Our world is constantly bombarded by information provided by media, entertainment on TV and social media.  This content is created and broadcast to keep us informed and entertained – and it’s doing an exceptional job at doing so.

We are so entertained and distracted by media that many of us have delayed doing the things that would improve our lives.  Instead, we spend hours, days and even years doing things that add no growth or value to our lives.

Consequently, we complain that we have no time to devote to ourselves for self-improvement.  We say things like, “there’s no time to do that”, “there’s no time to work on that project” or “I have no time to develop a financial plan.”  Unknowingly we stop ourselves from doing the things which may bring us the happiness we are looking for.

Why do we make so many excuses for not doing the things we know would improve our lives and make us happier?

As we experience life we develop and incorporate behaviors and habits, good or bad, as a part of being conditioned by external factors.  Conditioning occurs through the interaction with our environments and is the root of learned behavior.

We have been conditioned by media, old philosophies and traditions taught and passed down to us by our parents, family and in our schools.  Some conditioning at one point in time had its place, but no longer serve us currently.  The lives we live are not our own; instead it is the life that has been pre -designed by external factors, rather than our own internal factors.  This is causing us to go through life on auto-pilot and living a life of unhappiness.

Take Control

If we are to get the “good life” we must take control of our lives in the areas of Health, Wealth and Happiness.  We have more control over our lives than we think.  The power to create our own beliefs, philosophies and traditions is within our control.  Our happiness can be determined by our decisions and actions.

Where to Start?

Every one of us needs direction and balance in life to gain true happiness and receive the “good life.” Here are some steps to start your journey:

First, understand and recognize that if you continue to make excuses and procrastinate you will only delay your happiness.

Second, decide to quiet the noise in your life.  Find a quiet place to control your thoughts and evaluate where you are and what you want in life.

Third, get clarity and develop a sense of purpose in life.  This will help to provide a road map for your life.

Finally, ACT! Begin to actively and consistently charge forward using the road map as a guide, which will keep you on course and direct the path of your life in the areas of health, wealth and happiness.

Patience Required

It’s important to note that you should be very patient with yourself during this process.  It may take some time and may even be painful to address but will help you design your best life.  Making a decision to commit and building a life influenced by internal factors rather than external factors, is how we regain control over our life instead of letting life control us.