By Lena Edwards

How many times you catch yourself either reminiscing about what had already passed or dreaming of a better tomorrow? How many more times throughout your week you let yourself think that you're not going in the right direction or that your life isn't what you really imagined it to be. This is not unusual. At some stage of our existence we all tend to feel disappointed, bored or simply lack the focus and drive to allow ourselves to aim high and follow our desires. If you feel that way try to incorporate these easy rules into your everyday life and watch your attitude shift instantly:

• Rule Number One - Live your life today and live it so you won't have regrets tomorrow. Focus on the day ahead of you instead on the past that no longer can be changed. Also, don't procrastinate and leave things for the future. Try starting your day as if it is the only one in your life. Don't dwell on past failures, let go of your bad experiences and you will be able to continue on new adventures every day. Live your life by believing that everyone is dying and living each day and it is all up to you which one you choose to experience. Your life is ultimately in your hands so hope for tomorrow but live in today.
• Rule Number Two - Be happy about the tiniest of things. If you only see and appreciate the great achievements and experiences in your life you will miss out on noticing the greatness and value of the little things that come your way every day. Try approaching life with the curiosity of a child and patience of the wisest elder. Be an active observer of nature and draw strength from it's beauty. Enjoy your coffee in the morning as if it was the best selection of beans that have been gathered especially for you. Make your daily meals a feast for the senses... indulge your eyes and taste buds and appreciate every moment. See all the small things around you that normally go unnoticed. Life is made out of moments. When you think about your memories you will see that you remember not full days, not hours but single moments...
• Rule Number Three - Have direction in your life and follow the big picture. Don't live your life without purpose. Find out what is it exactly that you want to be doing, write out a plan and stick to it. If you don't know where you're going you will end up somewhere where you don't want to be. Having specific goals will help you feel like you are the captain of your own destiny and your ship is sailing prepared for the biggest of storms as it has a destination that you are passionate about. Make bettering yourself part of your spiritual affirmations. Take time to ask yourself the important questions... what do I really want? Am I missing something in my life? How can I change my current situation?
• Rule Number Four - Allow yourself to do what you please from time to time and enjoy being lazy without feeling guilty. Remember that it is crucial to occasionally do nothing for a change. If you're overworking yourself sooner or later you will either burn out or loose motivation to continue with your work. It is very important to create a healthy balance between work and play. Don't give up on your hobbies and interests. Incorporate activities that involve your family and friends. And after a day filled with 'me time' do not feel guilty as it will benefit other areas of your life as well.
• Rule Number Five - Strive for excellence not perfection. Allow yourself to make mistakes and learn from them. Also draw conclusions from failures of others. When trying to accomplish your desires always do your best and if that is still not getting you closer to your target improve until you reach your dream. Furthermore, remember that perfection is something unattainable and it leaves no room for improvement and further venturing. It is better to strive for excellence, your excellence!