One of the key elements of a flourishing, fulfilling life is a sense of purpose. Discovering passions and pursuing important goals ultimately leads to a life of authentic happiness. As a holistic bioenergetic coach in Abu Dhabi, I’ve received thousands of questions from people in search of fulfilment, happiness, and meaning. They often express frustration that bubbles over from a variety of sources. Many times, they aren’t sure of what they really want in life or they’re confused about which path to choose to pursue their dreams. At the root of all these frustrations is a misunderstanding about who they are.
The greatest and most important adventure of our lives is discovering our true selves.
How well do you really know yourself? How can you live a more authentic, meaningful, and fulfilling life, if you can’t answer that question? Knowing ourselves at the deepest, most genuine level is a life-long process. But, the more deliberate we are about it, the more we can grow and evolve consciously.
Even though understanding ourselves is an evolutionary journey, there is one key piece we must commit to before starting – self-acceptance.
Fully accept yourself. Flaws and all.
Self-acceptance is essential. Keep in mind, however, self-acceptance is not the same as self-esteem. Self-esteem refers specifically to how we feel about our own worth. Alternatively, self-acceptance encompasses a far more global affirmation of self. Self-acceptance is about making peace with every part of who we are, both light and dark. When we’re self-accepting, we choose to appreciate all facets of ourselves whether they’re positive or negative.
Fulfillment is a mindset. Long-lasting happiness is found when you can reflect and find contentment.
We all live our lives trying to be successful, but the definition of success varies from person to person. For some, success is about achieving wealth or having a beautiful family. Others view success as reaching a level of fame or recognition. While these all may be true, there’s so much more to it. Our sole mission in life is to be fulfilled. What’s important is that you uncover your own way to find success, peace and satisfaction from within.
The most important thing to understand about happiness, fulfillment and feelings of accomplishment is that they never come from the outside. They have to be generated on the inside.
So, how do you get there? It’s about staying focused and constantly looking for what sparks passion and emotion. It’s about creating experiences of all different kinds that add meaning to life.
Here are some additional strategies:
1. Surround yourself with positivity.
A great deal of your happiness can be affected by your environment.
2. Be present.
If you want more happiness and fulfillment, you need to pay attention to where it already exists in your life. Then deliberately choose more of it.
3. Challenge yourself to be your best.
Remember that progress measured in inches is just as valuable as progress measured in yards! If that means consulting with a Life Coach or Success and Leadership Counselor, it’s worth a shot.
4. Let go of baggage.
Whether it is old emotions or clothes that don’t fit, free yourself from what is no longer serving you.
5. Surround yourself with beauty.
Your environment is one of the most powerful influences on your energy, your mood, your creativity, and your fulfillment.
6. Take time to meditate.
When you meditate on a regular basis, you cultivate inner calm and peace — not just during your meditation sessions, but as you go about your daily activities.
7. Help others.
A great way to feel fulfilled is to share what you can with others. This can include time, money, or skills.
8. Acknowledge those who matter.
Years go by so fast. It’s easy to let time slip away without sending some words of love and appreciation to those who support you.
Focus on activities and people that are in alignment with yourself, your goals, and your values. The more you shift your attention to the things that bring you happiness, the more fulfilled you will be. For me that is my family and my coaching business.
