There was a time in my life when I felt like I couldn’t even remember who I was. After years where I survived scary things as a child, was in an abusive relationship, grieved a man I loved and pushed myself to the limits as a single mom I was exhausted. I just put one foot in front of the other and never even considered there might be more to life.
As a coach, I talk to women experiencing the same thing almost every day. Sometimes it’s a life transition like menopause or an empty nest that helps them realize there are better things than what they are experiencing. And sometimes their soul calls out to them asking for change. Whatever the catalyst is, they begin to realize that there is hope, they can make choices and in order to thrive they need to listen to the calling of their heart.
Creating a meaningful, heartfelt life doesn’t always mean making big drastic changes. It’s about becoming aware of what calls to you and moving in that direction. It’s often a process that continues to refine your identity and desires over the years. It’s simple, peaceful and something you relax into.
When you listen and align with what your heart wants your life becomes more meaningful. The journey may be different for each of us, but there are some things commonly included in a heartfelt life. When you are not sure how to begin, or continue, focusing on them can be a good place to start. They include:
Remember Who You Are: When I began to learn more about who I am I was able to love myself more. Yes, I’ve made mistakes and sabotaged myself over time, but I’ve also done amazing things. By observing and listening to myself I’ve learned how to understand my needs and how to do and feel better. The path I took included retreats, books, and a whole lot of journaling. I encourage you to become a student of who you are, how you trip yourself up and what you want most in life because when you discover and align with this authentic self you will feel truly whole.
Connection: Human beings need to be connected to other humans. Whether it be friends, family or community most meaningful lives include loving and interacting with others.
Service: Most everyone feels better when they are being of service to the people or community around them. There may be a cause you are passionate about or it might be simply practicing kindness, but you will find that helping others will make your life more meaningful.
Spiritual Practices: Some of you are religious and for others a spiritual practice may be as simple as standing barefoot and grounding on the earth. There are many ways to connect to what is spiritual and bigger than you. Most people find these practices help them feel more peaceful, happy and resilient in their daily lives.
Creativity: Self-expression through creativity is an exercise in tapping into your inner world. The same part of you that calls you to your meaningful life. Many of my clients become inspired or have wonderful aha moments when they allow time and space for playing creatively.
Gratitude: When you focus on what you are grateful for you will open yourself to receiving even more. Gratitude practices can rewire your brain for positivity and help you experience the voice of your heart.
Curiosity and Learning: I’ve always been curious and loved to learn, but not everyone feels the same way. I really doubt I would be living the meaningful life I have if I hadn’t focused on learning though. If learning isn’t your thing, curiosity can be a more playful path to discovering what in this world is interesting to you.
Self Care: My clients have shown me over and over again that when the going gets rough this is often the first thing to go. When you make self care a daily practice you help your body, mind and spirit stay strong, flexible and at your service. It is also a very loving and healing thing to do for yourself.
Time: Everyone needs down time. We benefit greatly by having space in our days to focus on things that matter or do nothing at all. It may be as simple as a moment to take a deep breath, time for reading or enjoying something you love.
A Simple Life: When you remove the clutter of what is not meaningful you are left with a life that is meant for you. Create space, quiet and peace in your home, mind and everything you do. It will make your life easier and more aligned with who you really are.
I wish you peace. I wish you love. And, I wish you a life that feels heartfelt and is filled with what is meaningful to you.
Journaling Prompts:
- Which of the above things feel right for me?
- What would my heartfelt life look like?
- How would it feel?
- What is my soul calling for?
- What next step am I willing to take in that direction?
- What does my heart want me to know?
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