Tips For Finding More Meaning In Life

There have been more challenges in Australia and across the globe in 2020 than any of us could have imagined. Drought, bush fire, floods and now this global pandemic has taken a physical, emotional and economic toll on so many.

So how can we find happiness or meaning in our lives even when things seem so challenging?

Here are some ideas that might help you feel connected to meaning, even when things don’t feel like they make much sense.

Focus on helping others.

When we give our time or attention or support to other people in our lives, or contribute to a cause that is greater than ourselves, firstly and most importantly it immediately takes our focus away from the things that aren't as we would like them to be in our own life. Adding value to the lives of those we love, or those we know or might never meet, also taps us into motivation, drive, purpose, value, and gratitude which is really the gift and far outweighs the effort. If I could only share one tip, this would be it.

Appreciate the simple joys.

Anyone who knows our work at Positive Living Skills would have heard of 'highlights'. These are the simple pleasures that are available to just about all of us on any given day. A cool glass of water on a hot day, a smile with a friend (even through the phone), the touch of a soft blanket or the warmth of the sun. When we fully experience these moments and 'take them in', we are experiencing happiness and we can build the neural networks in our brain so we notice them more easily and feel them more deeply next time.

The little things really are the big things.

Take yourself lightly.

Even when times are tough, if we can take ourselves lightly and allow ourselves to smile and laugh more (especially at ourselves) we give others permission to do the same, and smiling and laughing releases feel-good hormones like dopamine, endorphins and serotonin. These signal your body that you’re happy, and in turn, you feel happier.

Keep Learning.

No matter your age or life situation, we can all keep learning. There is so much to learn, and when we maintain our curiosity, we are keeping meaning alive in our lives. It might just be learning more about the world through watching a documentary. Learning keeps our mind sharp, engaged and open, which is why supporting children to develop a growth mindset is such an important part of the PLS programs.

Focus on Progress.

When we are wanting to achieve something, we are encouraged to keep our eye on the outcome we want and generally we have a method or a way to get there. Inevitably though the curve balls will be thrown which can throw us off course.

What really helps us to feel happier is to focus on the PROGRESS we are making rather than only measuring the outcomes. So important for anyone who wants to achieve a goal, from physical recovery to business success.

"If you want to have ongoing joy and fulfillment in your life, the secret is just one word – progress." Tony Robbins.

Jo Devin, Co-founder, Positive Living Skills www.positivelivingskills.com.au