We know that life is going to do what it do. We know that there are highs and lows. But the sums of these highs and lows are not the sum of our life. In the everyday mundane moments, we can bring light to our world and make a life worth living.
A few ways that I Live Out Loud!
1. Travel: This is a NON-NEGOTIABLE for me! I remember a conversation that I had with my uncle last year. He asked why I didn’t just decide to save up more money now, and then when I retire when I am older, I can travel the world. That is a path that many people choose to take. That is not my choice though. For me, I am not putting off tomorrow what I can do today. Seeing the world has always been important to me and I am choosing to do it now rather than later. I have a goal for myself that I will travel to one new domestic location and one new international location each year. Last year it was San Diego, California and Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Mexico. This year it was supposed to be Denver, Colorado and Cape Town, South Africa. But you know, Covid-19. But best believe, when travel restrictions lift and borders are open back to United States citizens, I will be more than READY! Traveling for me introduces me to new perspectives, new foods, and new ways of living. It shows me just how big this world really is. It reminds me that I am forever a student. I know that traveling can be a very privileged activity. If you have the opportunity to travel, take it. And even if you think you can’t travel, take another look. There are a lot of tips and tricks that can bring traveling internationally or even domestically in the range of your budget.
2. Surround yourself with good people: I have learned that I have the influence over where I spend my time and who I spend it with! I do not have the time or energy to be around people who drain me. I want to be supported, loved, challenged, encouraged, and valued. I choose to spend my time with the people who matter most to me. I show them that they are important to me. I feel loved and I know they have my best interest at heart. And we don’t have to even be doing anything. Usually spending time together looks like FaceTime calls, but it can also be trying new restaurants, traveling, or just sitting, talking, and laughing. Find your people and enjoy life together.
3. Try new things: When is the last time you did something for the first time? I challenge myself to try new foods (at least once,) get involved in new activities, explore new neighborhoods, or even meet new people. This keeps you on your toes and with this practice life just can’t get boring.
4. Sit with Yourself: Getting to know myself deeply has been a game changer. Knowing what I need and what I want has helped me to navigate life in a more intentional way. I am no longer doing things just because it looks/sounds good to other people, but I am doing it because I want to do it! I know when I need to step away. I know when I need to be plugged in with other people. I also practice this by doing many activities alone. I know some people think this is weird, but I love it. I don’t have to worry about anybody backing out on me, and I can take the time to learn even more about myself. Solo trips, solo movie dates, solo restaurant dates, etc. These are all my jam!
5. Make time for your hobbies: Don’t get too caught up in the busyness of life that you forget about the things that make you happy! This is a huge part of Self-Care!
6. Make room for celebrations: Birthdays have always been big in my house. I know that is not the same for everyone. But you don’t have to wait until something big happens to celebrate. Celebrate waking up. Celebrate your half-birthday. Celebrate sticking to a goal. Celebrate going out with friends. Celebrate finishing a book. Celebrate your work anniversaries. Whatever is special and important to you, celebrate it. Bring your friends and family along and make it a whole thing. Or just do a small intimate celebration by yourself or with a close friend.
7. Remember the small joys: Big occurrences are fun! The small things seem to matter so much more sometimes. It’s the sun randomly shining when you thought it would be a rainy day. It’s a compliment on a cute outfit you’ve had for a while. Or even an unexpected phone call from a friend. These small moments of joy can really turn your day around.
8. Just be you: There is a special feeling that comes with just being yourself. When you take off the façade, there is a fullness that awaits you. You realize that right where you are, is where you are supposed to be. There is a peace in knowing that you are living the life meant for you.
Even in the midst of the storm. Even in the midst of the waiting. Even in the midst of the mundane, life is happening! I pray that you will find the small joys in each and every day and that these small joys will fill you up like no other. I pray that you will find what energizes you and that you give yourself permission to seek after that always. I pray that you will open your eyes to see all that God is doing in your life and the world around you in the easy times and in the most difficult moments. I pray that you are comfortable with doing life on your own terms. I pray that you are blessed with love, community, laughter, curiosity, exploration, and good health! This life that we live is beautiful and you deserve to live it to the fullest!
This is the last lesson of this series! That means tomorrow is my 25th Birthday! AHHHHH! I am literally so excited! I just know that I am birthing a NEW SEASON! I don’t know all that it holds, but I know that it will be GOOD! Tomorrow I will be living my life by celebrating! How are you living your life in this season?
Thanks for sticking with me through all TWENTY-FIVE Lessons!
Love y’all!
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