Are you making the most of your life?

That question hits deep, right?

Everyone wants — at the end of their days — to think, “That was a life well lived.”

I’ve been obsessed with this concept for as long as I can remember.

That’s why I…

• Partied like an animal in college (my concept of a “life well lived” was different then lol).
• Quit my corporate job and traveled the world in 2015-2016.
• Threw myself into lots of different environments and experiences.
• Did so much writing and coaching to help and inspire people.
• Practice mindfulness to be able to cherish every moment.

I also came to some realizations. A life well lived doesn’t have to look like an action movie, a highlight reel, or anything fancy or complicated.

Oftentimes, the most fulfilling moments are simple. Kissing your partner, watching the sunset, walking in the woods, going to the beach, creating art, dancing in your kitchen, doing a small act of kindness for someone, etc.

A life well lived is different for everyone.

That’s why the best way to explore it is to use some questions as journaling prompts.

7 Questions for a Life Well Lived

Note: You can use these questions as journaling prompts, or just contemplate them. Either way, they’re designed to spark deeper insights and point you toward your best life.

1) What advice would the 80 year old version of myself give to me right now?

Imagine you get to have a conversation with the older, wiser version of you.

They have already lived a great, fulfilling life. They know everything about you (because they ARE you). What advice would they give to you now?

2) How can I make the most of this very moment?

This question takes away all of the farfetched dreams and bucket list items, and grounds you into the present moment.

It’s a simple and practical way to become more mindful, cherish your life right now, and maybe do something more interesting with your day.

3) What unique blend of skills would I be top 1% in the world at?

We’re all the best in the world at something. Usually it’s a combination of things.

For me, it’s a blend of writing, spirituality, marketing, imagination and curiosity. That unique blend is MY THING. That’s why I’m a copywriter. It’s also why I write fiction.

Find your unique blend that you’re a master of. Claim it. Own it. Even if it seems a little weird at first.

4) How can I brighten someone’s day today?

Think about how you can brighten someone’s day today. Look for opportunities to do this.

Even the smallest acts of kindness for other people can be incredibly fulfilling and transformative.

Examples: Paying for someone’s coffee, giving a stranger a genuine compliment, calling a friend or family member, giving a surprise gift, etc.

5) What simple things am I grateful for today?

Gratitude is a game-changer.

When you feel gratitude, you build positive momentum and open doors to new opportunities in life.

Focus on what you’re grateful for today. It can be the big things in life, or the little things. Even feeling gratitude for simply being alive is powerful.

6) How do I want to be remembered?

This is a powerful reminder.

How do you want people to remember you? If you live your life based on this question, you will always be aligned with your highest path.

7) What do I need to let go of to get to my next level?

This is an interesting one.

We’re all holding onto things that are blocking us.

It could be beliefs, stories, people, situations, jobs… anything.

What are you holding onto that’s blocking you from getting to your next level? Be honest with yourself.

Hint: The biggest blocks are the internal ones (fears, doubts, worries, judgments, shame, anger, hatred, comparison, greed, lust, pride, regret, an old sense of identity, etc).

Your Life Is Yours

May you live your best life, here and now.

Much love,
Stephen Parato