I should be freaking out, but I’m not. Many people in my position would go straight into panic mode. I just made a major life change and moved to a new, unfamiliar city; certainties are few, and question marks are many. I write from the heart, so here’s my true take on how to enjoy yourself in the NOW and live more fearlessly.
1. Stay in the moment
When I think too much about what’s ahead, focus on what I have to do next, or ponder my looming student loan repayments and miscellaneous debt, I get whacked out and anxious. Please stay in the moment by focusing on one thing at a time; it’s truly the only way to stay calm and present. You are smarter and stronger than you give yourself credit for, so breathe in, breathe out and come back to this moment.
2. Say, “this is temporary.”
One of my favorite Buddhist teachers, Pema Chödrön, teaches this expression to help us get and stay grounded. When we acknowledge that yes, even this wretched moment shall pass, things immediately improve. Everything passes—I can promise you that.
3. Eat and sleep well
Whole, unprocessed, organic fruits and vegetables should be the mainstay in your daily diet. Don’t skimp and poison your beautiful body with fast and processed foods. Ditch the junk and eat clean; you’ll fuel your body, mind, and spirit and be ready for anything!
4. Talk to people you trust
Tonight, I spoke to one of the teachers I trained with when I became certified to teach yoga. Reach out to your most solid, dependable, trustworthy contacts and ask for advice. Fairweather friends won’t be there when it rains, but those old faithful pals will. Talking about your fears helps dispel anxiety, nervous energy, and dark thoughts.
5. Get organized
When you feel fear welling up inside you—whether it stems from financial concerns, job instability, or issues with a partner—sort your thoughts out. While you’re at it, make a pro and cons list; my aunt recently suggested I do this, which was tremendously helpful.
6. Take yourself out on dates
When you feel small, afraid and maybe a little lonesome, take yourself on a date. It can be as simple as going out to eat, seeing a new film, or checking out a concert solo—do it, and stop being afraid of spending time alone. It’s good for you to get to know yourself and treat yourself well.
7. Try something entirely new
Check out a new yoga studio, take a day off and go day-tripping, or rent a car and drive with no destination—get out and try something new. You may find your next hobby, lover, job, or just a beautiful country road. Feed your spirit with stimulating, healthy new experiences.
8. Meditate
I practice Transcendental Meditation, and it has been a total game-changer. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Meditation brings clarity and stillness, and it opens you up to receive new ideas and opportunities with greater ease. Stop feeling stuck, and give yourself the gift of daily meditation practice. Check out TM.org for info on the technique I use.
9. Stop unhealthy patterns
Whether it’s a relationship that’s gone south, a stagnant job, or anything else that is currently crushing your soul or dulling your light, cut it out. The sooner, the better—life is a precious gift, and it is our birthright to be happy. Stop wasting away and start living, fully and in the present moment.
It’s okay to be scared. Life can be daunting, but you are not alone. Take good care of yourself, seek advice from loved ones and good friends, and start new, healthy habits. Before you know it, you’ll be asking fear to get out of the way so that you can live your best life. Commit to living more fearlessly today.
