(Distinctions are subtleties of language that, when gotten, cause a shift in a belief, behavior, value or attitude.)

 

The images of great life-styles are all around us. TV, newspapers and magazines, our neighbors and peers, and the programming we received from our parents and their generation, all have given us pictures of the Life-style we “should” aspire to.

But what about having a life? What’s the difference between a Life and a Life-style?

A Life-style is based on external objects and activities. It is dependent on society’s standards which are variables that can lead to rollercoaster emotions and an uncomfortable feeling of disquiet and not “fitting in”.

On the other hand when you put your attention and energy into having the life you’re here to have you feel energized and strong because your actions are based on your personal standards and values. What matters to you, is what matters. When you run your life this way you find that things come to you naturally and easily, and results are sustainable. You feel strong and steady.

The phrase “get a life” is not just a cliche. It’s recognition that chasing a life-style is simply too expensive and is generally based on unmet needs.

Build your life first and a deeply satisfying life-style will be the by-product.

Bonus quote: “How many cares one loses
when one decides not to be something
but decides to be someone.” Coco Chanel

 

Copyright 1998 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.