I have turned 49 today and have learned so many lessons in the past five decades. The places I have lived, the people I have met, the books I have read. The lows and the highs, the ups and downs. I thought of sharing some of my thoughts/ tips with you.
Enjoy the little things. Don’t wait for big moments, take a dull moment and make it special. A new recipe, a new hobby, fancy dinner, a day out with friends. You have unlimited options.
Try your best. No matter what you are doing. Do it with passion. As they say, do small things with great love. It’s all about the journey and not the end.
Don’t focus on wining an argument. Instead focus on winning your relationships. Don’t get carried away with the heat of the argument, pause and reflect and then give your response.
There is one relationship that can be a game changer for you: your bond with the Almighty, the faith in the unseen. If He becomes your friend, do you even need anything else? Talk to him in hardship and in ease. He promised ‘remember me and I shall remember you’ and He keeps his promises. Just be particular about namaz ( salat/ prayer) Do it regularly even if you can’t focus. Your presence in that register can help nourish your soul.
It you are not happy with your life, do something. Don’t just sit and crib about it. You are more powerful than your negative thoughts. Take over the reins of your life. Sort out the details. Start with small changes and then move to the bigger challenges. Be it career or relationships, you can always make a difference by making the right decision at the right time.
‘People don’t decide their futures, they decide their habits and their habits decide their future’. Get into a routine. Plan your day. All you need is symmetry in your day. Sleep and wake up at the same time for 10 days and check your productivity.
It’s never too late to chase a new dream. Is there any hobby you want to pursue? A new small business idea? A degree? Don’t procrastinate and start now! You will thank me later.
Always communicate clearly. Keeping your thoughts to yourself may lead to passive aggressive behavior and that’s not helpful in relationships.
Forgive yourself for all that you have done, intentionally and unintentionally. We don’t talk about it as much but it’s important. This is the pillar of self care. You have to be compassionate with your self.
Nostalgia is a seductive liar. It forces us to stay in the past. Be present and move on. The art of life is to live in the present moment. Find joy today and now.
