By Life’s too short to just go through the motions.
We all have moments where we feel stuck in a rut, but when those moments stretch into weeks, months, or even years, it’s time for a wake-up call. If you’re wondering whether you’re truly living or simply existing, here are some signs to look out for.
1. You constantly postpone your dreams for a ‘better time’.
That trip you’ve always wanted to take? That hobby you’ve been meaning to start? If you’re always pushing these off to some mythical future when everything will be perfect, you’re not living in the present. Life doesn’t wait for the ideal moment — it’s happening right now. Start taking small steps towards your dreams today, even if they seem insignificant.
2. Your days blur together in a monotonous routine.
While routines can be comforting, if you can’t remember what you did last week because it was exactly the same as the week before, you might be stuck in a rut. Try shaking things up a bit. Take a different route to work, try a new cuisine, or spend an evening doing something completely out of character. Breaking the monotony can bring a fresh perspective to your life.
3. You’re always playing it safe and avoiding risks.
Growth and excitement often come from stepping out of your comfort zone. If you’re always choosing the safest option, whether in your career, relationships, or personal life, you might be missing out on opportunities for growth and fulfilment. Taking calculated risks can lead to new experiences and personal development.
4. You spend more time scrolling than engaging with real life.
Source: Unsplash Social media and endless content can be addictive, but if you’re spending hours each day mindlessly scrolling, you’re watching life happen instead of participating in it. Try setting limits on your screen time and use those extra hours to connect with people face-to-face, pursue a hobby, or simply be present in your surroundings.
5. You’re constantly comparing yourself to other people.
If you’re always measuring your life against other people’s, especially based on social media, you’re not living your own life. Remember, people usually show their highlight reels online, not their behind-the-scenes struggles. Focus on your own journey and what makes you happy, not what you think should make you happy based on anyone else’s standards.
6. You’ve stopped learning new things.
When was the last time you learned a new skill or explored a new idea? If you can’t remember, it might be time to shake things up. Learning keeps our minds active and engaged with the world around us. Pick up a book on a topic you know nothing about, take an online course, or try learning a new language. Continuous learning is a key part of truly living.
7. You’re always living for the weekend.
If you spend your weekdays just counting down to Friday, you’re missing out on a large chunk of your life. Try to find contentment and meaning in your daily routine. Look for ways to make your work more engaging, or find activities you enjoy during the week. Life is too short to only live for two days out of seven.
8. You’ve lost touch with your passions.
Remember those things that used to light you up inside? If you’ve let your passions fall by the wayside due to work, responsibilities, or simple neglect, it’s time to reconnect. Make time for the activities that bring you joy and make you feel alive. Even if it’s just for a few minutes a day, engaging with your passions can bring a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
9. You’re always saying ‘yes’ when you want to say ‘no’.
If you’re always agreeing to things you don’t want to do out of obligation or fear of disappointing people, you’re not living authentically. It’s okay to set boundaries and prioritise your own needs and wants. Learning to say ‘no’ can free up time and energy for the things that truly matter to you.
10. You’re stuck in past regrets or future anxieties.
Source: Unsplash Living means being present in the moment. If you’re constantly replaying past mistakes or worrying about what might happen in the future, you’re missing out on the here and now. Practise mindfulness techniques to help you focus on the present moment and appreciate what’s happening right now.
11. You’ve stopped dreaming big.
Source: Unsplash When was the last time you allowed yourself to have a truly audacious dream? If you’ve stopped imagining grand possibilities for your life, you might be settling for less than you deserve. Dare to dream big again. Even if you don’t achieve everything, having ambitious goals can give your life direction and excitement.
12. You’re not taking care of your physical health.
Source: Unsplash Neglecting your body through poor diet, lack of exercise, or insufficient sleep isn’t just existing — it’s existing poorly. Your physical health has a massive impact on your quality of life. Start making small, sustainable changes to prioritise your health. You’ll likely find you have more energy and enthusiasm for life as a result.
13. You’ve stopped expressing yourself creatively.
Source: Unsplash Creativity isn’t just for artists. Whether it’s through cooking, gardening, writing, or problem-solving at work, creative expression is a vital part of living fully. If you’ve stopped finding ways to express your creativity, try to reintroduce it into your life. It can be a source of joy and a way to connect with your inner self.
14. You avoid deep conversations.
Source: Unsplash If your interactions with people never go beyond small talk, you’re missing out on meaningful connections. Deep conversations about hopes, fears, dreams, and ideas are part of what makes life rich and interesting. Don’t be afraid to engage in more substantial dialogue with the people in your life.
15. You’re always busy but never productive.
Source: Unsplash Being constantly busy doesn’t necessarily mean you’re living a full life. If you’re always rushing from one task to another without a sense of purpose or accomplishment, you might be stuck in a cycle of busyness rather than productivity. Try to focus on meaningful tasks that align with your values and goals.
16. You’ve stopped appreciating the little things.
Source: Unsplash Life is made up of small moments as much as big events. If you’re always waiting for something major to happen to make you happy, you’re missing out on the joy that can be found in everyday experiences. Take time to savour your morning coffee, appreciate a beautiful sunset, or enjoy a good laugh with a friend. These small pleasures are what make life worth living.
