Yes, you read that right! Designing your life is what I'm going to talk to you about today. Since becoming chronically ill, I've had to drastically change my life. Difficult? Yes. Would I want it any other way? No!
I see it happening so often around me—with friends, the people I coach, or through the questions I receive on social media: not arranging your life properly to meet your needs. This blog offers 5 tips to better align your life.
moreWe have to do so much
No, you're just thinking that! We always think we have so much to do, but nothing could be further from the truth. You're thinking: that doesn't bother me. Well? Do you recognize anything in these examples?
- I have to answer that email, I received it yesterday
- I really have to text or call Bella now, she probably won't think...
- Piet's birthday is almost here, I have to go there
- The laundry really needs to be folded and, oh yeah! Vacuuming also needs to be done
- We should do something fun
Sound familiar? Then read on!
Tip 1: Be critical of your 'musts'
We all do it, yes, me too. Even though I've been working on adjusting my life for years, "musts" still creep in. I have to answer emails, I have to take the dogs for a long walk or they won't like it, I have to paint something new or people (and followers) won't like me anymore... I could go on and on. Not nice, because you really don't have to do that much! For example, I've discovered that it's perfectly fine to only read and answer your email twice a week, it's perfectly fine to skip birthday parties, and it's perfectly fine to procrastinate on household chores. Oh yeah, and doing something fun can also be just watching a movie on the couch, or getting that fun board game out again!
In any case, be critical of your "must-dos"; you often don't even realize they're there. Just this morning, someone said to me: "Why not post some 'old' work on Instagram every now and then? It's still super fun!" Uh... I have no idea, but I had it in my head that I should create something new every week. It's creeping in!
Tip 2: Be assertive
Saying no, being clear, and indicating what would be more comfortable for you. Not the easiest task, but something that creates a tremendous amount of freedom and self-confidence. Because when you take good care of yourself by expressing yourself and acting on your needs, your self-confidence grows!
Tip 3: What could be more efficient?
A lot of things could simply be easier. For example, I've chosen to ship orders only twice a week (currently). I also clearly communicate that I sleep between 1 and 3 pm, so I don't have any appointments and friends and family don't bother me. Cooking is incredibly demanding, so on the days I pack orders (which is also quite demanding), Edwin cooks. There are so many ways to make everything simpler and more efficient!
Tip 4: your ideal life
All that pruning in your life is useful, but where are you going? What do you want your life to look like? It's a good idea to take some time to consider that. For example, I knew I didn't want to live a rushed life anymore, I didn't want to push myself beyond my limits, and above all, I wanted to enjoy life. Vague? Perhaps, but by asking myself with every choice I make whether it contributes to my ideal life, it actually always points me in the right direction!
Tip 5: Dive deeper
You often don't see exactly how things could be different. It's wonderful to delve deeper into that. Whether you hire a coach, read a good book, or use my wonderful card deck "Messages from the Woods," the key is to be consciously engaged. It's not just a matter of thinking once and then everything is different; it's a process!
Need help?
I've said it before! How about a wonderful set of inspirational cards? Animals from the forest will tell you what you need, encourage reflection, and guide you toward deeper understanding. You'll continue to develop and move forward, and this, combined with all the tips, will create space to create the life that suits you!
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