Have you ever asked yourself “What am I going to do with the rest of my life?”
I can’t answer this question for anyone other than myself but offer you some tips on how to work it out.
Often, when faced with a major life decision, we tend to either take the first choice that presents or allow circumstances to choose for us – putting off the decision until something happens. This is not a great way to get what you want out of life. What if you had some sort of map to help know which path to follow or pass by?
Below are five questions that you could ask yourself before choosing a path.
What does success mean to me?
Be very specific. “I want to be rich,” is not an answer – just what does “rich” mean, anyway? Are you thinking of a set number? And if so, why? Or is the term “rich” a substitute for certain freedoms or opportunities that you view as coming only with money?
Some alternatives to “I want to be rich,” might be: “I want to have enough income to pay my bills without strain, with time and money left for travel,” or “I want to be able to live comfortably,” or “I want to volunteer or play golf 1 day a week”.
Come up with at least three answers to the question of what success means to you personally, with each one reflecting a different part of what you feel makes a successful life. Keep the money issue to just one statement, as things like personal fulfillment, spiritual meaning and healthy relationship are rarely solved by money.
One of the biggest obstacles to success is that most of us have never thought what that means to us, apart from fame or fortune. Knowing what success means to you allows you to make better choices.
What are my non-negotiable needs?
List all the things that you envision as must have of a successful and enjoyable life. Family, travel, no debt, great job, social status, spiritual involvement, love, fun, comfort. Knowing what you are not willing to do without makes your choices clearer.
What are my non-negotiable boundaries?
List all the things that you absolutely do not want in your life. If working indoors all day drains you, put that down. If you hate the cold (or the heat), add that to the list. If like or dislike noise or quietness note that. By knowing what you will not tolerate, many choices become easier to make. Plus, it allows you to set down clear rules about who and what you will let into your life and the standards of behaviour you will, and will not, tolerate.
What are my key values?
Spend some time searching your soul to come up with a list of your basic values, creating a life around which would make you the person you want to be and allow you to live the life you want to live. Are you the type who values honesty, clean/green living and a deep love of nature above all things? Or are you more content being at home with friends and family? Do you like helping people? Knowing what you stand for is a vital for good decision-making.
What do I want to be remembered for?
What legacy do you want to leave here when die? What do you want people to say about your life and you as a person? What do you want to be known for? What would your obituary to say about you? Knowing where you want to end up helps choosing the path and progress to get there easier.