The amazing Samantha from our blog team wrote this post!
Life Lessons from Unexpected Sources
A lot can be learned from taking the time to consider the views of the people around us, whether they are friends, family or strangers. While we may dismiss social media platforms such as Facebook, they are a space in which we can share ideas and broaden our horizons by embracing the views of others. Here are some of the things I’ve learned and brought into my life from a variety of these sources. Give it a go and see what a difference such small changes can make!
Wait to panic
I heard this on a podcast and my first reaction was to burst out laughing at how strange it sounded. However, as I gave it more thought, I realised the wisdom behind the words. Because maybe whatever you’re panicking about won’t be as bad as you think, and maybe panicking will actually make the situation worse. Step back, assess, and then decide if panicking is the best course of action. This is very difficult to do, rather than jumping right in, but it is sure to save you a lot of unnecessary stress and anxiety. Often we panic prematurely, when really there are plenty of other things we could do that would be significantly more productive and significantly less draining. Only panic as a last resort, if all else fails.
Enjoy the view, even if it sucks
This was advice given to me by a friend as we stared at a wall of white at a lookout in the Grampians. The view sometimes sucks, but we all have an imagination to compensate for it. Besides, just because the view, or whatever else is going on in your life, isn’t so great this time, it doesn’t mean there won’t be plenty of other good views and experiences in the future. And even the bad contains some good – it makes for good stories to tell your friends, and it makes the good seem even sweeter.
Be the best version of yourself
Do what is hard, embrace high expectations, do work that matters and take risks. This advice was given to me by my mother, from the words of Australian of the Year, Michelle Simmons. It beautifully sums up the way I’ve been taught to and the way I want to live my life. They are words I will live by for the rest of my life, because they are a good guide to getting the most out of life.
Live simply and happily
I read a post on Facebook recently that suggested that we could learn a lot about living well from man’s, and woman’s, very best friends. While dogs may have less to worry about in their lives, they have certainly figured out the secrets to a good life: making loved ones the most important things in their lives; taking every opportunity for adventure; enjoying simple things like fresh air, naps, attention and walks; and giving love and affection unconditionally.
Smile more
Smiling and laughing are the ultimate icebreakers, painkillers, distractors and mood boosters. Pay attention to your surroundings and there’s bound to be little bits of happiness and beauty all around you to make you smile and to improve your spirits. Our world is a beautiful place and it takes nothing more than opening our eyes and really seeing to experience this. What’s more, if someone else sees you smiling and appreciating life, you may just influence them to do the same. Share your happiness with a smile, because that’s our best defence against all of the stress, sadness and hardship in the world.
