7 Life Lessons I Live By

Happiness can be a tricky thing to pin down. We all strive for it, but sometimes, it feels like we're running in circles trying to figure out what truly makes us happy. We chase after things like success, fitness, or status, only to realize that they don't always bring the joy we hoped for. Meanwhile, we can make ourselves miserable by stressing over things we can't control or holding onto grudges.

I may not have all the answers to life's big questions, but I've picked up a few valuable lessons along the way that have helped me find a little more happiness. Here's what I've learned:

1. Let bygones be bygones

Don't let yesterday's mistakes steal today's sunshine. We all have a closet full of past selves we might prefer to keep hidden. But instead of dwelling on past mistakes or hurts, try to make peace with them. You can't change what's happened, but you can choose to move forward. Let your past be a lesson, not a weight around your ankles.

2. Time heals everything

It's true what they say: time is a great healer. Sometimes, it feels like everything is falling apart, and you just want to fix it all at once. But remember, healing takes time. It's okay to let things settle and mend slowly. Patience is key, even if it feels like you're waiting forever. Your heart and mind will thank you for it.

3. Let them think what they want

Let's face it—everyone has an opinion, and not all of them are helpful. Don't let other people's thoughts dictate how you feel about yourself. Instead, focus on being true to who you are. Be unbothered if you must. The right people will appreciate you for it, and those who don't? Well, they're not worth your energy.

4. Don’t overthink it

Overthinking can be like a hamster wheel—you keep running but go nowhere. If you find yourself trapped in a cycle of endless thoughts, take a step back. Sometimes, it's better to let things unfold naturally rather than obsessing over every detail. And if emotions are running high, it's okay to take a break and come back with a clearer mind.

5. Stay in your lane

Don't compare your life to others. The only person you should be trying to outdo is yesterday's version of yourself. Comparing yourself to others is a joy-killer. Celebrate your own achievements and progress instead. Every day is a new chance to grow and improve, so focus on that.

6. You create your own happiness

You're in charge. No one else can make you happy. Your happiness is in your hands. Don't let others dictate what should bring you joy. Discover what truly makes you happy and embrace it. After all, you're the CEO of your own happiness, so don't give that power away!

How I've learned to stop giving people power over me:

• Live by my values — When I know what's important to me, I care less about following the crowd or what others think. It's easier to stay true to myself when I'm clear on my values.

• Forgive and move on — Holding onto grudges only drags me down, not the other person. I've learned that wasting time and energy on past hurts doesn't do me any good. 

• Don't base my self-worth on others — If I rely on others for approval, they'll always have some power over me. My self-worth should come from within, not from what others think.

• Set healthy boundaries — I make it a point to say no when I need to, speak up, and ask for what I need. When people cross my boundaries, I stick to clear consequences.

• Don't waste my energy — Especially on people who aren't worth it. The more time I give them, the more they take up space in my life. It's just not worth it.

7. Live with gratitude

Take a moment to appreciate the good things in your life. Gratitude can shift your perspective and make you realize just how much you have. When you focus on what you're thankful for, you'll find that you're less concerned with what you don't have. To me, appreciating the small things makes life feel much richer. Gratitude even make my heart a little lighter and my smile a little brighter!

What life lessons do you live by to keep your happiness in check?