Do you find yourself beating yourself up because you feel like you have let everyone down? More importantly, have you left yourself down? You may feel like your life is completely out of your control. If you are caught in a downward spiral because of the choices you have made, it is hard to see a way to stop that free fall. Don’t give up hope. You have the power to turn your life around. Start small with simple changes. Remember Lao Tzu’s famous words, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” If you start using the following keys in your life, you can find your way to becoming a better person.
Become Drug and Alcohol-Free
If substance abuse is holding you back, you need to break those chains. Several drug detox programs are available across the country to give you the support system you need to overcome this challenge. Addiction is a steep mountain to climb. Try it on your own and you’ll find that it’s a slippery slope that will send you back to the bottom. Surround yourself with the right group of caring, skilled professionals to make it to the top.
Give Your Body the Fuel it Needs to Succeed
Think of food as your fuel. You want to run on premium, not the cheap stuff. Choose balanced, healthy meals that will give you good nutrition. You will have more energy. You’ll be able to get your weight on track. You can also improve your overall well-being.
Start Exercising Regularly
If you haven’t kept your body moving, now is the time to start. What is in motion will stay in motion. Regular physical activity will help you to stay strong and flexible. Try new things. Find something you really enjoy. It could be a daily walk with your dog. You might love going on hikes. Dig up your bicycle. Find a friend who likes to jog. Choose something that keeps you coming back for more. You’ll feel better for it.
See Your Doctor at Least Once a Year
Your primary care doctor is on your side. It’s your physician’s job to screen you for any conditions that could be a concern. Your annual physical is a good way to make sure everything is on track. Think of the old saying that says prevention is the best kind of medicine you could ever have. If you have a problem, nip it in the bud. Listen to your body and make an appointment. Your doctor will help you to find solutions.
Find a Job that is Fulfilling
If you aren’t happy with your job, find a new one. You don’t have to stick with something that isn’t enriching your life. Take a workshop that will give you the skills you need to try something new. Enroll in college to get on a career path you have always wanted. If an advanced education isn’t going to work for you, try different lines of work until one grabs you. Think about going into your own business. Consider volunteer work if there is a cause that really matters to you. Your life needs to be rich in experiences that will make you happy. You are in charge of figuring out what they are so you can go after them. The choice is yours. Now is your time to make your life everything you want it to be. Don’t stop trying until you get there.