10 Truths To Living Your Life On Your Own Terms

10 Truths To Living Your Life On Your Own Terms

People like to try to dictate how everyone lives and what they should do, meaning it’s easy to lose sight of the truth that we have the power to say, “Screw that!” and do whatever we want. Want to start living life on your own terms? Here’s how to make it work for you.

1. Embrace Your Individuality.

When you think about embracing your individuality, it’s really about celebrating everything that makes you ‘you.’ From the way you laugh at jokes to the unique perspective you bring to a conversation, these are the things that set you apart. It’s about being comfortable in your own skin and making choices that reflect your true self. Whether you’re into vintage clothes, love indie music, or have a knack for painting, let these interests shine through. Remember, the world is much more interesting with your originality in it.

2. Set Your Own Goals.

Setting your own goals is like plotting out your personal adventure. Think about what gets you excited or what you’ve always wanted to achieve. Maybe it’s running a marathon, starting a blog, or learning a new language. These goals should resonate with you on a personal level. It’s not about impressing others but about fulfilling your own aspirations. When you work towards goals that matter to you, the sense of accomplishment is not just satisfying; it fuels your motivation to achieve even more.

3. Learn to Say No.

Learning to say no is really about understanding and respecting your own limits. It’s recognizing that you can’t do everything and that’s perfectly okay. Whether it’s declining an extra project at work or saying no to social plans when you need a break, it’s important to prioritize your needs. This doesn’t make you selfish; it makes you smart about managing your energy and time. Remember, when you say no to things that don’t fit your priorities, you’re actually saying yes to things that do.

4. Value Your Time.

Valuing your time means recognizing that every minute you have is precious. It’s about choosing how you spend your time based on what makes you happy and fulfilled. This could mean spending time with loved ones, pursuing a hobby, or just relaxing. It’s also about being present in the moment. When you’re doing something, give it your full attention. This makes your experiences more enjoyable and meaningful.

5. Seek Personal Growth.

Seeking personal growth is all about embracing the journey of self-improvement. It’s acknowledging that you’re a work in progress and there’s always something new to learn. This could be professional skills, like taking a course in web design, or personal skills, like learning how to be more patient. It’s about being curious and open to new experiences. Every new skill or insight you gain not only makes you more capable but also adds more layers to who you are.

6. Maintain Healthy Relationships.

Keeping up with healthy relationships is like surrounding yourself with a personal cheer squad. It’s about spending time with folks who make you laugh, support your dreams, and offer a shoulder when you need it. These relationships are the ones where you feel free to be yourself, without any pretense. Remember, it’s not about having a huge circle of friends, but about the quality of the connections. Whether it’s family, friends, or a significant other, these relationships should leave you feeling uplifted, not drained.

7. Achieve financial Independence.

Financial independence is like having the keys to your own life. It’s about managing your money in a way that aligns with your personal goals and values. This could mean saving up for a dream trip, investing in your education, or just being able to splurge on a fancy dinner without worry. It’s not about how much you earn, but how wisely you use it. Learning to budget, save, and spend smartly gives you the freedom to make life choices on your own terms.

8. Put yourself first sometimes.

Prioritizing your well-being is like giving a high-five to yourself every day. It’s about taking care of your body and mind. This could mean hitting the gym, enjoying a hobby, or simply getting enough sleep. Mental health is just as important, so don’t hesitate to take a mental health day or talk to someone when things get heavy. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential to keep you at your best.

9. Accept Change.

Couple cafe drinking©iStock/Svetikd

Accepting change is like being open to new chapters in your life story. Life is full of twists and turns – some planned, some unexpected. It might be a new job, moving to a different city, or changes in relationships. Instead of resisting these changes, try to embrace them. Often, these changes lead to new opportunities and experiences that wouldn’t have come otherwise.

10. Live Authentically.

Living authentically is about being the truest version of yourself in all aspects of life. It means your actions and choices are in line with your personal beliefs and values. It’s not about putting on different masks for different situations; it’s about being the same ‘you’ whether you’re at work, with friends, or at home. This authenticity attracts people and opportunities that resonate with your genuine self.

Originally from Australia, Emma Mills graduated from the University of Queensland with a dual degree in Philosophy and Applied Linguistics before moving to Los Angeles to become a professional matchmaker (a bit of a shift, obviously). Since 2015, she has helped more than 150 people find lasting love and remains passionate about bringing amazing singletons together.

Emma is also the author of the upcoming Hachette publication, "Off the Beaten Track: Finding Lasting Love in the Least Likely of Places," due out in January 2025.
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