HOW DO YOU KNOW IT’S TIME FOR A LIFESTYLE CHANGE?

While habit and routine can be a comforting and supportive aspect of life, it can easily become stultifying, and there are points at which we might realise we’ve become so engrossed in habit we’ve lost sight of the bigger picture. If you’re experiencing any of the following, maybe it’s time to rethink where you’re headed and how you’re getting there:

Do You Feel Valued?

You feel unappreciated. Maybe it’s because there are people in your family, friendship circle or at work who don’t value or respect you, or maybe it’s because the qualities you’re proud of aren’t being given an opportunity to come to the fore. Ben and Jerry’s ice cream business is a good example of forging a future based on a clear distinction between what you do and don’t like. The two mottos of the company are "Business has a responsibility to give back to the community" (Ben), and 'If it's not fun, why do it' (Jerry). If you had a think up a motto for how you live your life, what would it be? Are you upholding it? Make a lists of the traits and abilities you like most about yourself; how can you make opportunities in your work or home life to use them?

Is Stress Consuming Your Life?

Stressed, anxious, exhausted? Stress means one of two things; either there’s too much on your plate that you’re not able to deal with, or the method that you deal with stress needs an overhaul. Often, both are true. Learning to say no is one of the most vital skills you can ever develop. Keeping your priorities in order means the things you need to decline will be more apparent, which will give you the confidence to turn down the people who are preying on your time. Make a list of your priorities; how much time are you dedicating to the things which are most important to you? What can you let go of so that you can allocate more time to the things you need?

How Do You Feel About Your Body?

If you spend time glowering at the face or body in the mirror in front of you, chances are its your life you’re unhappy with rather than your appearance. Worrying excessively about how you look and harbouring negative thoughts about your body indicates a general dissatisfaction with your life and a broader insecurity about the judgment of others. People who are truly contented with their lives don’t spend time agonising over the size of their nose or their bum, but prioritise good health over appearance and then get on with the rest of their lives; remember to celebrate International No Diet day on May 5th.

Do Crowds Make You Nervous?

If you’re angry at and afraid of strangers, it’s time to rethink where you’re at. A stranger’s just a friend you haven’t met, and if you find yourself swearing at them from the inside of your car, or averting your eyes from theirs on the street, consider what kind of unfair and neurotic expectations you are wielding against them. Trust a little, live a little. Although expecting the worst means you won’t be disappointed, it also means you’ll be a walking storm cloud.

By Kate Cole