Take Meaningful Pictures, Not Just Any Pictures

We all have phones that are more sophisticated than the computers that launched humans into space, and we use them to capture moments. But what kind of moments are we capturing? Is it the classic bathroom selfie or the adorable shot of your dog in mid-air?

I get it; you find a mural that screams "Instagram worthy," or a plate of perfectly arranged avocado toast that begs to be boomeranged. You pose and filter your photos to perfection. But here's the kicker: that meticulously crafted selfie took you ages to perfect, while you missed the chance to document your friend's hilarious laugh over brunch—something a filter can't replicate.

So, here's a thought: Are we truly experiencing life, or merely collecting moments like trading cards? When you view your world through a tiny screen, you exchange genuine emotions for likes and hearts on social media. Have you ever caught yourself thinking, "This will make a great post" instead of "Wow, this moment really matters"?

I know I have.

When you pause to capture a moment, do you lose it? It feels like you become the curator of your life, organizing and showcasing it for others rather than simply living it. Life should be about experiencing, not merely displaying.

What I’ve learned is that living fully involves embracing moments—not for social media validation, but for your own enjoyment. It’s about your personal collection of bloopers, laughter, and even those awkward moments of joy.

Say "I Love You" and Mean It

We inhabit a culture that often equates vulnerability with weakness, as if showing emotion is something to be avoided. But when did expressing care become so unfashionable?

Have you noticed how people often flaunt emotional detachment like a new trend? It seems that not caring makes you appear stronger. But here's the reality: loving deeply is anything but weak. It's like a workout for your soul, strengthening you every time you dare to connect.

When was the last time you sincerely said "I love you"? This phrase has become so commonplace that it often loses its impact. Real power lies in expressing it without expecting anything in return—it's a gift that doesn't require a receipt.

I recall a visit to my favorite coffee shop, where I overheard a person with an infectious laugh. On my way out, I approached and said, "I love your laugh." Yes, it was awkward at first, but the smile that followed made it all worthwhile.

We often reserve "I love you" for romantic movies or family gatherings, but why? Is love rationed? Absolutely not. If you appreciate someone's laugh, their ideas, or even their mismatched socks—tell them. Love, after all, multiplies when shared.

Engage with People, Not Just Your Phone

I understand the allure of technology—it's convenient. Siri can tell you the weather, locate sushi, and even crack a few jokes. But here's the catch: she cannot replace real, messy human interaction.

Sure, Siri can remind you of important dates, but can she listen to your worries and fears? Probably not. She's practical but won't provide those exhilarating, unexpected moments that come from genuine human connections.

Every encounter with another person is a gamble. You might hit the jackpot or roll snake eyes, but either way, it adds an exciting twist to your life's story. A random conversation can lead to incredible insights or even new friendships.

One time, while waiting in line at the grocery store with a haul of ice cream, I struck up a conversation with the person behind me. It turned out they were new in town, a poet, and related to someone I knew from high school. What began as casual chit-chat over frozen treats evolved into an inspiring dialogue. How can you script such moments?

While Siri is useful for quick answers, it's the unpredictable interactions that enrich your life. So the next time you're hesitant to chat with someone, remember that your next great story could be just one conversation away.

Do What Scares You

Let’s be honest. Living in a predictable, safe bubble is like being background music—never stirring any emotions or excitement. You're not meant to live an elevator music kind of life, right?

Last Friday, a friend encouraged me to try stand-up comedy at an open mic. My heart raced, but with a little liquid courage, I took the plunge. The result? A spectacular flop—think crickets and tumbleweeds. But guess what? The world didn’t end. No asteroid hit Earth because of my comedic fail. So why not confront your fears?

Fear often acts like a bouncer at the entrance to "What If" Land, providing endless excuses to keep you out: "What if you fail? What if people judge you?" But here’s a secret: the most incredible experiences lie just beyond that bouncer.

What you perceive as terrifying often holds transformative potential. Every moment of "I can't believe I just did that!" usually follows a moment of doubt.

So kick down the door of your comfort zone. In the end, you'll either have a fantastic story or a lesson that sticks with you. Either way, it’s a win.

Live Fully, Don’t Hold Back

Imagine your life as a binge-worthy series. How boring would it be if, halfway through, the characters just sat down and said, "Well, we’ve peaked"? Ridiculous, right? Yet, that’s exactly what happens when we believe we've exhausted all possibilities in life.

Sometimes, thoughts creep in like, "Does anything I do even matter?" But here's the truth: it’s not always about the future; it’s about the present. It’s about feeling the thrill, the pain, the joy, and everything in between. You might not earn a trophy, but you’ll have a story worth telling.

Your narrative is more valuable than you realize. Keep adding those plot twists, love interests, and cliffhangers. Trust me, people will want to hear about it.

Write Your Unforgettable Story

Here's the truth—when you're 90, or even next week, will you reflect and wish you had played it safe? Spoiler alert: No. What you’ll long for are those exhilarating moments that made you feel truly alive, even if they terrified you.

Society pushes us toward safety, stability, and predictability—sounds good in theory, but it's not legendary. No one gathers around a fire to recount the times they avoided risk. Let’s turn life into a carnival instead of a waiting room.

You don't need a New Year to initiate change. All it takes is a single moment, and you have one right now. Seize it. Craft your life into a story so compelling that even the most jaded executive would say, "That’s something special."

Your life story isn’t written by missed opportunities. Make it unforgettable, irreplaceable, and unapologetically yours. The best story ever told? It begins and ends with you. Don’t let it gather dust; share it with the world.

Marianne Williamson discusses the importance of embracing life and spiritual growth on "It's F*cking Spiritual" podcast.

Tara Schuster shares insights on creating a fulfilling life in her talk "Buy Yourself the F*cking Lilies."