Are you living somebody else’s story? Or are you writing your own?
Knowing the difference can be the key to surviving Vancouver.
Here at Float House Gastown, our founders Andy and Mike Zaremba are all about opening people’s minds up to new experiences and helping them set their own path towards inner peace.
Recently, we offered Ashley Wiles of Sole Girls a float, and a chance to share her wisdom with Mike on our regular #VancouverSurvivalGuide podcast.
Sole Girls runs programs for girls aged 8-12 that “change the story” of what society tells girls they can achieve.
Ashley and Mike agreed that to survive and thrive, adults can also change their values and perceptions to set themselves on a healthier path.
But how can adults “change their story”?
Be a Detective
No, you don’t have to don a trench coat. Instead, be a self-detective and learn more about who you are, what you’re passionate about, and what excites you. As Mike says, “perfection is in perception,” so understand your true perspective. As Ashley says, the best medicine is to be yourself - so get to know you.
Set Goals
These have to be more than New Year’s resolutions like losing weight. Dig deep for what you truly want to change about yourself or your life. Then, create a plan and put pen to paper.
Be Active (but have fun)
Being active isn’t about punishing yourself at the gym – it’s about finding a more holistic approach to daily activity. Activity is good for your physical and mental well-being, especially when you do something unstructured and fun. “As adults, I think we forgot how to actually play and just have fun,” Ashley says.
Join a Village
They say it takes a village to raise a child, but it also takes one to raise a chill adult. You don’t have to go it alone. Be part of a community. Understand what activities you like and you’re sure to find a meet-up group that shares your passion. Being part of a community also keeps you accountable.
Find Your Yoda (and be one too!)
A mentor is different from family. Family can be amazing, but you also have this weird internal history with them. Get out of your fishbowl and speak with someone you respect, and who can be a valuable sounding board.
