I'm a firm believer that we can create whatever life we desire, but that doesn't mean we have to wait for the external shifts to happen in our life before we are happ
y. It actually has been proven in research that those who are happier find more success, not the other way around!
So, how do we find this JOY? Well, first let's see if you're falling for any of the traps that caught me up in the past... then quickly choose a better way :)
1) Pursuing goals that aren't your own. It is common to follow the norm and do what looks good on paper, what society/our family/our culture expects of us, etc. This is a quick road to dissatisfaction. If what we're working towards does not line up with our values and what we ultimately want, we will have a harder time showing up for it as well as feel less joy for accomplishing it. It's when we hit that "is this all there is?" moment. It's a bad place to be!
Instead: Tune in. Listen to your intuition. What do you truly want? What is important to you? What would you do if no one would judge you or you knew you weren't wrong?
2) Focusing attention on the past or worrying about the future. Dwelling on what has already happened, replaying the same stories, or feeling anxious over what has not yet happened do not get us anywhere. This keeps us in a state of fear, doubts, shame, etc. These negative emotions will not take us where we want to go. Our brains are on autopilot a majority of the time. This means we must be intentional to CHOOSE different thoughts and feelings.
Instead: Focus on the present moment. Practice gratitude. Notice the details around you. Think about one next step that can move you forward. Celebrate successes along the way!
3) Comparing yourself to others. The whole world is accessible with just by clicking and a swiping. We can easily see others doing what we want to do, who are further along, or seem "better off". This comparison trap can be demoralizing!!
Instead: Filter your input and what you allow your mind to ingest. Unfollow accounts that bring you down, unsubscribe from anything that makes you judge yourself harshly, or put the phone down entirely. Let others who find success be PROOF of what is possible! Let them light the way and learn from what is working well.
Part of the action plan in my mentorship program is helping women plan JOY into their daily routine. I believe we all get to live a life we LOVE. Start today! I challenge you to schedule things you enjoy into your routines, no matter how small. (Think 5 minute dance break between work meetings, stepping outside on your lunch break, petting a dog, etc).
Tag me @yourcoachlauren so I can celebrate you making JOY a priority this week! I'd love to see what you're doing!!
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