Live Your Best Life

There’s this tug of war happening in my heart… it’s been going on for over a decade now.

This tension between who I am and who I want to be.

There was a time when I knew exactly what I wanted and how I was going to get there. But that dream was not to be.

I do have a decent work at home job that lets me earn a part-time income and be home for my family 24/7.

But there’s still this feeling that I need to do more, be more…

Some dissatisfaction in my life may be resolved if I find a new passion or a dream to pursue. Yet, there are other empty places that life in this world just cannot fulfill.

“If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.”

C. S. Lewis

For many years, I waited in expectation… thinking God would plant a new dream in my heart. It hasn’t happened yet.

But something beautiful has happened in the meantime… I’ve learned to lean in closer to God and be more dependent on Him, trusting Him to guide me one day at a time.

So, I can either wallow in self-pity and wish I was doing more with my life. Or I can choose to live my best life where I am now, with what God has so graciously given me.

Here’s how I’m doing that, and how you can too.

Remain Rooted in Christ

I’ve had my share of dark days… when I just want to sulk around the house, or crawl into bed and cry my heart out.

It’s God’s Word that has always reached the depths of my darkness and pulled me out. Making my quiet time a priority has helped me set the tone for my days.

The life-saving habit of studying the Bible keeps me on the right track, even when I’m veering off course.

Invest in Yourself

I have friends who don’t hesitate to spend money on something they want – be it shopping, learning or traveling.

Since we’re on a rather strict, self-imposed budget, I’m always hesitant to spend money on myself. But there’s something more valuable I CAN invest… my time!

Here are some ways I’ve tried to invest time in my own wellbeing this year:

• 20-30 minute workouts at least 2 – 3 times a week
• Reading books/articles that uplift and empower
• Listening to inspirational podcasts/audiobooks
• Resurrecting an old hobby (or learning a new one)
• Journaling as a means to process my thoughts
• Capturing snapshots of everyday life
• Impromptu breaks with the family – even if it’s to the nearest tea shop

Do What Makes You Happy

I know this probably sounds shallow and vain, but it has been a lifesaver on days when I’m just overwhelmed with life.

I’ve been guilty of cutting homework time short and just watching a movie with the kids. My husband and I went on quite a few midweek lunch dates this year because that’s the only time that worked for us.

Sometimes, it’s ok to let the obligations of real life slide and just do something that will make you happy.

“Live your best life.” It’s a term we hear everywhere.

For some, it means pursuing their dreams, reaching new heights and conquering the world.

For others, it might mean setting aside old dreams, remaining in the plains and serving the world right where they are.

Whichever the Lord leads us to, may we be able to do it wholeheartedly and with no regrets.

Photo by Paula Brustur on Unsplash