10 Guiding Principles to Live Your Best Life Now!

I've heard it said that "life is a game." And I love the act of winning!

With this in mind, I recognize that as with all games, winning requires a strategic approach and a desire to put forth our best. Which is why we must be intentional in our efforts, if we want to reap optimal results, reach our dreams and live with fewer regrets in this game called life.

There's no better time than now. Amid the current pandemic we have little choice but to acknowledge how precious each day is. In the face of sobering weekly statistics, we are reminded that our stay on earth is not eternal.

This has been revealed to me on a very personal level as I have painfully witnessed the unexpected deaths of family members and close friends, over the last few years (for various reasons). Though death is inevitable, we still can choose to live with passion; purpose; and meaning while we are here.

Accordingly, these 10 principles serve as my "north star" to guide my journey. I recommend the same for you.

Listed below, not necessarily in any type of order of importance…

1. WHEN PEOPLE SHOW YOU WHO THEY ARE, BELIEVE THEM.

Many times, in an effort to see the good in people, we wear “blinders.” We overlook the major character flaws; the shabby treatment; the friendship breaches. We fail to take inventory. We make excuses for others. Bad idea. Though it’s good to show grace and allow for human imperfections, it’s important to be realistic as well. For example, if a man is demeaning to his mother or cruel to animals, those red-flags should not be ignored. Leave “make believe” to fairy-tales. Better safe than sorry.

2. CHOOSE YOUR FRIENDS WISELY.

“A friend in need is a friend indeed.” Of all my personal blessings, my friendships are among my most cherished. I am fortunate to have friends from different races, age groups, belief systems and interests. Most of whom I have had as buddies for decades. To me, friends are like “shock absorbers” on the sometimes bumpy road of life. And I take great care in cultivating and maintaining these relationships. Periodically, I also perform a “friendship audit” where I assess and determine those folks who no longer seem to value (and reciprocate) the give and take that friendship requires and I gradually break ties as nicely as possible. In the words of pastor Joel Osteen: “Go where you’re appreciated, not just tolerated.”

3. INSANITY IS DOING THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER AND EXPECTING DIFFERENT RESULTS.

I am a firm believer in learning and heeding life’s lessons. Which is why I am often baffled with friends, family members, associates, etc. who do the same things over repeatedly, even when it is not in their best interest to do so. It seems that perhaps their ego won’t allow them to face being wrong. STOP. THE. MADNESS.

Being wrong doesn't make you stupid. It just means you should re-evaluate.

For example, women who keep choosing the same patterns and types of men (even when they are ultimately incompatible). If a situation or person renders a bad experience for me once or twice, believe me, I change directions. It doesn't hurt to try something different.

4. YOU GET WHAT YOU GIVE.

Karma is real. When my mom passed away, not long ago, I was overwhelmed with the unexpected outpouring of support. People were so kind, generous and loving. I was deeply touched. When I shared my gratitude and disbelief with one of my college girlfriends over the phone, she simply reminded me:” Jen, you get what you give.”

5. NO ONE CAN MAKE YOU FEEL INFERIOR WITHOUT YOUR CONSENT.

This is a popular quote by Eleanor Roosevelt. And it resonates because so often we allow people’s labels and limitations to define us. We must learn not to relinquish our power and self-worth to anyone.

6. NOT EVERYONE IS HEALTHY ENOUGH TO HAVE A “FRONT ROW SEAT” IN THE ARENA OF OUR LIVES!

Years ago, I purchased a self-help book by Susan L. Taylor (editor-in-chief of Essence Magazine) called IN THE SPIRIT. In it, she provides sage lessons on love, life, personal development and emotional healing. Her words here (page 9) were so on point! Sometimes due to jealousy; sibling rivalry; competition; dysfunctions; immaturity; false friendships; and skewed perceptions, we must learn to love people from a distance--to maintain our sanity and our spirituality. Amen!

7. THE UNEXAMINED LIFE IS NOT WORTH LIVING.

Taking inventory of our lives helps us to determine how to live better; love better; evolve; move forward; and make the necessary changes to grow and reach new levels. "Knowledge is power."

AREAS TO CONSIDER:

Where would you like to be in 5 years? To live? If you had to grade your life so far what letter grade would you render? What makes you tick? From whom would you seek forgiveness? This is some food for thought as a starting point.

8. BE THE CHANGE YOU WISH TO SEE IN THE WORLD.

This sage quote, often attributed to Gandhi, reminds me that it is better to be part of the solution than part of the problem. And that we all should feel an equal obligation to make the world an improved place through our gifts and by example.

9. TOMORROW IS NOT PROMISED.

What would you do if you knew today would be your last? Would you share words of love to those you hold dearly? Would you repent? Would you spend time with a child? Would you stop procrastinating with important things? Truth is, we never know when our last day will be. Which is why each 24 hours should be valued to the utmost and not wasted.

10. PUT YOURSELF FIRST…TO LAST.

This principle is precious to me. In my later years, I have come to realize just how much sacrifice and compromising I have done throughout my life to please others. Time, talent, resources, advice, etc. Many times without acknowledgement or appreciation. Though it is good to give to others, it should never be detrimental to our own needs ; our own values; and our overall health. It’s simply not worth it. And most times, people wouldn’t do it for you. Think about it.

Follow these timely tips to make the rest of your life the best of your life!

Image credits: Pixabay.com