12 Elements of Living a Great Life

I have been thinking quite a lot about what it takes to live a great life. So in answer to my questions, the Universe decided to give me a few answers. This information recently woke me up one morning, I jotted it down, and I've decided to share it with my friends. My father told me on more than one occasion that I "have education, but needed direction." I have often asked others for "direction" before asking for other advice, so I hope these elements of living a great life will give you some "direction."

1. Know that there is a power higher than man. This element of knowing has given me hope when times have been extremely troublesome. To know that another human does not have the final word in my outcome is very comforting.

2. Choose to live with a more positive attitude. Despite the circumstances, if you can look for the positive rather than the negative, your confidence will grow and your strength to hold on will increase.

3. Find a new passion. If the activities you have been struggling with have become a burden, perhaps a change or pursuit of another avenue is in order.

4. Return to school or start a business. Don't be afraid to return to something you have wanted or wished to do. No matter what the age or length of absence, you can be refreshed by going back to a dream left unfinished.

5. Mentor a young person or find a mentor for yourself. Whether you are receiving or giving help, your knowledge base will be increased, and your pleasure of the subject will be more fulfilling.

6. Get active in your community. The opportunities to give back are increasing with each day. Being a part of the community of man is both rewarding and worthwhile.

7. Take charge of your health. There is so much information online, find information so that you can participate in your health along with your doctor and other professionals. Being prepared with comprehensive information allows you to ask questions and make informed decisions about your own body.

8. Learn something new every day. No matter how big or small, everything you learn will add to the enrichment of your life.

9. Share your lessons learned from life's experiences. I believe this is a very import element of living a great life; to share what you have learned with someone else. We may have the same experiences, but learn different lessons. The human race evolves with the knowledge of the generations before.

10. Be kind to the Earth. We need to think more conscientiously about our environment as a whole and strive to be a good neighbor.

11. Say "I love you" to someone at least once a day. When you give love, you get it back and it makes you feel good.

12. Learn to forgive yourself and others. This is very important to living a great life. Carrying around things left undone become more unbearable each day. If you are given the chance to awake each morning, be grateful for what you have, lighten your load and try to lighten that of others. Give yourself permission to free yourself and someone else. You won't regret it.

I won't say my life is perfect or happy 24-7, but if you were to ask me for advice, I would point you in the "direction" of these 12 elements which have helped me to live a life that's great.