Have you like me found yourself sometimes taking wrong turn-offs in life, causing you lots of trouble and frustration, and forcing you to re-route?
Recently, I experienced this first-hand when I missed a turn-off on our way to Cape Point. It wasn’t until I turned on my GPS that I realized I had missed a beautiful road along the ocean. We ended up taking a longer route through the city that initially caused a bit of frustration and took more time. But wow, we eventually got there and had a great time, and even enjoyed the detour.
This experience reminded me of the importance of using our Life GPS system. Knowing where we want to go and making decisions based on that knowledge can save us a lot of pain and unhappiness in the long run. But when we do make mistakes, it’s important to acknowledge them, use our navigation system effectively, and course-correct to get back on track.
Using the analogy, here are some practical pointers to help us use our Life GPS system and navigate our way through life, no matter what phase of life we are in:
- Proactively set clear goals & know your ideal destiny: It sounds obvious, but most of us don’t take this first important step – they re-actively take life as it comes. Just like entering a destination in your GPS, it’s important to have a clear idea of where you want to go in life. Set goals that align with your values and aspirations, and use them as a guide to make decisions and take action.
- Stay present and aware, and enjoy the ride: Just like paying attention to the road while driving, it’s important to stay present and aware in life. Be mindful of your thoughts, emotions, and surroundings, and stay open to new opportunities and experiences. As the saying goes: “Seize the day and enjoy the flowers on the way while you may”.
- Learn from your mistakes: Admit it, learn from it, and move on. Just like recalculating your route when you take a wrong turn, it’s important to learn from your mistakes and use them to course correct. Don’t keep doing what does not work. Go out and try new things and take risks, but also be willing to adjust your course if things don’t go as planned. The worst mistake is one that you don’t learn from. And let’s not blame and criticise ourselves. Mistakes and failures are normal, and part of learning and growing on our way to success and happiness.
- Prioritize self-care: Just like taking care of your car to ensure a smooth ride, it’s important to prioritize self-care to ensure a fulfilling life. This includes getting enough rest, eating well, exercising regularly, and taking time for hobbies and activities that bring you joy.
- Remain flexible and adaptable to change: Life is unpredictable, and sometimes you may need to take a detour or change your course entirely. Remember, even the wrong turns can lead to beautiful destinations.
Let’s remember, every one of us is unique. Therefore, your Life GPS system is unique to you: your purpose and calling, values and aspirations, personality and talents. It may take some trial and error to figure out what works best for you. But with practice and patience, you can navigate your way through life with more ease and purpose. Take some time to reflect on where you want to go in life, and use your internal GPS system to guide you on your journey.
May you make your life into a great and worthwhile journey! Bon voyage fellow-traveler!
