Making changes doesn’t always have to be drastic nor will the results always be dramatic. Sometimes it’s the little things we do everyday that make the biggest difference in the end. For example, many people start off the New Year with good intentions of getting back into shape – so they’ll sign up for a gym membership or they’ll try a new diet. But as the weeks and months go by, those intentions may fall to the wayside of busyness, neglect, or discouragement.
I believe making small efforts everyday like choosing to take the stairs instead of the elevator, going for a simple walk during your break rather than to the gym after work, or having the willpower to say ‘no’ to the cookie will impact your health in the long run. Making changes doesn’t have to be painful it’s simply about making small positive choices everyday. So remember, every little bit will help whether it’s exercising, eating healthy, or being kind to someone.
©2015 Susie Lee
There will be days when you’re not feeling your best, when you’d rather stay in bed than face the day. Some days living your best just might mean trying to make it through the day. And that’s ok. Be gentle and kind to yourself during these times for it’s the loving thing you can do. I know you may not believe it today but brighter days are just ahead.
©2015 Susie Lee
It’s a waste of time comparing ourselves to others and how we don’t measure up to them physically, materially, or socially. Fact is there will always be someone younger, prettier (handsome), smarter, funnier, and richer than us. And when we compare ourselves with others, we’ll find ourselves on a dead end road to self-pity, misery, and self-loathing. The solution isn’t to lock ourselves in our homes and not see a single soul ever again.
One of the ways we can combat this temptation of comparison is to foster an attitude of gratitude for our strengths, natural abilities, and unique features. Not only is it important to magnify our strengths but it’s also important to embrace our weaknesses because it gives us a realistic and holistic acceptance of who we are (our strengths along with our weaknesses). It shatters the delusion of perfection and the unhealthy obsession to pursue it in our bodies, careers, and relationships. Life isn’t perfect but we can choose to see these little imperfections as life’s beauty marks in us and in our lives.
©2015 Susie Lee
Happiness is something most people want in life. Many have tried to find it in relationships or tried to buy it in stores. Unfortunately, true lasting happiness can’t be purchased or earned but rather it’s an attitude we create and carry within us. It starts by approaching life with gratitude and appreciating the beauty around us. Our thoughts and attitude will determine the level of our happiness. No matter where you’re at in life, I encourage you to take this 30-Day No Fail Happiness Challenge! If you do, I’d love to hear how it’s going!
©2014 Susie Lee
Every once in a while, I like to leave my phone at home or take a day off from it. Being disconnected from my gadget helps me to be in the moment and be present to those around me. It’s easier to be fully present as I’m not distracted to check my phone or be interrupted by a beep of a text or the ring of an incoming call.
This summer, I challenge you to put your phone away for a few days and to make memories that no one else knows about – memories you don’t have to capture, tag, or post… memories that are just yours. Experience things for what they are rather than losing the moment by trying to take the perfect picture. If you must take a picture, then take it with the lens of your eye rather than with the lens of your camera. Embrace and enjoy the moment.
I leave you with this challenging and creative video by Gary Turk: LOOK UP
Have a great summer!
©2014 Susie Lee
My Korean name means ‘summer’ or ‘sunshine’, and fitting for me as summer used to be my favourite season when I was younger. One of my fondest childhood memories was spending the whole day at the beach with my family. We’d either have a Korean BBQ or get a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken with a bag of Okanagan peaches, cherries, or watermelon. I loved being in my bathing suit all day long – feeling the warm air against my skin, swimming in the ocean, and slowly drying off in the hot sun. My summer days were long, relaxed, and carefree – full of freedom and simplicity. At the end of the day, I’d usually fall asleep on the car ride home and climb straight into bed with my swim suit, still feeling the radiant warmth from my sun parched skin.
I’ve learned some of the best experiences in life are free and simple. Here are a few creative ideas to keep your summer affordable. No excuses, get out there and have fun!
©2014 Susie Lee
living your best 