Katharina Buczek
In order to lead a more meaningful life, you have to first get to the bottom of what is meaningful to you. Stop looking to other people in your social circle or online for the answers, and quit feeling as though you have to follow in their footsteps to achieve “happiness.”
Instead, get honest with yourself and ask the hard questions. What is most important to you in life? What do you stand for? What do you value?
Once you have a clearer understanding of your own motivations and drivers, you can start to make decisions that align with your values– whether that be showing up to help out at the soup kitchen on Sundays and giving back to those in need or booking a one-way ticket to Europe and living out your nomadic aspirations.
In addition to being self-aware and listening to your own intrinsic wants and needs, leading a more meaningful life is also easier when you prioritize relationships.
As humans, we revel in connection and thrive in groups. The quality of our relationships can also significantly impact our overall mental health.
So, be sure to let go of any toxic relationships or acquaintances who no longer serve your best interest.
Instead, focus on nourishing meaningful connections with loved ones, friends, and strangers. By deepening your social roots in your community, you will not only be helping yourself– but you will also become a trusted supporter and friend. And what’s more meaningful than that?
Finally, in the insatiable search for happiness, too many people refuse to step outside of their comfort zones. We have all fallen victim to this before, too– thinking we have all the answers and know exactly what would bring us joy.
The truth is, though, that we will never gain more meaning or fulfillment from cornering ourselves into this tiny box. We have to break down the walls, try out new things, and say to hell with our fears.
Trust me: I know firsthand how terrifying it can be to take risks and conquer your fears. For some reason, I thought it would be an awesome idea to go skydiving with some friends a few years ago despite my crippling fear of heights.
I’m not going to pretend the whole experience was sunshine and rainbows, either. Once we ascended 10,000 feet into the sky and my instructor opened the door, my heart was in my stomach. All I could see were clouds and the faint curve of the Earth.
