That Will Be My Life

While drifting in the waves this past weekend in South Padre, Texas, I had a funny epiphany. I was telling one of my best friends who has a habit of always wanting to be in control, to go with the flow. How ironic, considering we were literally floating with the ocean’s current in that precise moment.

With the beach being one of my happy places, I realized the ocean not only has a calming effect on people, but it also has unspoken messages hidden in its entireity. Here are four life lessons taught by the ocean for a more satisfying life.

1. Go With the Flow

   This probably isn’t your first time hearing this, but hear me out. I’m not saying to wait around for things to just happen in your life. It doesn’t work that way. What I am suggesting, is to chill out a little. Being high-strung and on edge all the time isn’t going to get you anywhere either.

   I’m an extreme clean freak. My bed is made every day, you’ll never find an article of clothing outside of my closet, neatly folded, and my car always looks like it just left the wash. Now this is a pretty soft example, but I’ve learned to not let a mess in my bedroom ruin my day if I’m in a rush. Simply put, it isn’t worth it. I note to myself that it’s not the end of the world and I’ll take care of it when I have time, which is perfectly fine!

2. Don’t Drown Yourself in Worry

   I’m currently reading the book, “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life” by Mark Manson. One thing I really appreciate about the content is how raw it is (as if the title weren’t enough). Manson talks about life being an everlasting cycle of problems. These problems may be bigger and smaller at times, but they will always exist.

   I know, what kind of self-hep book is this, right? But seriously. Once you accept the fact that you will ALWAYS have problems in your life, it’s way easier to adapt to a less stressful way of living.

   Think of it like this: You lost your keys on top of a chaotic morning when you stubbed your toe and burnt your toast. Your keys are nowhere to be found and you’re about to lose your shit. Stop. The situation is there, it’s happened. The only thing you can control at this point is your reaction. So instead of crying, screaming or punching a wall, try taking a deep breath and as calmly as you can, search for you keys. You’re more likely to find them in a composed state of mind, then letting your emotions literally blind you.

3. Accept That People Can be Salty

   No matter the reason, there are people out there who just don’t like you. Whether it’s because they’re envious, angry or resentful, you’re not their favorite. This is an inevitable part of life that for most, is one of the most difficult to cope with.

   Whatever you do, don’t go seeking their admiration. Clearly, they aren’t meant to be a priority in your life, as you’re not in theirs. Continue to do what makes you happen and seek after your own individuality. You don’t owe anyone anything.

4. Remember to Enjoy the View

   I know earlier I mentioned that life is a constant series of problems. Sorry, I’m not here to take that back. Instead, I want to remind you that even though we all deal with complications in our every day lives, there is something good in every day.

   If you’re struggling to find the good, it’s time to start making moves. Remember that you create the life you live. You’ve made the choices that have brought you to this point and if you don’t like them, do something about it. One thing I truly don’t understand is when someone complains about where they’re at in life, yet fail to make any moves to change it.

   A couple months ago, I was extremely unhappy with my life. I felt like I was working my life away in a job I resented. I had to pick up another job to compensate for the first and was downright miserable. I felt my negative energy emanating so after a couple weeks of serious consideration, I decided to work on my own terms. I quit my 9-5, and created my own business! I’m officially a solopreneur. Although my business is still in the works, my quality of life has improved drastically! Was it a scary decision? Extremely. Was it worth it? Absolutely.

   When people say I’m “lucky” that I get to work from home, they couldn’t be more wrong. I worked for what I have. This didn’t just drop on my lap. And guess what? You can too! And when you create the life that best suits you, the view gets even better. 🙂