Life is a series of experiences, right? On our life journey, some experiences are wonderful while others- not so much. The truth is that all of our life experiences, positive or negative, contribute to the person who we are today. For example, how did you spend your childhood? I spent my childhood playing with friends outside. We built fortes, we sled down hills, we climbed, and we imagined. This awesome experience gave me the love for outdoor activities, sunny days, friendships and creativity that I have today. I just had to dig for it to find it again!
In the spirit of increased happiness and balance in life, this year, how about consciously creating more positive experiences for yourself? Become more aware of what you truly enjoy, what gives you energy… what makes you smile. One of my clients is created an experience with her daughter by organizing old family photos to preserve digitally. They are enjoying learning about past generations and spending time together.
Creating experiences for yourself eliminates the day in and day out routine we all at risk of falling into, especially this time of year. This intentional act will allow you to evolve and grow as a person. That is what we are supposed to do while we are here on this planet! The coaching process helps bring experience ideas to light for us. It allows us to uncover what has been lost or out of sight while creating a plan for renewed happiness and greater purpose.
Create new experiences this year in 4 steps:
Brainstorm what types of experiences you want to have. Don’t overthink it! It can be a simple yet powerful experience, such as trying new restaurants, taking a day trip, setting a time to play a game with your child regularly (they won’t forget it), taking nature photos, or seeing a play. A friend of mine is committed to visiting more state parks this year.
Make a conscious commitment to create the experiences for yourself. This means telling a friend, spouse, child, colleague, or coach to help hold you accountable. Kids really do hold you to your word.
Put the plan into action. Even if you only have one experience in mind at this time, make a plan (especially if it includes others), set a date and time, and make arrangements for it to happen. Chances of not following through are greater-if you do not set a date.
Soak in the experience. Don’t just check it off the list. I find it takes practice to be in the moment, not thinking about the past or future…just what is in right in front of you. It is truly rewarding. Writing about an experience lets me think about why I truly enjoyed it and motivates me to do it again, or even create a new one.
Share your new found experiences with others. Happiness is contagious, and when you share how happy an experience made you feel, others want that same feeling too. Sharing joy is always a good thing!
Plain and simple, you are in charge of your life. You have the freedom to choose the experiences you wish to have… and the freedom of how to respond to and learn from the experiences that come unexpectedly. Experiences shape our minds, bodies and spirits. What experiences have you had lately that you really enjoyed?
Here’s one experience, book a complimentary coaching session with me to discover more about you!
