For one to live an easier life, we must presume life is difficult to begin with. Life can be very difficult, and fraught with stress, illness, family discord, unemployment, and other external stresses. Dr. Carl Hammerschlag, an author of numerous books, eloquently states, It is not the event in life that cause stress, it is how we approach the event. Our perceptions and our approach impact our current stress level, as well as our future path. Life can be easier; the responsibility is directly on us.

When we get stuck in a pattern of distorted perceptions, this is very difficult to change. We frequently complain about our job, our pay, the school systems, and health care. What do we do from a pro-active perspective to change the current situation? Patterns are indeed hard to break. To live an easier life we must approach it from a different perspective, a different frame of reference. If we do not, there will be no improvement. The grass is not greener on the other side; however, we can learn to plant new seeds right where we are at.

An easier life appears to be comprised of a few basic consistencies. Stop trying to achieve the highest rung on the ladder of life. It leads to distorted perceptions of happiness. Do not settle for complacency in your life. Risk, fail, and risk again; try new ventures, even if it just outside your neighborhood. It does not have to be an expensive trip; it can be a new path you walk, a group you have thought about joining. Look for positives by reflecting on your childhood. When you were a child, many new experiences were exciting, fun and wonderful. Try to be child-like, it makes a world of difference in happiness, and makes you perception of life easier and fun. Do not confuse this with irresponsibility; be responsible, but less serious. Pay the bills, get the chores done, but appreciate the simplest treasures you have.

The more we own, the more those items own us. Dump some of your possessions, attempt a simpler lifestyle. We make our own lives too complex. Worry and rumination about the future will not get you through the present any happier. Stay in the present. If you are going to be with someone, or be somewhere then be there one-hundred-percent.

Appreciate the fact that you are able to pay the bills, have a roof over your head and warmth of a blanket at night. We have become a soft society. We take the basics for granted, expect more, and want it right now. That in itself complicates life and adds stress. One must want an easier life and want to make concessions, if they will truly succeed. This also restates the previously mentioned concerns. Many want an easier life, complain their current life is too stressful, too complicated, however no change is implemented.

Change can occur, an easier life is obtainable, and it has been within your grasp all along. As Dorothy always had her ruby slippers, you have always had the ability to create an easier life. Reassess your qualities, your desires, and your passion. Happiness and an easier life, is as simple as a smile, handshake, or recognizing the simple treasures you have. Imagine the ladder to success is broken, stand up on your toes, look in the mirror and remember when your life was less stressful. There is your answer, go try on some red shoes; they may take you back to a time of reality and peace.

Learn more about this author, Dan Williams.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about How to live an easier life?
We want to hear your view. Write now!