Creating a Joy-Filled Life - 5 Keys to Better Self Care

One of the most challenging aspects to creating a joy-filled life is letting go of the past. Most people have a few bumps along the way and these can be devastating to our outlook on life. Some people focus on these bumps and freeze with their pursuit of a joyful life. I know the hurt, pain, and suffering they go through. Whatever lessons we've learned are what we've learned.

Here are some specific steps you can take today to break the bonds of bad lessons and find the happiness you deserve. Here are 5 key steps to take care of yourself and let go of the past.

1. Be kind and compassionate with yourself. Many people look at the mistakes they make as tools to beat themselves up. If you take those mistakes and forgive yourself, then you can make forward progress. You probably forgot that the first time you tried to walk, you fell a few times. And yet, you kept after it.

2. Forgive others. Yes, this is a big request. If you aren't able to forgive them yet, at least write out what you would say if you were to forgive them. You don't have to share that with anyone.

3. Focus on what is working well in your life. What you focus on will expand. If you want more joy, then focus your thoughts on joyful moments throughout your day.

4. Take a picture of yourself as a child. Reflect on what you want for that young child. Talk to that child from your wise, adult perspective. Tell that child the following:

* You are loved

* You have a purpose

* You matter in this world

* You are worthwhile

5. Make an OK list. There are lessons many people have learned where it's not OK to get angry, it's not OK to speak up, it's not OK to... fill in the blank. Here are some things from my OK list to help you get started with your list.

* It's OK if I disagree with someone

* It's OK if someone disagrees with me

* It's OK to love myself

* It's OK to be joyful

* It's OK to have big dreams

The biggest obstacles to leading a joy-filled life is taking the first step. Be kind to yourself. Choose one of these powerful steps to create joy and do it today.

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Interested in additional tips to reconnect with lost dreams? You can discover more powerful tips for leading a joy-filled life at: [http://www.happyconversations.com]

Denny Stockdale is an award winning inspirational author and provides professionals with monthly tips to move forward with a monthly newsletter. Get your guidelines for leading a joy-filled life and sign up for the newsletter are [http://www.happyconversations.com]