12 Days To a Meaningful Life

7) Emotions

On the seventh day of a meaningful life, we accept the proper role of emotions. They are alarms that let us know a value is being touched. But they can be deceptive. We need to express emotions properly, but take them for what they are worth. They are not an excuse to make poor decisions. They are an invitation to make good ones.

8) Communication

On the eighth day of a meaningful life, we engage in meaningful conversation with the people around us. Good relationships are essential for fulfillment. We have to learn how to communicate through conflict and triumph and boredom. Everything we do or say communicates significance. Harness that potential energy for good rather than apathy.

9) Systems

On the ninth day of a meaningful life, our systems begin to change. The patterns we have become accustomed to are not going to change without a fight. We’ve got layers and layers of reinforced behavior and thought. Moving them is like turning an ocean liner. We’ve got to be patient, diligent, and intentional.

10) Truth

On the tenth day of a meaningful life, we accept truth as a friend rather than an enemy. Truth sets us on the path of purpose. We fight so hard to avoid the truths we don’t like. But learning how to follow the tide of truth rather than swimming against it saves a lot of energy. It is also the only way to find the meaning we so deeply long for.

11) Control

On the eleventh day of a meaningful life, we take control. But not of everything! There are exactly three things we can control. That’s it. No more, no less. Living a meaningful life is about stewarding these three things effectively and letting go of everything else.

12) Goals

On the twelfth day of a meaningful life, we’re finally ready to set goals! SMART goals are the practical steps of a transformed life. But they don’t happen in a vacuum. They happen in light of all of the things listed above. Our goals won’t be perfect (remember Day Five!). But most of life is trying. If you are sick of the life you are living, now is the season for change.