Life Altering Questions to Ask Yourself Right Now

What does it mean to examine one's life? I think it means that we take the time to stop and think. We take the time to ask questions of ourselves. I think an examined life is one in which we are willing to review and reflect on who we are, what we are doing and really ask the questions that will move us forward to living our best life.

Here are some life altering questions to ask yourself right now...

1. Where do I see myself in one year, three years or five years? I recognize how challenging this might be for some of you to answer, however it is so important to have a plan based on a vision for our lives. I know life can be unpredictable and this year has certainly proven that to us but asking this question will help you to gain clarity around your goals and make decisions about what is important to you. And asking yourself about what you want to be, do or have in the future stretches your vision and expands your possibilities. Without goals we have no direction or destination. Having clear goals will also help you focus on the right activities that will bring the results needed to get you closer to the goal(s). And when your goals line up with the best version of your life you will feel the motivation to work towards them and then to create newer bigger goals.

2. If I do nothing to change my life right now where will I be in one year, three years or five years? You know what they say; "If nothing changes, then nothing changes." If we do not take the time to set goals and focus on the actions that line up with those goals will we truly grow? Will we have the life we want and will we reach our fullest potential? Therefore, if we fail to ask ourselves the question, "If I do nothing to change my life will I be ok with the outcome?" we may miss out on an extraordinary opportunity to have more out of this one exceptional life we are given. The answers to this question will motivate you to take action.

3. What is my BIG why? This is the secret to accomplishing your goals. Your BIG why is your reason for wanting to accomplish the goal in the first place. It is your motivation, the fuel in your engine and the root of your desire. Knowing your "why" behind your goals and dreams will inspire you to take action. Having a clear "why" gives you purpose and sparks your motivation to do what it takes to achieve your goal especially on those days when you lack inspiration or feel discouraged. Being connected to your "why" will motivate you to keep going!

4. Do I have enough relationships in my life that support me and inspire me? It has been said that we are the average of the 5 people we spend the most time with. The people you talk to and hang out with shape your thinking, behavior and goals. If you're ready to level up in your career or business spend time with successful entrepreneurs. If you want to be more confident, more outspoken surround yourself with confident people. We grow into the conversations around us. If we are never challenged to think bigger how will we? If you want to reach your greatest potential it is important to be around people who are growth minded and ambitious. If all you see around you is complacency you will succumb to mediocrity.

5. What am I grateful? Gratitude is a feeling of appreciation and thankfulness and it is so important to our physical, mental and emotional well being. When we express gratitude we are acknowledging our appreciation for something or someone and that feels good! Actually, it is deeper than that. Numerous studies in the field of Positive Psychology have proven that gratitude is associated with emotions that help people live happier, healthier lives. There is always something to be grateful for. Look for them and you will find them.

6. Do I worry too much about what other people think of me? What other people think of you is none of your business. Other people's approval or validation is not what is required to live a happy and meaningful life. Worrying about what other people think of you and your choices will only get in your way of being an emotionally strong and capable independent thinker. What matters most is what YOU think of your life. And pursuing YOUR dreams and aspirations. Seeking approval from other people is only going to result in you living life at less than full capacity. You have nothing to prove. Be confident in who you are. Make the decisions that are right for you. The only person you need to please is you!

7. What mistakes did I make today and what can I learn from them? Sometimes we win and sometimes we lose. Mistakes are made and lessons are learned if we seek the learning. When we can be super real with ourselves and acknowledge something we could have done better it's a growth opportunity. The process will also help you to be more compassionate and kind to yourself and others. Everyone makes a mistake, the lesson you get from it is up to you. The opportunity to do something better, faster, easier or more efficiently is going to result in a higher level of production the next time. And the opportunity to do something with more kindness, fairness, eloquence, strategy, compassion or authority will make you a better person, partner or leader. These lessons are invaluable to our growth.