Life can be messy sometimes. We all have moments when we feel like everything is falling apart, and we don’t know how to put it back together. If you’re nodding your head right now, know that you’re not alone.
Getting your life together is a process that starts with small, manageable steps. It starts with understanding yourself, setting goals, and making positive changes that align with your values and dreams.
In this article, I will show you that you already have everything you need to start transforming your life today.
Table of Contents
- Assess Your Current Situation
- Write Down and Prioritize Your Goals
- Create a Vision of Your Future Self
- Discover Your Passions
- Create an Action Plan with Manageable Steps
- Adopt a Positive Mindset
- Commit to Your Well-being
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
- Practice Self-Care
- Declutter and Organize Your Environment
- Create a Financial Plan and Budget
- Master Time Management Skills
- Establish and Stick to a Daily Routine
- Overcome Procrastination
- Commit to Lifelong Learning and Growth
- Cultivate Strong, Supportive Relationships
- Find a Mentor or Support System
- Identify and Distance Yourself from Toxic People
- Set Boundaries and Learn to Say “No”
- Practice Mindfulness and Stress Reduction
- Focus on What You Can Control
- Let Go of What You Can’t Change
- Extend Self-Compassion and Forgiveness
- Take Time for Yourself
- Reflect on and Celebrate Your Wins
- Give Yourself Time to Heal from Setbacks
- Create a Vision Board for Inspiration
- Be Honest with Yourself
- Practice Gratitude
- Evaluate and Adjust Your Plans
- More Insights from the Experts
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
Assess Your Current Situation
Before you can start getting your life together, take a step back and assess your current situation. Take some time to reflect on various aspects of your life, such as your career, relationships, health, and personal growth.
Ask yourself questions like: Are you satisfied with your job? Do you feel fulfilled in your relationships? Are you taking care of your physical and mental well-being? Be honest with yourself, even if it’s uncomfortable.
This self-assessment will give you a clear picture of your current situation and help you identify areas for improvement.
"Determine what you have going for you and what areas need to be improved. Put it on paper so that you can see it in black and white. When you address the situation honestly and directly, you can find your way out."
— Charlene Walters, MBA, PhD | Writer and Speaker | Business & Branding Mentor, Own Your Other
Write Down and Prioritize Your Goals
Once you’ve assessed your current situation, it’s time to set some goals. I think this is one of the most important steps in getting your life together. Start by writing down all the things you want to achieve, both short-term and long-term.
Not all goals are created equal; remember to differentiate:
- Short-term vs long-term: Sort your goals into what you can achieve soon and what might take a bit longer.
- Impact: Which goals will make the most significant difference in your life?
- Feasibility: Consider your resources and time. Which goals are realistic?
After you’ve listed your goals, prioritize them based on their importance and urgency. This will help you focus your energy on what matters most. Remember, it’s okay to have a mix of big and small goals—the key is to make them specific, measurable, and achievable.
"Make a plan, including an organized change. In order to get your life together you can’t begin making random, disorganized or chaotic change. You need deliberate, organized change so that you can take one step at a time.
Start from the top—where do you perceive your shortcomings to be and where would you like your life to improve? Once you’ve answered those questions, you can begin to identify ways to correct the shortcomings and improve your day-to-day life.
— Jamie Bacharach | Licensed Medical Acupuncturist and Health Coach | Head of Practice, Acupuncture Jerusalem
Create a Vision of Your Future Self
Now that you’ve assessed your current situation and set your goals, close your eyes and imagine yourself in 5, 10, or even 20 years. What does your ideal life look like? Where do you see yourself living? What kind of work are you doing? Who are the people in your life?
Creating a clear vision of your future self gives you something to work towards and helps you stay focused on your goals, even when things get tough. My personal favorite way to do this is by creating a vision board.
Collect images, quotes, and other visual representations of your ideal life and put them together in a collage. Place it somewhere you’ll see it every day, like your bedroom or office, as a constant reminder of what you’re working towards.
"[...] create a powerful, emotional, and meaningful vision for where you want to be one to five years from now. It should seem out of reach. Don’t think about it; just do it. This will become your “why” – your motivation – for making progress."
— Rob Magill, MA, ICAADC, CCPG, DOT-SAP, LPCT | Founder, Magill Counseling Associates, LLC | BHI Certified Tele-behavioral Health Practitioner
Discover Your Passions
When you’re passionate about something, it gives you a sense of purpose and makes life more fulfilling. Take some time to explore different hobbies, interests, and activities. Don’t be afraid to try new things—you never know what might spark your passion!
- Reflect on joyful activities: What activities make you forget to check your phone?
- Listen to feedback: Friends or family often notice what lights you up. What do they say?
- Revisit old interests: Maybe you loved collecting stamps or dancing as a kid. Why not try them again?
Remember, your passions don’t necessarily have to be your career. It’s okay to have a day job and pursue your passions on the side. The important thing is to make time for the things that light you up and bring meaning to your life.
"You most likely have spent the majority of your life looking for answers and solutions externally. It is time for you to look internally. Take the time to find out what is important to you with some self-questioning…
When are you happiest? When are you most productive? What are you doing now that you wish you were not doing? What are some things that are preventing your life from being together?"
— Nghia Le, MSW | Life Coach, Specs Coaching
Create an Action Plan with Manageable Steps
Breaking down your goals into manageable steps makes them feel less overwhelming and more achievable. Start by looking at your list of prioritized goals and choose one to focus on first.
- Set clear milestones: What are the major steps to reach your goal?
- Establish deadlines: Give each step a realistic time frame.
- Allocate resources: Identify what tools, funds, or help you’ll need for each step.
By breaking your goal down into smaller, actionable steps, you’ll be more likely to stay motivated. This approach also keeps you from feeling overwhelmed and helps you track your progress. But keep in mind that if something in your plan isn’t working, it’s okay to adjust it.
"Determine what you can do daily to meet that goal. It can be specific, like exercise for 30 minutes each day. It can also be more flexible: spend 30 minutes studying for a certification. If you’re feeling mainly stuck or overwhelmed, a mind map may help: • Write down everything you need to do. Don’t worry about having it in any order. Just get it on paper. Identify a handful of big themes to the list. It could be Work, House, Family, etc. Write these on a piece of paper. • Spread them out far apart and draw a circle around each word. Now, fill in around these circles other things from your list. Draw circles around them. Connect them to the circles they connect to. Repeat this process until everything from the list is on the paper. • Look at the results. Does something have more connections than other items? That might need to get done first to have the most progress fast. If so, make that your focus. Not everything will be important or time-sensitive. Those things can probably wait. Focus on the important, urgent matters that will move things forward for you. Following these two processes will provide clarity, direction, and guidance on how to start getting your life back on track." — Rob Magill, MA, ICAADC, CCPG, DOT-SAP, LPCT | Founder, Magill Counseling Associates, LLC | BHI Certified Tele-behavioral Health Practitioner
Adopt a Positive Mindset
Adopting a positive mindset can help you remain resilient in the face of setbacks and maintain motivation when times are tough.
One way to do this is by reframing negative thoughts. When you catch yourself thinking something negative, try to find a more positive or realistic way to look at the situation.
For example, instead of thinking, “I’ll never be able to do this,” try saying, “This is challenging, but I’m capable of learning and improving with practice.”
Focusing on the good in your life helps shift your perspective and makes it easier to face challenges with a positive attitude. And by changing the way you talk to yourself, you can gradually train your brain to think more positively.
Commit to Your Well-being
Committing to your well-being is a crucial aspect of getting your life together. I mean, how can you expect to achieve your goals and live your best life if you’re not taking care of yourself?
Think of it this way: if you’re running on an empty stomach, you won’t have the energy or mental clarity to tackle your goals and passions. So, make a commitment to prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional health.
This might mean setting aside time for regular exercise, practicing stress-management techniques, or seeking support from a therapist or counselor when needed. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for your overall success and happiness.
"Work equally on health, wealth and relationships. Our life is divided into three main parts; health, wealth, and relationships. When something awful happens in any of them, it affects other areas too and makes us unstable.
So, the best thing you could do is keep a balance between them to get your life together. Start planning your days to get the most out of your life. Divide the day into three parts.
• Devote time for your physical and mental health by taking a nutritious diet, exercising, yoga, and meditation.
• Start spending quality time with your family and friends, and at this time, stop scrolling your newsfeed, responding to emails, or doing any professional work.
• Do the work with high spirits and keep an eye on the future."
— Tyler Sellers | CEO & Editor-in-Chief, Total Shape
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Here’s the fun part—actually living out your health goals! Maintaining a healthy lifestyle goes hand in hand with committing to your well-being. When you take care of your body, you’ll feel better both physically and mentally.
Here are some simple ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle:
- Limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking.
- Get enough sleep each night (aim for 7-9 hours).
- Stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day.
- Exercise regularly, even if it’s just a short walk around the block.
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Remember, small changes can add up to big results over time. Don’t try to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight. Instead, focus on making one small change at a time and building from there.
"There is nothing more important than taking care of yourself. Incorporate a fitness routine, eat healthy meals, and be sure to get enough rest every night.
Don’t neglect your spiritual, emotional, and intellectual needs, either. When you take care of yourself, you’re better able to accept all that life throws at you, both good and bad."
— Charlene Walters, MBA, PhD | Writer and Speaker | Business & Branding Mentor, Own Your Other
Practice Self-Care
Practicing self-care means taking intentional steps to nurture your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. As we talked about earlier, getting your life together can be a challenging process, and it’s important to take care of yourself along the way.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Take a relaxing bath or shower.
- Read a book or listen to a podcast.
- Spend time in nature.
- Connect with loved ones.
- Engage in a creative hobby, like painting or writing.
- Practice mindfulness or meditation.
Self-care can look different for everyone. The key is to find activities that help you feel recharged and rejuvenated. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s an important part of maintaining your well-being and being your best self in all areas of life.
Declutter and Organize Your Environment
Starting with a clear space can literally clear your mind. Tidying up your physical space can greatly improve your focus and productivity, making it easier to get your life together.
How do you start? Start small by choosing one room or area at a time. Sort through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Be honest with yourself about what you truly need and use—just because something has sentimental value doesn’t mean it needs to take up space in your life.
As you declutter, consider implementing storage solutions like shelves or baskets to keep your things organized and easily accessible. Remember, decluttering is an ongoing process. Make a habit of regularly assessing your space and letting go of items that no longer serve you.
"[...] cleaning your room is a step in getting your life together. How can you expect to get your entire life together if your room/direct environment isn’t even together? Make your bed, pick up your dirty clothes, sweep the floor, and dust your room.
Then continue to keep it clean. Wake up every morning and make your bed. Only after you’ve cleaned the space around you can you start to clean up the more abstract space of your entire life."
— Adina Mahalli | Mental Health Consultant And Relationship Expert | Founder, Enlightened Reality
Create a Financial Plan and Budget
Creating a financial plan and budget is a necessary step in getting your life together. When you have a clear understanding of your income and expenses, you can make informed decisions about how to allocate your resources and work towards your financial goals.
Tips for creating a successful budget:
- Be realistic about your income and expenses.
- Prioritize essential expenses like housing, food, and transportation.
- Set aside money for savings and emergencies.
- Allow for some flexibility and fun money.
- Review and adjust your budget regularly.
Here’s what you can do: Start by tracking your spending for a month or two. Write down every purchase you make, no matter how small. Once you understand your spending habits, you can successfully create a budget that aligns with your income and priorities.
"Learn what you value. Dedicate some time to looking at your spending and your schedule and determine the expenses and activities that truly bring you joy and those that don’t.
Then create boundaries that allow you to say no to things you feel obligated to do. There will always be things we have to do that we’d rather not but the earlier you can say “no” to things you don’t like and don’t need, the more financial security and freedom you’ll have to say “yes” to the things you want."
— Jen Smith | Creator, ModernFrugality.com | co-host of the Frugal Friends Podcast
Master Time Management Skills
Ever feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day? When you effectively manage your time, you can prioritize your tasks, meet your goals, and maintain a sense of balance.
One way to improve your time management skills is by using the Eisenhower Matrix. This tool helps you prioritize your tasks based on their urgency and importance. Here’s how it works:
- Urgent and Important: Tasks that require immediate attention, such as deadlines or emergencies.
- Important but Not Urgent: Tasks that are important for your long-term goals but don’t have a pressing deadline, such as learning a new skill or exercising.
- Urgent but Not Important: Tasks that require immediate attention but don’t necessarily align with your goals, such as answering non-essential emails or attending unproductive meetings.
- Neither Urgent nor Important: Tasks that don’t contribute to your goals and can be eliminated or delegated, such as mindless scrolling on social media.
"If you want to start making the most of every day, the first step is implementing a system for maximizing your effective work hours. The reality is that nobody has the ability to create more time in the day, but everyone can control how they use their time.
Here is a simple 5-step, yet high-impact approach to getting the most out of every day:
• Identify. Limit your list to no more than 10 items every day. [...] focus on the 10 things that absolutely must get done. If you get through them, then sure, go find some other things to do. But know (and do) your top 10 first.
• Prioritize. [...] do the most important, least attractive item on your list first. Get it out of the way, get it out of your mind, rather than having it loom over you all day long.
Once that’s done, tackle the other two top priorities before you do anything else, so that your first and best energy of the day goes to your three most important tasks – and those tasks always get done, every day.
• Allocate. There is no more powerful way to use your time than to allocate it effectively in order to achieve your goals. [...] Besides time, you also should make sure you have the money and people you can allocate priorities to.
• Implement. Executing your plan is often the hardest part. The key here is to understand that perfection isn’t usually attainable, and that to a certain degree, “good enough” is good enough.
• Delegate. The last step is the three Ds: delegation, deletion, and deferring. You should have a “not to do” list—the list of things that aren’t your job, though they may be important. When you get the point where you are doing items that are on your “not to do” list, it’s time to start delegating, deleting or deferring."
— Rod Santomassimo, CCIM | Founder and President, Massimo Group, LLC
Establish and Stick to a Daily Routine
Starting your day knowing exactly what you need to do, when, and for how long brings a sense of predictability and control to your life. Start by outlining what a typical day looks like for you.
Here are some tips to establish a daily routine:
- Consistency is key: Try to wake up and go to bed at the same time each day.
- Break it down: Schedule specific time blocks for different activities.
- Be flexible: Allow some room for unexpected events or shifts in your day.
Sticking to a routine doesn’t mean your day can’t have an element of surprise or spontaneity. Instead, it just means the essential parts of your day are in place, so you’re better equipped to handle whatever else comes your way. The best part? You’ll end the day feeling accomplished.
"It’s vital to always seek balance in life, in every aspect—health, relationships, work. This is an active and constant process, and although challenging at times, it becomes easier as you make it part of your daily life. This process ultimately becomes a habit, a constant, and dynamic process of balance in every situation that arises. As we actively practice this process, it becomes easier, and eventually, it becomes natural. Just like breathing." — Dr. Jenelle Kim | Founder and Lead Formulator, JBK Wellness Labs
Overcome Procrastination
We’ve all been there—putting off tasks we know we need to do, and somehow, that ‘later’ never comes. Start by understanding why you procrastinate. Is it fear of failure, or perhaps the task seems too daunting? Once you know why, you can face it head-on.
One strategy for overcoming procrastination is to use the Pomodoro Technique. This involves working on a task for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break. After completing four Pomodoros, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. This technique can help you stay focused and avoid burnout, making it easier to face even the most challenging tasks.
"Stop wasting time. Never ask a person with free time to do something for you. People with free time tend to procrastinate and waste time more than busy people do, because productivity breeds more productivity and healthy habits are more productive than unhealthy ones.
Make sure to fill your free time with productive activities and build yourself a 9-to-5 schedule that is loaded with tasks that help you work towards your long- and short-term goals."
— Jamie Bacharach | Licensed Medical Acupuncturist and Health Coach | Head of Practice, Acupuncture Jerusalem
Commit to Lifelong Learning and Growth
The world is constantly changing, and keeping your knowledge and skills updated is essential for staying on top of your game. Reflect on areas you’re curious about or skills that could enhance your personal or professional life.
There are countless ways to pursue lifelong learning, such as:
- Reading books or articles on topics that interest you.
- Taking online courses or attending workshops.
- Seeking out mentors or experts in your field.
- Trying new hobbies or activities.
- Traveling to new places and immersing yourself in different cultures.
Cultivate Strong, Supportive Relationships
Nothing beats having people by your side, especially when you’re trying to get your life together. Strong, supportive relationships provide comfort, motivation, and accountability.
Start by evaluating your current relationships:
- Which ones give you energy, and which ones drain it? Focus on those that boost your spirits and encourage your growth.
- To cultivate strong relationships, start by being a good friend yourself. Show up for the people in your life, both in good times and bad.
- Be a good listener, offer help when needed, and celebrate their successes as if they were your own.
Remember, strong relationships require time, effort, and vulnerability. Don’t be afraid to open up to the people you trust and let them know how much you appreciate them. And if a relationship isn’t serving you, it’s okay to set boundaries or let it go.
"Find support. Go out there and get the additional help you need. Whether it’s professional counseling, a support group, a life coach, or just more assistance from friends and relatives, ask for it. We all need help from time to time in life. It takes a village."
— Charlene Walters, MBA, PhD | Writer and Speaker | Business & Branding Mentor, Own Your Other
Find a Mentor or Support System
When you have someone who has been where you are and can offer guidance and support, it can make all the difference. I know it can be intimidating to reach out to someone you admire, but trust me, most people are happy to help!
So, what does finding a mentor or support system look like? It could be:
- Reaching out to someone in your field who you admire and asking for advice.
- Joining a professional organization or networking group in your industry.
- Finding an accountability partner who can help you stay on track with your goals.
- Seeking out a therapist or counselor to work through personal challenges.
Remember, a mentor or support system doesn’t have to be just one person—it can be a network of people who offer different types of support and guidance. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and want to see you succeed.
"I often suggest that a client find a mentor. This mentor doesn’t have to be someone that you discuss your issues, frustrations, or goals with. In fact, you don’t have to know this individual personally.
For example, it could be a well-known successful business person, an author, a fit person, or someone who has love in their life. You’ll need to study this person to some degree.
Read their book if they have one, watch them on TV, have coffee with them if possible, or observe them at work.
You can add different mentors as well until you have a “Board of Advisers,” in your mind that can guide you as you make decisions going forward."
— Lee Wilson | Relationship and Life Coach
Identify and Distance Yourself from Toxic People
Toxic people are those who bring negativity, drama, or stress into your life. They might constantly criticize you, drain your energy, or undermine your goals. I know it can be difficult to let go of these relationships when they’ve been a part of your life for a long time.
To identify toxic people in your life, pay attention to how you feel when you’re around them. Do they make you feel drained or unsupported? Do they constantly gossip or put others down? Do they never take responsibility for their actions or always play the victim?
Once you’ve identified a toxic person, set some boundaries. This might mean limiting your time with them, being assertive about your needs and expectations, or even ending the relationship altogether.
Set Boundaries and Learn to Say “No”
Boundaries are the limits we set for ourselves and others to protect our time, energy, and well-being. Without clear boundaries, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, burnt out, or taken advantage of.
One common area where boundaries are important is in our relationships. This could mean setting limits on how much time you spend with certain people, being clear about what you are and aren’t willing to do, or communicating your needs and expectations.
Every time you assertively set a boundary, you’re taking a stand for your own peace of mind. And surprisingly, people usually respect you more when they see you respect yourself!
Practice Mindfulness and Stress Reduction
When we’re stressed or overwhelmed, it’s difficult to think clearly, make good decisions, or enjoy life’s simple pleasures. That’s where mindfulness comes in.
Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the current moment without judgment. It means paying attention to your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings and accepting them as they are.
Some simple ways to practice mindfulness include:
- Taking a few deep breaths and focusing on the sensation of breathing.
- Going for a walk and paying attention to the sights, sounds, and smells around you.
- Savoring your food and noticing the flavors, textures, and aromas.
- Practicing yoga or meditation.
In addition to mindfulness, there are many other ways to reduce stress, such as exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and spending time in nature. The key is to find what works best for you and make it a regular part of your routine.
Focus on What You Can Control
Focusing on what you can control is a great mindset shift when it comes to getting your life together. So often, we waste time and energy worrying about things that are outside of our control, such as other people’s opinions or unexpected setbacks.
But when we focus on what we can control, we create positive change in our lives. Some things that are within your control include:
- Your thoughts and attitudes.
- Your actions and behaviors.
- Your responses to challenges and setbacks.
- The people you surround yourself with.
- The goals you set and the steps you take to achieve them.
When faced with a challenging situation, ask yourself, “What can I control in this moment?” Maybe you can’t control the outcome, but you can control your reaction and the steps you take moving forward.
"Dedicate yourself to being a stair stepper. Many people become paralyzed in terms of getting their life together as they want it. They are looking too far ahead, which often leads to anxiety and inaction.
That is why it is key to determine how you can accomplish what you want, then to determine where to start, and finally to simply make progress even if it is minor. Routinely ask yourself, “What can I do today to move toward my goal?”
It’s important to focus on the moment and being successful in the moment."
— Lee Wilson | Relationship and Life Coach
Let Go of What You Can’t Change
So often, we hold onto things that are outside of our control, such as past mistakes, other people’s opinions, or unexpected setbacks. But when we focus on these things, we create unnecessary stress and anxiety for ourselves.
There are many things in life that we simply can’t change, no matter how much we worry or obsess over them. Instead of dwelling on these things, it’s important to focus on what we can control, such as our thoughts, attitudes, and actions.
By letting go of what we can’t change, we free up mental and emotional space to focus on the things that truly matter.
Extend Self-Compassion and Forgiveness
Self-compassion is about treating yourself with kindness, understanding, and forgiveness. It’s about recognizing that you’re human and that it’s okay to be imperfect. When you make a mistake or experience a setback, instead of berating yourself, try speaking to yourself with compassion and understanding.
For example, let’s say you’ve been trying to eat healthier, but you gave in to a craving and ate a whole pint of ice cream. Instead of beating yourself up about it, try saying something like, “It’s okay. Everyone slips up sometimes. I’ll get back on track tomorrow.”
Take Time for Yourself
In today’s busy world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of daily life and forget to take care of ourselves. But when we neglect our own needs and desires, we risk burning out. Taking time for yourself can look different for everyone. It might mean:
- Taking a relaxing bath and reading a good book.
- Going for a hike in nature and enjoying the fresh air.
- Pursuing a hobby or creative project that brings you joy.
- Spending quality time with loved ones and having fun together.
I know it can be tough to carve out time for yourself, especially if you have a lot of responsibilities or people depending on you. But by taking time for yourself and, you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever challenges come your way.
Reflect on and Celebrate Your Wins
Often, we’re so focused on the end goal that we overlook the small triumphs along the way. Taking the time to reflect on these wins gives you a sense of achievement and can motivate you to keep going.
Celebrating your wins doesn’t have to be a big grand. It can be as simple as treating yourself to your favorite coffee, sharing your accomplishments with a friend, or taking a moment to feel pride and satisfaction. The key is to acknowledge your hard work and progress and use that positivity to keep moving forward.
"Enjoy the experience. Celebrate the fruits of your labor when you arrive at your destination. Too often, we forget to celebrate our accomplishments, or we dismiss them as "nothing much." You have worked to reach your goal, and you deserve to feel proud of your achievements."
— Carrie C. Mead, MS | Professional Life Coach & Usui Reiki Practitioner, Curiosity Life Coaching
Give Yourself Time to Heal from Setbacks
Setbacks are part of any growth process. How you handle these setbacks can either make you resilient or push you into discouragement. When facing a setback, give yourself time to heal. It’s okay to take a step back, gather your thoughts, and recharge before you go back into action.
Here’s what you can do:
- Process your emotions: Allow yourself to feel disappointment or frustration without judgment.
- Seek support: Talk to someone who can offer perspective and encouragement.
- Take constructive breaks: Sometimes, stepping away can provide the clarity needed to bounce back.
Remember, setbacks are a natural part of the journey. They don’t define you or your worth as a person. Remember, every setback is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and evolve even stronger than before.
Create a Vision Board for Inspiration
A vision board is a tangible representation of your dreams and goals, serving as a daily reminder of where you want to go. Gathering images, quotes, and symbols that resonate with your aspirations and displaying them visually can help keep your motivation alive.
- Choose images that inspire you: These can be photos of desired outcomes, aspirational places, or icons of success.
- Include motivational quotes: Words that stir positive emotions and drive can be powerful motivators.
- Update regularly: As your goals evolve, so should your vision board, keeping it relevant and inspiring.
Once you’ve created your vision board, display it somewhere you’ll see it regularly. Take a few moments each day to look at your vision board and visualize achieving your goals. Use it as motivation and inspiration to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough.
Be Honest with Yourself
Being honest with yourself, especially when facing challenging truths or uncomfortable emotions, can be tough. But when we’re not honest with ourselves, we limit our ability to grow, heal, and make positive changes in our lives.
Being honest with yourself means:
- Acknowledging your strengths and weaknesses.
- Taking responsibility for your actions and choices.
- Admitting when you’ve made a mistake or need help.
- Recognizing your true feelings and desires, even if they’re difficult to face.
I know being honest with yourself can be scary, especially if you’re afraid of what you might discover. But in my experience, the truth is always better than living in denial.
Practice Gratitude
Gratitude is about focusing on the good things in your life, no matter how big or small they may be. By regularly acknowledging and appreciating the positive aspects of your life, you condition your brain to look for the good and cultivate a more optimistic outlook.
One way to practice gratitude is by keeping a gratitude journal. Each day, take a few minutes to write down three things you’re grateful for. It could be anything from a delicious meal to a beautiful sunset. The key is to be specific.
Another way to practice gratitude is by expressing it to others. Take the time to thank the people in your life who make a positive difference. By spreading gratitude to others, you make them feel appreciated and reinforce your own sense of gratitude and connection.
"Write in a gratitude journal every day. Try to find something good in every situation. Slowly you’ll train your brain to focus more on the positive things that are happening (and trust me, they are taking place at the same time as the negative)."
— Charlene Walters, MBA, PhD | Writer and Speaker | Business & Branding Mentor, Own Your Other
Evaluate and Adjust Your Plans
As we’ve discussed throughout this article, getting your life together is an ongoing journey, not a one-time event. Along the way, it’s important to regularly assess your progress, celebrate your wins, and make adjustments as needed.
Take some time each week or month to reflect on your goals and the steps you’ve taken to achieve them. Ask yourself questions like:
- What’s working well, and what could be improved?
- Are my goals still aligned with my values and priorities?
- What new insights or challenges have emerged, and how can I adapt?
- What support or resources do I need to keep moving forward?
Based on your reflections, make any necessary adjustments to your plans or strategies. Remember, it’s okay to change course or try something new if your actions aren’t working. The key is to stay flexible, open-minded, and committed to your overall vision.
"The one constant in life is change. Change happens all of the time, and often, it occurs in an instant. This can be jarring and undoubtedly stressful, so, in these moments, it is vital to “move with the Tao.”
It is so important to be fluid even in tough situations. Instead of being like a stiff board that is hard, taut, and inflexible, which makes it possible to break, be like that of bamboo—strong but flexible so as not to break."
— Dr. Jenelle Kim | Founder and Lead Formulator, JBK Wellness Labs
More Insights from the Experts
“Set your intention, move with the Tao, and be grateful. I believe that one of the most important skills to attain in life is to have the ability to balance situations vs. trying to force them or back away from them. Knowing when to be hard and when to be soft.
I believe that there are three essential things to follow to get your life together and unlock the secret to a life of success:
- Truly set your mind & set your intention for what you wish to achieve in life.
- Go with the Tao (“the universe”/“the flow”) – set your “eyes” on the goal but be flexible and move with the universe as you get there.
- Be grateful – no matter how challenging a situation; gratitude has the power to help us rise above the challenging times that we are in; it allows us the ability to gain perspective and ground ourselves so that we can see clearly and act effectively.
Change is constant, so move with it.
I have been taught by my mentors that when it comes to career and relationships, there are only so many times in life when the door of opportunity shows up. Sometimes it’s three times in life, and sometimes it’s only once.
So, when you know it’s there, it’s so important to seize the opportunity, to be open-minded, to look at least five steps ahead. Work tirelessly, but be productive and have faith in the universe… There is only so much in our control.”
— Dr. Jenelle Kim | Founder and Lead Formulator, JBK Wellness Labs
“Take control. Develop action plans to address the areas of concern. You’re in the driver’s seat and can take positive steps to turn the situation around. Need a new job? Plot out the process you’ll take to get there. Not happy in your relationship? What actions can you take to improve it?”
— Charlene Walters, MBA, PhD | Writer and Speaker | Business & Branding Mentor, Own Your Other
“Determine where you are today (Point A) and where you want to be (Point B). Build your road map from Point A to Point B… Whichever way you choose, you still need to plan and beware of potential roadblocks and detours that can and will arise.”
— Carrie C. Mead, MS | Professional Life Coach & Usui Reiki Practitioner, Curiosity Life Coaching
“In summary, the steps to getting your life together: explore yourself, discover yourself, accept yourself, and finally adapt for yourself.”
— Nghia Le, MSW | Life Coach, Specs Coaching
“Learn to make simple decisions for complicated situations. […] embrace this reality of life: Sometimes there is no perfect answer, but being decisive and then committed to the decision usually brings the best result.
Sometimes the choice isn’t perfect, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t move forward in a powerful way with the choice you make.”
— Lee Wilson | Relationship and Life Coach
“Complete a task every day. Starting every day with a completed task will help you to be in the right headspace to complete more tasks throughout the day. Then since you’ve already identified what issues your life has, you’ll need to determine what steps you can take to get those issues resolved.”
— Adina Mahalli | Mental Health Consultant And Relationship Expert | Founder, Enlightened Reality
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I stay motivated when making changes to my life?
Stay motivated by setting clear and achievable goals, tracking your progress, and celebrating small victories along the way. Surround yourself with supportive people, and remember your “why” for making these changes.
What if I don’t know what my passions or goals are?
Take time to explore your interests and values. Try new activities, read books, attend workshops, or seek guidance from a life coach or therapist. Reflect on moments when you felt most fulfilled and happy, as these can provide clues to your passions.
Can a life coach or mentor really help me get my life together?
Yes, a life coach or mentor can provide guidance, accountability, and support as you work towards getting your life together. They can help you clarify your goals, develop action plans, and offer insights based on their own experiences and expertise.
What if I need extra support in getting my life together?
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when needed. Build a strong support system of friends, family, or professionals like therapists or life coaches. Surround yourself with positive influences and people who encourage and inspire you.
How long does it take to get your life together?
Getting your life together is an ongoing journey, not a one-time event. Progress may vary depending on your circumstances and goals. Focus on consistent effort and small improvements rather than a specific timeline.
Final Thoughts
Getting your life together is a brave and courageous thing to do. It means taking an honest look at yourself and your life and making changes that might scare you. But it’s also an incredibly rewarding journey.
As you move forward, don’t rush; don’t pressure yourself too hard. Celebrate your successes, learn from your mistakes, and keep pushing towards your goals. All you have to do is start and never give up. You’ve got this!