Being Content With Life

---

---

Be thankful for what you have, you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you have, you will never, ever have enough – Oprah Winfrey

Which person has ever felt bored, restless and in search of that void missing in their life? Frequently many of us live for that moment of I will be happy when.…. but really will you be happy ? There is no platform where one can truly attain contentment , however in saying that, we can learn to be content.

Lets look at the definition of Contentment.

Finding joy in what we have, showing satisfaction with our status, situation and possessions. Being happy without trying to find fulfillment in acquiring more materialistic possessions.

Also, contentment can be seen as a state of being happy and satisfied. It is like a peaceful ease of mind,  satisfied with what you have. For example, being content with having a hot cup of chocolate and watching a good movie. Whatever the case may be, you are pleased with it.

Often people have this underlying perception that once they have achieved everything for their dream lifestyle, they will be fully satisfied and fulfilled in their life. Sadly, this isn’t always the case. Even after achievements have been ticked off the bucket list, they still don’t feel at ease and happy. There is this sense  of something still missing. This is where contentment comes into the equation.  Being content in life is so important and cannot be stressed enough. Let us take a look at some benefits of contentment.

Happiness 

Being content promotes happiness. Contentment in the present allows happiness and acceptance in any given situation, Be grateful for what you have and not ponder on what we can’t have. Take it into your stride and accept it for what it is.

Being at Peace

When you allow yourself to be at peace with the present, it facilitates growth and steps towards self improvement. Continue to still have your dreams as we all have that within us, but accept what is it today and continue on the journey to attaining a better future.

By failing to be at peace, you may find it hard to stay focused and motivated while aiming for that future.

Positive attitude should be practiced and adhered to.

Relationships

By being content you are accepting others for who they are. All of have flaws and no is perfect. No one! Contentment and feelings of happiness enrich relationships with affection , trust and provide growth and healing.

Wants and Needs

When you are content, the only thing that you may require is the need of something. There is, however, a difference between want and need. Contentment may help to distinguish between wanting and needing. The abundance of the present is enough to lead a happy and healthy life. Contentment often leads to the realisation that doesn’t come from materialistic things.

Simple things in life 

It is so important that you practice gratitude. Material things don’t promote happiness in the long run , it is not a competition. It is about self sustenance. The more thankful and appreciative you are the more happier you will be.

Feeling content with yourself means talking care of you, yes you!, inside and out.

Sometimes we become so fixated on focusing on the future and imaging about being slimmer, healthier, happier and richer but it is all about taking controlled action now in the present, not later.

How can we take care of ourselves? 

Meditation

Mediation – so beneficial to us. Try to meditate every morning , even if its for 5 minutes it will still be valuable to you to your mind, body and soul and commence the day for you on a positive high.

---

---

Mediation reduces stress, controls anxiety, promotes emotional well being, generate kindness and enhance self awareness.

Journaling

Having a journal is a great tool for reflection. It assists in relaxation, helps you to find clarity and peace. You also become more aware of what is going on in your  everyday life,  keeps your thoughts organised, set and achieve goals, relieve stress, boost your memory and inspire creativity.

Walking 

Take a walk after lunch or dinner. Walking is so beneficial for body, mind and soul. It helps to digest your food, the fresh air brings life into you and you come back feeling revived and refreshed. Take in everything as you walk , you will be amazed at what you observe. It can certainly improve your quality of life.  Its just what the doctor ordered.

Water

Drink more water. The body needs it for survival , hydration, keep your brain more alert, rid the body of toxins and bring a glow to your skin.

Declutter the home

Yes declutter! Throw things that are of no use and just taking up space. Refresh your home and give it that relaxed atmosphere and  make it more inviting for others.

Mindfulness Practice

The best way to cultivate inner peace and also reduce stress. Mindfulness is about appreciating where you are without trying to change anything. Mindfulness maintains a  moment by moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations through gentle lens. Thoughts are tuned into the present rather than rehashing the past or what the future holds.

Self Care Ideas 

Mind: Meditation, reading , journaling, coloring and learn a language.

Body: Yoga, pilates, walking, stretching and cardio work out.

Soul: Cooking, play an instrument, listen to a podcast and DIY projects.

Contentment is a choice. Make the decision to start enjoying the simpler things in life that bring you joy and peace. Your physical and social well being will start to improve and  rejuvenate you with energy to do the things that will bring you enjoyment and joy in life.

You will also have this renewed sense of gratitude and be thankful to yourself for each and every day the decision you have made to be content in your life.

Living in the moment is about living like there is no tomorrow. This takes practice but you will ultimately lead a far more fulfilled life. You will come to realise that there is beauty within every moment, everyday activities that we live and breathe. Living and being in the moment is a conscious act.

Be realistic…. nobody is really happy all the time , 24/7, and its perfectly normal to have mood swings. Make the most of the life you are given.

Breathe and smile , it can change your outlook on life.

Good friends, good books and a sleep conscience – this is the ideal life.

 – Mark Twain