By nature, “fulfillment” can feel like a vague concept, more the territory of New Agey self-help than a practical goal. But ultimately, we all want to find a path that leads to satisfaction and happiness.
Certain behaviors and thought processes are strongly linked to fulfillment, and these nine habits seem particularly prevalent among people who are pleased with the state of their lives.
There’s nothing wrong with a bit of healthy competition; seeking to improve your performance provides valuable momentum in both a professional sphere and in your personal life. However, engaging in comparisons between yourself and others can eventually prevent you from attaining the success you desire. Focus instead on your own action, and you’ll have a more realistic perspective on your progress and successes.
Participating in unequal relationships that drain and exhaust you won’t bolster your overall happiness, and they can compromise your productivity. Allow yourself to do some “house cleaning” and let go of connections and “friendships” that don’t positively affect your life.
While achieving external goals can certainly bring a sense of fulfillment, the lasting version comes from inner growth. Take self-care seriously and invest attention in your own health, wellbeing, and personal ambitions.
Lashing out against inevitable forces happens to everyone... but true satisfaction can only occur when you accept what you cannot change and figure out how to work around those obstacles. Understanding limitations opens your mind up to creative solutions, which can prove highly fulfilling.
Gratitude serves as an effective motivator; if you’re genuinely grateful for your successes, then you’ll feel more inclined to continue their pursuit and to keep your future actions in-line with what you’ve already achieved.
Time management can be a major challenge, but it’s one well-worth conquering. When you know how to schedule yourself and hold yourself accountable to deadlines and due dates, you can eliminate significant stress.
It’s a commonly-held misconception that setting boundaries will limit your potential. However, the opposite typically proves true; if you know how to clearly express your limits, you’ll have a clear view of what you need and how to get it, and those around you will also comprehend where you stand.
If you restrict yourself to activities that you find “easy”, then you’ll miss out on the chance to expand your skill set and make new discoveries. Spend some time on a pursuit that challenges you, and you’ll find yourself reaping the rewards.
Offering your time and talents for the benefit of others results in a self-esteem boost that can propel you forward and increase your inner satisfaction. Don’t forget: helping others also helps yourself!
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