations for yourself and the world around you. It means acknowledging both your potential and your limits. By setting attainable goals, you’re more likely to achieve them and less likely to be disappointed.

This doesn’t mean you should sell yourself short — aim high but within the realm of possibility . Being realistic helps to build a solid foundation for success, keeping you grounded and focused as you work towards living your fullest life.

Thinking about reaching a huge goal can be daunting. But guess what? You don’t need to leap there in one giant step. It starts with identifying the larger goal and then breaking it down into smaller, actionable steps.

It could be as simple as waking up fifteen minutes earlier to meditate or read or choosing water over soda at lunch. Over time, these small choices add up to big transformations.

A detailed daily plan serves as a roadmap for your day, helping you navigate through tasks efficiently. Here’s a simple approach to planning:

• Start your day with a clear outline : List your tasks in order of priority.
• Allocate time blocks : Assign specific times to each task to avoid overcommitting.
• Include breaks : Short breaks rejuvenate your mind and enhance productivity.
• Stay flexible : Allow room for adjustments as unexpected tasks or opportunities arise.

By laying out your day thoughtfully, you maintain focus and direction, ensuring that your energy is spent on what truly matters.

Making a commitment to improve your health is a crucial step towards living life to its fullest. To get healthier, start with small, sustainable changes like:

• Integrating more fruits and vegetables into your meals.
• Adding physical activity to your routine, even if it’s a short walk daily.
• Ensuring you get enough sleep every night to recharge your energy.

As these new habits become part of your lifestyle, you’ll notice positive changes in your physical well-being, mental clarity, and overall mood. By vowing to get healthier, you’re not just adding years to your life; you’re adding life to your years.

Forge your own path instead of simply following in the footsteps of others. It’s easy to get caught up in what everyone else is doing or thinking, but true fulfillment comes from making decisions based on your own values and aspirations.

Being different is not just acceptable; it’s commendable. Remember, the most rewarding journeys often begin with a step away from the familiar and into the unknown.

Generosity isn’t always about money; it’s about sharing what you have, whether it’s time, knowledge, or kindness. Generosity enriches your life as much as it does for others. When you give without expecting anything in return, you’re building a legacy of compassion and community.

Here are a few simple ways to practice generosity:

• Volunteer your time to a cause you care about.
• Share your expertise with someone who can benefit from your skills.
• Perform random acts of kindness whenever the opportunity arises.

Being generous doesn’t deplete your resources; it multiplies them. It fills your life with warmth and deep satisfaction.

Facing your fears is like unlocking a door to a new level of personal growth. It’s natural to feel fear, but confronting and overcoming it is what leads to real strength and confidence.

Start by recognizing the fears that hold you back, then step up to them, one by one, with measured courage. As you tackle your fears, even with small steps, they lose their power over you .

This journey of conquering your fears not only lessens their intimidation but also builds a stronger, braver version of you.

In our always-connected world, knowing when to step away from digital devices and social media is crucial for mental well-being and productivity. Unplugging allows you to recharge, fosters deeper connections with others, and provides space for reflection.

Pay attention to how much time you spend online and recognize when it starts to detract from your quality of life. Set boundaries for your tech use, such as designated tech-free hours or zones in your home, to help cultivate a balanced and fulfilling life.

Pondering on paper how to live life to the fullest can be an enlightening exercise. It helps to clarify your thoughts, dreams, and intentions.

Writing such an essay allows you to:

• Reflect on your past experiences, the lessons learned, and the joy found in small moments.
• Articulate your future aspirations and what ‘living fully’ truly means to you.
• Commit to steps you’ll take to inject more meaning and happiness into your daily existence.

Putting your philosophy down in writing not only solidifies your commitment to living life to the fullest, but it also serves as a personal manifesto —a reminder of how you choose to navigate the beautiful journey of life.

“Yolo… means living every day doing what it is that matters most to you. It means doing exactly what it is that you want every day and not taking a prerogative from anybody else… To live life to the fullest you always have to be questioning ‘Is what I am doing right now the best thing I could be doing with the limited time I have on this earth?'” — Trent Hankinson | Frontman & Manager, Aqua Seca Band

“The people you spend time with will influence your ambitions, change your attitude… I choose to spend my free time with people who see possibilities and don’t limit their lives based on what they lack… I want them to be people who are exhibiting the traits I would like to have in my life, such as positivity, dedication and the goal of helping others.” — Beth Bridges | Author/Speaker

Is it possible to live life to the fullest while dealing with financial constraints?

Absolutely. Living life to the fullest isn’t solely about having abundant financial resources; it’s about making the most of what you have.

This can mean enjoying nature, spending quality time with loved ones, or engaging in low-cost hobbies that bring you joy. Creativity can flourish when resources are limited.

How do changes in personal relationships affect my ability to live life to the fullest?

Changes in relationships, whether they’re ending or beginning, can profoundly impact your life. These transitions offer opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

Staying open to new connections and learning from past relationships can enhance your journey to living fully.

How do I deal with the fear of missing out (FOMO) while trying to live life to the fullest?

To combat FOMO , focus on what brings you personal satisfaction rather than comparing your life to others. Mindfulness and gratitude for your unique experiences can help ground you in the present and help you appreciate your own journey.

How can I inspire others to start living their lives to the fullest?

Leading by example is one of the most powerful ways to inspire others. Share your journey, the ups and downs, and the lessons learned along the way. Offer encouragement and support to those exploring their paths to fullness.

By being open and authentic about your experiences, you can motivate others to embark on their journeys.

And just like that, we’re at the final chapter. Think of all the tips I shared as tools you can use to build a happier, fuller life. There’s no need to rush. Life’s not a race. The point is to enjoy it, learn as you go, and do more of what makes you happy.

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Jahrine Okutsu

Jahrine Okutsu believes that words are powerful tools for connecting people. Driven by this conviction, she earned a degree in Communication and now applies this principle daily in her role as a committed writer and editor.

In her downtime, she finds delight in the simple pleasures of life—watching movies, playing horror games, and sipping on a warm cup of coffee. She sometimes gets lost in daydreams, letting her imagination wander, while at other times, she finds focus and peace through spiritual practices. Her dog, Zoey, brings an extra layer of joy and fulfillment to her life.

Live Life to the Fullest

By: Top   •  Essay  •  469 Words  •  November 29, 2009  •  3,223 Views

Essay title: Live Life to the Fullest

Living life to the Fullest

When I herd we were going to write a paper on how we could live life to the fullest, I was very excited. I feel that if you waste your life by only doing enough to get by should be a crime. We were put on this earth to do something special with our lives and we should never take that for granted. People that do not do everything to the best of their abilities aren’t only cheating themselves but also the others around them. Throughout this paper I will be explaining why I feel that living my life to the fullest is so important.

One of the first reasons everyone should live their lives to the fullest is because if you don’t you will have missed out on so many great opportunities. If you don’t do the best you can in everything than you’ll never know how far you could have gotten. Take a sport for instance, if you don’t practice than you’ll never get any better. Yet if you do put everything you have into that sport you will become one of the best athletes on that field. You can apply that same determination to school work, your job, your marriage, pretty much anything you do in life you should do your best. Not only will you succeed in life if you do your best you will be happy with yourself.

You should live your life to the fullest in your community by helping people when they need it. I mean if you see one of your neighbors bringing in their groceries you should go and help them. Also

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Live Life To The Fullest

As Maria Robinson once said, “Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending” The average life span of an American is a short 78 years so if we are going to live life to the fullest we better start today. We take for granted the simplest of things, like breathing. You take in about 28,800 breathes in one day so why don't you go out and create moments that take those breathes away because I mean we have a few to spare. Living life isn't something we joke about though, I'm not trying to say we need to out and be crazy and do things that will jeopardize the chance to fulfill our lives but don't be afraid of having dreams that are totally far fetched, taking a chance, making mistakes, and not being everything we can be. I can't be the only one out there who wants to arrive at my grave and be able to say, “Phew some peace and quiet.” While I'm around I want to take every opportunity and make it reality. It is said that laughter is the best medicine, well it may not be medicine but it is on of the best things for you. In fact aside from improving our moods, reduces stress, boosts your immune system because of the facial mussels being connected it makes a response between your thymus gland that is connected with your immune system, and reduce pain. It is said that laughing can even extend your life span. Also studies have established 18 different kinds of smiles but the one that is most used is pure enjoyment and as most know it takes less muscles to frown, 47 to 13. So theres more reasons to happy as if being alive isn't enough. You may be thinking then why is it that people stop themselves from living fully. People but up a wall of thinking they can't do anything. Most of the time it is dwelling on the past. By what people say or do to us effects what we think as much as we don't want to admit it. Negative people only see bad things in life, almost like a tunnel vision. Being around those negative people can eventually bring you down too. It happens when we start to agree with them and loose our passion about the everyday things in our lives. There are three kinds of negative people. One is dream killers, these are the ones who tell you things like the dream you posses is a waste of time. Crabs, the ones that are always around critiquing and holding us back. And constant complainers, these are the people that can always find something wrong with their lives and they are just downers. This all comes by people thinking life will never be good , so they do nothing to make it better. There are many ways to create a happy full life. You can replacing a bad though by a good one, make a list of things you want to do before you die, live day by day, go new places, reflect on the things you have a accomplished, accept people for who they are, be realistic with the goals you set, and the most cliché of them all listen to your heart, you will always find the best choice. Remember, Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.

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Why Living Life to the Fullest Is Important

As you grow older, you will always hear the question, “Are you living life to the fullest?” Everything moves quickly in a world where, people forget to cherish the present moment. However, it is important to remember that everyday life is only experienced by you and that you should live your life in your own way.

This does not mean that you should disregard the advice of others, but rather that you should take what resonates with you and use it to create a richer experience. Life is precious, and it is up to you to make the most of it. So ask yourself: are you living life to the fullest? And if not, what steps can you take to change that?

People focus on the idea that living life to the full is to achieve success pertaining to owning big things and experiencing life without discomfort. That living life becomes rare as people tend only to exist. Living life to the fullest sink along with the real meaning of life .

However, little did they know that there is more to life than just existing. There are many ways to live—you can experience  luxury living  like owning luxury real estate, a condominium in Tagaytay, and visiting Crosswinds Tagaytay which will make you live the life you deserve.

As cliche as it may sound, always “seize the moment.” Experience life by being kind, finding new friends, practicing gratitude, learning new skills, creating something new, having all the fun in the world, whatever it is, and just discovering the beauty of this life. And remember, there is only one person who can do all of that is you. Stop looking into someone else’s life, have courage, set goals, practice gratitude, and start living the present. Breathe and don’t waste time.

So why is living life to the fullest important?

• Life is a miracle.
• To know yourself better.
• Tomorrow is never a promise.
• You’ll inspire other people.
• Life is beautiful.

1. Life is a miracle

People can use the money to buy a condominium in Tagaytay, pre-selling lot for sale, and even houses in Crosswinds Tagaytay from Brittany homes, but no money in the world can buy a life for their family, friends, or for the person they love. If you think about it, the human body works fascinatingly. Every second, the human body produces millions of cells and in an average lifespan of a person, their hearts beat more than three billion times. Interesting, right? How one body works wondrously. That alone is a miracle.

That is why being able to live life is a gift you should never take advantage of. Some people have luxury living and are ready to spend a lot of money to have a child or extend the lives of their loved ones. So have gratitude and realize the things in life that matter.

It is simple to become consumed with the activities of daily life to the point that one loses sight of what is truly essential in one’s life. However, it is essential to keep in mind that life is a gift, and it is entirely up to you to ensure that you make the most of this opportunity. Spend time with your loved ones, including your family and friends.

Engage in pursuits that bring you joy. Because it is your life and no one else’s, you should live it the way you want. You only have one opportunity to do this successfully, so make the most of it. If you take advantage of everything that life has to offer, you’ll not only have a better time, but you’ll also be an example to those around you. Therefore, make it a point to enjoy your life to the fullest because it is the most valuable gift you possess.

2. To know yourself better

People always say that you know yourself better, but it’s not always the case. Sometimes, there’s a point in life where even you have lost track of direction and don’t know where to find yourself again. You may become impulsive, like buying  pre selling lot for sale  that you don’t even need since you already have luxury real estate. But you still did it because of the negative emotion you felt for a few minutes.

You incorporate success with buying new things. You spend and make things happen without thinking too much about it. You feel like there is a greater sense of identity when you have a literally richer experience, but when you look into your deepest core, you’ll discover that you are still not happy. You still feel a void in your heart.

You don’t know where you are because the world changes and moves so quickly. So, living your life to the fullest can change your view of life, help you learn more about yourself, and make you a better person. It will make you realize new things and what you can still do. If you know who you truly are, you will realize how you want to create the beautiful journey of life you deserve.

3. Tomorrow is never a promise.

It is one of the reasons why living life to the fullest is meaningful; tomorrow is never a promise. Life is very short. You thought you had forever, but you don’t. And the one that will make you realize this is death. When a person dies , people around them feel fear and realize that they have barely lived. A realization that will make them understand that tomorrow is never a promise.

No matter how hard you work, you still can’t do anything if you don’t have tomorrow. All the rules you follow, core values, richer experiences, the future you envision, and the dreams you dream—will amount to nothing but the memories you make. This concludes our discussion.

So stop waiting and have the courage to live life to the fullest. Leave your comfort zones. Do what makes you happy, take a moment away from your regular routine, and come up with your unique approach to spending time with your loved ones. Create memories. Pursue that happiness you are longing for. Appreciate the moment because you can never bring it back; only the memory of happiness and gratitude will remain. Only you can decide to live life to the fullest. Don’t let anyone else control your life – you only have one life to live, so make it count.

If you want, you can create a  travel  list and visit beautiful places like  Tagaytay  and Laguna, where a lot of luxury real estate is available, such as condominiums in Tagaytay and pre-selling lot for sale. Who knows, you might see the idea of your future house. For sure, you will feel fulfilled, and it will have a positive impact on your life.

4. You’ll inspire other people.

Let’s face it: many individuals are reluctant to push themselves to their limits and experience all that life has to offer. Many life-changing quotes from Steve Jobs, William Feather, and Joe Lewis can help them find the courage they need. Many positive things are already available by providing free ebooks and more articles online. But it is better to show them what it feels like to live life to the fullest.

So why not experience life to the fullest, especially if you can be an instrument for others to do the same? Nowadays, building relationships and taking care of each other are essential. Inspire others’ lives. Bring joy to the hearts of those around you. Spend every day practicing kindness and showing that you love life. In that way, people will taste your experience through your life.

5. Life is beautiful

Life is beautiful—it’s always been. People just think it doesn’t because of the different perspectives they have and the negative emotions they experience in life. However, bear in mind that hardship is just part of living life; it is not the whole part.

Look at your surroundings; you will see how lucky you are to be alive. Many houses are built like Brittany homes, offering luxury living in Crosswinds Tagaytay. You can never ask for more.

Appreciate the beauty of living with Brittany

Life is full of opportunity; you just can’t see it because you’re not living life to the fullest. Remember, always aim for a fulfilling life, not a richer life full of fear of losing something less valuable than life. Forget your past and worry about the future; just live in the present and appreciate the  beauty of living . Live the life you deserve with Brittany’s luxury real estate properties:

Crosswinds Tagaytay

Crosswinds Tagaytay is a haven south of Manila inspired by the architecture of Switzerland. At one of Tagaytay’s highest points, there are rows of beautiful chalets on a green hillside. Over 35,000 pine trees perfume the property with their sweet scent, further adding to the calm while the music of interweaving winds soothes the Crosswinds Tagaytay is more than just a place; it’s a feeling. It’s a break from the mundane and chaotic pace of life. It’s a chance to reconnect with what’s important. It’s an opportunity to find happiness.

Suggested Article: Your Full Guide To Experience Crosswinds Tagaytay Suggested Article: Tagaytay Restaurants That Foodies Will Enjoy

Tagaytay Restaurants That Foodies Will Enjoy

Crosswinds isn’t just a resort; it’s an escape. And sometimes, all we need is a short break to help us remember what’s really important. Crosswinds Tagaytay is more than just a beautiful property. It’s a place where we can forget our troubles and remember what matters most. So come and experience Crosswinds Tagaytay. Because in this fast-paced world, sometimes the important hinge need is a little time to breathe. And Crosswinds Tagaytay is the perfect place to do just that.

Crosswinds Tagaytay also offers luxury condo, which is known as Alpine Villas which offers pre-selling condo,s and The Grand Quartier, which offers ready-for-occupancy condo units. Both are luxurious in every way.

Amore at Portofino Alabang

Amore at Portofino is designed to give its residents the best life has to offer. From the well-thought-out community master plan to the focus on providing a taste experience, Amore was created with the idea of providing its residents with a well-rounded and fulfilling life. Every part of Amore was made with the best life in mind, and you can see it in the attention to detail and high level of quality. If you’re looking for a community that will provide you with the best life experience, look no further than Amore at Portofino.

Suggested Article: Meet Pietro, Your Luxury Dream Home Suggested Article: Live a Life of Romance in Your Amore Home

Portofino Alabang is Brittany’s ode to the joy of the Italian way of life. It is in the middle of what is called the New Alabang. Portofino Alabang is a place where only the most deserving people get to live in the grandest homes. It was built to fit in with the natural rolling hills of Daang Hari.

With its charming cobblestone streets, picturesque piazzas, and quaint courtyards, Portofino Alabang is truly a slice of paradise. Here, you can live your best life and enjoy all the best things that life has to offer. Whether taking a leisurely stroll through the gardens or enjoying a meal at one of the many fine dining establishments, Portofino Alabang is sure to delight and enchant.

La Posada at The Lakefront is another luxury real estate property that offers house and lot in Metro Manila.

The Promenade at Brittany Sta. Rosa

The Promenade in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, looks like the English countryside. Sta. Rosa City, Laguna, is quickly becoming the “Makati of the South” because of its booming economy and the building of some of the most beautiful homes and recreation areas in the country. Even though it is called the “Lion Metropolis,” the main city and hub of South Luzon have a small-town feel to it.

Suggested Article: What does a “Good Life” mean? Suggested Article: How National Tree Day Promotes Greener Communities

Brittany, the luxury real estate of Vista Land that caters to people who dream of living in luxury residences, has decided to replace the English countryside with a 29-hectare property called Promenade in the middle of this unusual city.

Aside from the Promenade, Brittany offers luxury house and lot in laguna with other properties known as Georgia Club, Belle Reve, and Augusta.

Create your life with your own hands.

Seek out your bearings and regain your bearings! Given that most people don’t, it’s important to learn to appreciate it.  Live your life  to the fullest, build relationships, take care of your family and friends, reach for your dreams, and live your life to the best you can. You may hear it too often, but you only live once, so make it worth it.

You are the only person who can give yourself a newer and richer experience. You are the only person who can make yourself feel positive emotions. The only person who can make the most of your life is you. So why shouldn’t you? Why not try something more interesting and different? Why not give yourself more reasons to feel good? Why not make the most of your life? You are the only one who can stop you. So, stop putting it off and do it already! Go all out and take pleasure in each and every moment of your existence.

Let joy fill your heart. Let yourself experience the best journey. Take care of your well-being by cherishing every moment of your daily life. Fill yourself with positive emotions by making yourself live in a healthy environment like Brittany’s. Create your life with your own hands.

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Growth Mindset

2 ways to lead a psychologically rich life, tired of monotonous routines here's how to psychologically enrich your life..

Updated September 26, 2024 | Reviewed by Lybi Ma

Is your life stuck in routine or brimming with experiences that challenge and transform you? If you find yourself craving more than just happiness or a sense of purpose, you might be seeking a psychologically rich life.

Researchers of a 2020 study published in Philosophical Psychology describe it as “a life characterized by complexity, in which people experience a variety of interesting things and feel and appreciate a variety of deep emotions via firsthand or vicarious experiences.”

While most researchers agree that this type of life is not necessarily any better than a happy or meaningful one, such experiences can contribute to a truly memorable existence.

Here are two signs of living a psychologically rich life, according to research.

1. Having Interesting Life Experiences

A psychologically rich life is shaped by the continuous pursuit of novel, varied, and interesting experiences, which result in important changes in perspective. Unlike a happy life, which might be more focused on stability and comfort, or a meaningful existence, which emphasizes purpose, a psychologically rich life thrives on change, even if it’s uncomfortable.

A 2020 study conducted across nine nations, published in Affective Science, found a significant number of people would ideally want to live a psychologically rich life, even at the expense of a happy or meaningful life.

The study also found that roughly 28 percent of American participants reported that if they could reverse the one life event that they regret most, their lives would have been psychologically richer.

“One problem with happy and meaningful lives is that both can be monotonous and repetitive. A person with a steady—perhaps even rewarding—nine-to-five job, happily married with children, may have a happy and, in many respects, meaningful life, but not necessarily a life rich in diverse experiences,” the researchers explain.

Those who lead psychologically rich lives often actively seek out new perspectives, cultures, and ideas. They are drawn to activities that challenge their thinking, broaden their worldview, or immerse them in unfamiliar situations.

Whether it’s traveling to a new country, trying an unusual hobby, or engaging with people from different backgrounds, these experiences serve to break the monotony of everyday life, allowing them to grow and evolve continuously.

For instance, consider traveling to a country where you don’t speak the language. You’re not only immersed in a new environment but also confronted with challenges like communication barriers and cultural differences. This experience can reshape your worldview and allow for growth in unexpected ways.

2. Living a Cognitively Complex Life

A study published in June in the Journal of Research in Personality suggests that a psychologically rich life is distinct in its cognitive complexity. Researchers found that those who experience psychological richness process social information in more complex ways, including:

• A greater attributional complexity. Attributional complexity refers to the tendency to seek out and consider multiple causes when explaining others’ behavior. For instance, if someone cuts them off in traffic, some might immediately label the driver as rude or reckless. However, a person with greater attributional complexity might consider that the driver is rushing to an emergency or simply had a moment of distraction.
• Practicing holism. Holistic thinkers see the bigger picture, viewing individual experiences as part of a larger narrative. For instance, if someone argues with a close friend, they might recognize it as one challenging moment in a long journey of growth and understanding, rather than an automatically relationship-ending event.

When living a cognitively complex life, people don’t shy away from ambiguity or contradiction. They embrace the complexities of life, whether through their relationships, work, or everyday encounters. These individuals reflect deeply on their experiences, recognize the interconnectedness of events, and understand that people’s actions are rarely one-dimensional.

If you’ve ever reflected on a complicated romantic relationship —considering not just the good and bad moments but also how both have contributed to your personal growth—you were engaging in cognitively complex thinking. You might see the relationship as a source of joy, challenge, and learning, appreciating it for all its intricacies.

Leading a psychologically rich life doesn’t mean avoiding pain or difficulty—instead, it’s about seeing the value in experiences that challenge existing beliefs and contain both positive and negative emotions.

“On their deathbed, a person who has led a happy life might say, ‘I had fun!’ A person who has led a meaningful life might say, ‘I made a difference!’ And a person who has led a psychologically rich life might say, ‘What a journey!’” explain the researchers of a 2022 study on the subject.

The richness of this experience comes from being able to see the world in all its multifaceted beauty and embracing the challenges and contradictions that come with it. Why not open yourself up to new experiences and perspectives? The journey, with all its twists and turns, is truly worth it.

A version of this post also appears on Forbes.com.

Mark Travers, Ph.D., is an American psychologist with degrees from Cornell University and the University of Colorado Boulder.

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