Small steps are still progress

Do you want a better life? Big changes are difficult, and take time, but there are some simple steps you can take right now. Take many small steps, and pretty soon you're getting somewhere.
 

Steps to a better life 
The very first step is to become curious. Curious about what is it that's nudging you?Often when we feel stuck or unfulfilled, it's a sign that we are on the wrong track and it's time for a restart. Start looking for clues of what's making you feel unhappy or what doesn't fit into your life anymore. What doesn't serve you anymore? What is it that you are ready to let go of?

Then ponder on what is it that really makes you feel alive? What makes you feel really happy? Find small ways to start to make your life better. Even if you don't accomplish anything immediately, you are preparing yourself. Thinking about change sets your mind and your motivation in motion.

Seeing results will motivate you for the more difficult steps. Consider some of the following simple actions.

1. Write down things you feel ready with and you'd be willing to change. This will give you an overview of your life and the possibility of change more real, and gets your mind working. Eventually you can make this "wish list" into real goals, with a specific plan.
   
   
2. Acknowledge the good things you already have and list them. This may seem trivial, but taking note of your gifts and blessings will make you start noticing others and will lift your spirits, and this in itself will make life feel better. Being grateful for what you have sets the energy level to open up new possibilities.
   
   
3. How can you stretch yourself? How can you lean into your fears and do what scares you but that could be so rewarding? What is it that has been at the back of your mind for a long time? List a couple of things that come to your mind. How can you live your life to the fullest?
   
   
4. Breathe. If you feel stressed, learn simple stress management methods, and make them a habit. Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Press pause and go out into nature for a while. Stress is one of the biggest obstacles to a better life.  
   
   
5. Be compassionate with yourself. Always. We are here to experience life and to learn and grow. Sometimes it can be a rough journey. Be gentle and loving with yourself. Know that you are a unique once in a lifetime event and you are here for a reason.
   
   I could go on, but the point here is to get you thinking, and then begin to take whatever actions you can. If you think about the whole process of change, it'll feel overwhelming. Start with one small step today that will improve your life, and it will build momentum over time. It's time to get excited about your life.

Photo by Daniel Schludi on Unsplash