So it’s a little bit late, but I’ve spent the first few days of 2016 hiding out in the forest thinking about life and the universe and how to throw myself forward into the new year. 2015 was a year full of intensity, massive highs and crushing lows; I had my heart broken, fell in love over and over with people, places, life and the universe; had crazy adventures, travelled the world, made the best music of my career and can truly say I lived life to the full. Heading into the new year, I wanted to think about the things I’ve learned on my journeys to remember as rules to live by, some goals to aim for and a little drop of inspiration for the darker days as I continue to grow and learn.
1. Build a life you don’t need to escape from. It’s not a myth. You are in control of the way you live your life, so create an environment that feeds your soul and makes you want to get out of bed in the morning.
2. Create your own happiness. If you leave it up to others, you’ll always be let down.
3. Realise everything is temporary - relationships, feelings and materialism, your relationship with yourself is the one constant, so take care of it.
4. Travel. Wander until you’re lost. That’s how adventures are made.
5. Show kindness and appreciation to others. Don’t take for granted people who truly care about you, they might be the people you least expect.
6. Give more energy to your dreams than to your fears.
Saying that, if something scares you, jump in head first. Step out of your comfort zone.
7. Put yourself first. Feed your soul. Change starts within. You are a part of the earth, healing yourself is a step towards global change and you must start within before healing the world.
8. Don’t be afraid to love. Open your heart and give it fully. You’ll never regret loving too much.
9. Don’t waste energy on negativity. What you let your mind cultivate is in your control, if you fixate on negativity, it is what will come back to you.
10. Work hard. Talent means nothing without drive, passion, work ethic and commitment.
11. Learn, listen and meditate with an open mind.
12. Appreciate the small things. Don’t let materialism consume you. Look for the beauty in the sunrise, the stillness of the night, deep conversations with a stranger, even a passing smile. Live without luxury and the small things will begin to seem more significant.
13. Be graceful. It’s okay to let go and walk away from the things that aren’t right for you. Sometimes it’s best to let those you love walk away than to keep them close. Whatever is meant to be will come back to you.
14. Remember it’s okay not to be perfect, you don’t have to be strong all the time. Those dark moments of struggle are where we find our strength.
15. Put your heart and soul into everything you do.
