10 Things You’ll Never See Me Doing… And Why They Matter for a Fulfilled Life
My journals are often a reflection of mindsets, strategies, and habits I’ve developed over the last several years to create a purpose-driven and fulfilling life. We’ve explored topics like creating white space, fierce commitment, and cultivating strength, just to name a few.
But equally important to what I’ve added to my life are the things I choose to exclude. What I choose not to do plays a vital role in protecting my energy and peace, living in alignment, and honoring the life I consciously create.
Here are 10 things you’ll never see me doing, and why avoiding them is key to living an energized, aligned, and fulfilled life:
1. Speaking or acting out of alignment with my values.
This means no people pleasing or saying “yes” because I feel I should. Authenticity is a non-negotiable for me, and it’s what keeps me in alignment with my core values.
2. Neglecting my morning routine.
My days always begin with coffee, prayer, and exercise. This routine is a simple “reboot” each morning for my mind, body, and soul. It sets the tone for the rest of my day and leaves me feeling grounded, clear, and confident.
3. Skipping a meal.
This one is not even on the table for discussion! I cannot function without a proper meal, nor do I want to! Nourishing my body is an act of self-respect.
4. Complaining or making excuses.
No matter what the context, either I can take action, or I can surrender it. Complaining is simply an attempt to avoid responsibility. And without taking responsibility, there’s no room for growth or forward movement.
5. Rushing to answer an email, text, or call.
I’ve learned the value and power of pausing in order to be responsive, and not reactive. This pause creates space for clarity, calm, and thoughtful communication.
6. Ignoring my intuition.
I have come to recognize that my intuition is a deep inner guidance that goes beyond my intellectual thinking. Slowing down has become a priority for me to be able to strengthen this voice and trust its whispers.
7. Comparison to others.
“Comparison is the thief of joy!” My journey is uniquely mine, as is my timeline and my purpose - comparison is simply irrelevant and unnecessary.
8. Neglecting rest and play.
Experiencing fulfillment and joy in life requires presence and energy, not only productivity. And making sure to have quality white space in my calendar makes it possible to be present and enjoy each moment.
9. Waiting for the “perfect” moment.
EVERY moment is the perfect moment. There’s nothing to wait for. An intentional life is created from taking aligned action, even if it’s “messy action.”
10. Neglecting personal growth and development.
I will always invest my time, energy, and resources into personal learning and expansion beyond my current comfort zone. Curiosity, purpose, and fulfillment are guiding forces in my life.
This list didn’t come about simply because I don’t want to do these things. Each “non-action” reflects a conscious and intentional commitment to my core life values. Staying true to these boundaries is a daily practice that reinforces my personal operating system.
As you build your own life of purpose and fulfillment, I encourage you to create your own list. Because an intentional life is built on what we choose to do, as well as what we choose not to do.
Photo: @behzadphotography
