A MEANINGFUL LIFE
Disclaimer: Nothing in this article constitutes providing medical advice.
“It is your birth right to be happy, successful and fulfilled” (Ifa 4th Commandment)
According to economist Ha-Joon Chang in rich countries people are expected to be happier. They earn more money but are unhappy at work despite the large salaries, and this is because work is now more stressful. In Britain for instance, the income has increased over years and in 2017 for instance it was 20% higher than around 1975, so why are people less happy? It is because of work-related stress plus everything experienced in the workplace potentially affects the psychology (mental), wellbeing, physical body, identity, self-worth, and fulfilment.
“If you don’t think your anxiety, depression, sadness and stress impact your physical health, think again. All of these emotions trigger chemical reactions in your body, which can lead to inflammation and a weakened immune system. Learn how to cope, sweet friend. There will always be dark days” (Kris Carr)
Therefore, anyone stressed or unhappy at work could engage in intrapreneurially enhanced projects or start a business part-time and gradually grow to eventual freedom. Happiness is a state of mind considered within your control. Although when the stressful shenanigans hit the fan, it is challenging to remain happy or positive.
“One of the best pieces of advice I ever got was …. He told me to go slow to go fast. I think that applies to everything in life. We live as though there aren’t enough hours in the day but if we do each thing calmly and carefully we will get it done quicker and with much less stress” (Viggo Mortensen)
Furthermore, stress due to working long hours is often the companion of the entrepreneur. This is why entrepreneurs do what they are passionate about to reduces anxiety levels. When you love what you do your body has an amazing capacity to keep going even when tired. The limits of the world affect the body, but the mind is an unlimited treasure island which has no limits. This is a form of mindfulness. Adam Braun supports that “We all have those things that even in the midst of stress and disarray, they energize us and give us renewed strength and purpose. These are our passions”.
“Stress is an important dragon to slay – or at least tame – in your life” (Marilu Henner)
FEED THE MIND POSITIVES NOT FAKE NEWS
“The truth is that there is no actual stress or anxiety in the world; it’s your thoughts that create these false beliefs. You can’t package stress, touch it, or see it. There are only people engaged in stressful thinking” (Wayne Dyer)
Learn to push your body and mind with care. It is said the attitude toward tasks and people, including how we deal with pressure is what creates stress. Hence, feed the mind creativity and positives, feed the body healthy alkaline food and exercise to build stamina and endurance. Maya Angelou said if you can’t change something then change how you think about it. Since, the cause of stress is related to how we process and react to information. Ignore any negativity, the lies, misrepresentations and falsehoods, about you or others, even those published in supposed prestigious mediums and by societal institutions. An author wrote a book called “The life changing Magic of not giving a f*ck”. We haven’t read it but Halle Berry had a good laugh citing how it allows one to get past issues.
“Eliminate regret from your life heal yourself. Every regret, every mournful thought, takes so much out of your life. It is force used to pile on more misery.(Prentice Mulford)
Wallace D Wattles advices to keep away from pessimistic literature, images and places which cloud wealth imagery attracting the bad. This is an extremely challenging habit to cultivate but imperative. Apparently, we need to only read positive literature that allows for productive creation rather than concentrate and rely on negative imagery or discussions which scientifically guarantee poverty (literal and figurative). Wattles says when we focus on positives we positively guarantee riches. Therefore, exclude and silence the noise, focus only on what you can resolve and create your destiny.
A PURPOSEFUL & MEANINGFUL LIFE
“If you are working on something exciting that you really care about, you don’t have to be pushed. The vision pulls you” (Steve Jobs)
Consequently, ‘as humans the core of our existence is not just work, work and work, it is to find our purpose’. It is said that to be happier discover and pursue your purpose. Have positive relationships and tie your expectations to goals rather than to people. Read, acquire independent knowledge, achieve personal goals and life will have more meaning. A meaningful life is achievable through purpose and having a good balance of accomplished mind (personal), body (work), and soul (family) goals. These increase self-esteem, contentment, and happiness leading to a more meaningful life.
“Look at the sky. We are not alone. The whole universe is friendly to us and conspires only to give the best to those who dream and work” (A. P. J. Abdul Kalam)
Disclaimer: This blog is not providing any medical advice. Every possible effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in this article is accurate. While every precaution has been taken in the research but it is advised that names, places, narratives and quotes be independently confirmed by the reader. The publisher and the author cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions, however caused. The editor, publisher or author can accept no responsibility for loss or damage occasioned to any person acting, or refraining from action, as a result of the material in this publication.