It's said that even the longest journeys start with a simple step - and no journey is more important than a life well lived. Here are three ways to boost the enjoyment factor in your own life.
1. Make a point of trying something new.
Once we find what works for us, it's easy to get caught in a routine. By breaking out of our usual habits - in ways both large and small - we start to see the world afresh.
If you're feeling caught in a rut, start with small steps. Sample new foods. Go to a cultural event. Try a new exercise class. Explore an unfamiliar neighbourhood on the weekend. Or you could take on larger adventures, like learning a new skill (horseback riding, sailing, abstract painting, playing the drums) or volunteering in your community.
Even the tiniest changes can have big results. Something as simple as taking a different route to work could lead you to bump into an old friend. A night-school course might ignite a long-simmering passion and lead to a new business venture.
There are many ways to incorporate positive change into your life, and you never know where one small step will take you.
2. Harmonize your home with the life you want to live.
Your home should make it possible for you to live the life that you want. Does yours? Here are some questions to consider:
- Do you lack sufficient space, or the right kind of space, for your family and the activities you enjoy doing?
- Are you constantly seeking a place to relax, but never quite find it?
- Do you feel discouraged by the amount of time that home repairs or housework require?
- Is the cost of owning and running your home preventing you from achieving important goals?
If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, it's possible that your home is no longer the right fit for your life. It might be time for you to "rightsize."
For some people, the answer might be looking for a larger space, whether that means more bedrooms, bigger closets or a deeper lot. For others, downsizing or moving to a more "finished" home might make them happier, and could even free up cash for other pursuits.
Moving isn't always the solution - sometimes it's best to work with the house you have. That could be as simple as redecorating the master bedroom to create a more relaxing space, or as complex as building an addition to accommodate a home office or studio.
Try to imagine the changes that will make you feel at home in your home.
3. Plan your next job - even if you love the one you have.
No matter how content you are in your job, you can benefit from thinking about where you want to be in five or ten years. If you start now to think about your next step, you'll be prepared to spring into action when the time is right. It may even invigorate you in your current position in ways you never imagined.
Are there other opportunities that interest you in your current company, at other companies in your industry - or even beyond? Have you ever considered opening your own business?
What are the skills you would need to acquire to make that next step a reality? What is the best way to acquire those skills? Options might include finding a mentor, doing research, taking night school or online courses, or returning to school full-time.
By anticipating your next career move before it's time to make it, you can start taking the necessary steps now to make the dream a reality.
The information provided in this article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide specific financial or other advice, and should not be relied upon in that regard. Readers should consult their own professional advisor when planning to implement a strategy. This will ensure that individual circumstances have been considered properly and that the strategy is based on the latest available information. RBC Royal Bank is not bound to provide financing.
® Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada.
© 2007 Royal Bank of Canada.
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