This I Know For Certain

Each year when autumn comes, I am reminded that I am approaching another anniversary of traveling around the sun. This November will mark 42 times. I have learned many lessons. Some lessons I have learned the hard way and others through success and triumph. Looking into my own life's rear view mirror there are 12 things I know for sure.

1. You don’t need as much as you think. No amount of stuff will replace what is needed on the inside to live a fulfilled life. You most likely have what another person dreams about, so practice gratitude instead of constantly seeking more. Otherwise, the more will never be enough. ​
   
2. The best and surest way to get recentered or grounded is to spend time in nature. Whether you go for a walk in the woods, go to the beach, roam a desert trail, or spend time in a local park. Time in nature is the best reset. 
3. Your body is your business and your responsibility. No person or entity can tell you how to live in it or what to do with it, but it is your job to take care of it, protect it, know it, and enjoy it. Consider it a spiritual obligation as the saying goes we are spiritual beings having a human experience. 
4. Never be afraid to cut out people from your life that make you feel less than, gaslight you, or harm you in any way. Negativity can easily consume and control. It is best to detach yourself from negative people and places sooner than later. When people show you who they are believe them the first time. 
5. Serving others and giving back is essential to life and our purpose. Find ways to give back be it by volunteering or a vocation. Surround yourself with people who also want to live with purpose and a desire to give back to the world. It is our job to care for this planet and leave it better than we found it. ​

6. Never stop learning. Listen twice as much as you speak. We have two ears and one mouth for that very reason. 

7. Do things that challenge you mentally and physically consistently and often during your life. The purpose of our little existence is to grow and evolve. Surround yourself with people who are better and more skilled than you so you can grow. 

8. Trust your intuition. Every time I second guessed myself and doubted my intuition things got complicated. Each time I trusted myself and my inner knowing life flowed.

9. Exercise and resisting training are the fountain of youth and the most accessible cure for many mental health issues. Just a ten minute walk can shift your whole mindset. 

10. Avoid anxiety inducing events before bed, such as watching the news, handling finances, etc. If it can’t be avoided try this mantra: “I am safe. I am cared for. I am loved.” Repeat that until you calm yourself or fall asleep. 

11. Never compare your life to someone else’s. It is the surest way to bring yourself down and rob you of joy. Trust your life’s timing. Truth the process. Be full of faith and never give up. 

12. Cook your own food as much as possible. It is the a form of health care and it is best for the planet, too. I speak of this often. If you struggle with cooking you can always order a copy of my book. 

​Let me know what you think of this list and if anything resonated with you.