3 Life Mottos

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In my nineteen years of existence so far, I have come up with three life mottos to live by. Three short and simple ideas that capture my personality and character. I hope to accumulate more as I grow individually through life experiences, the people I meet, and the mistakes I make.

1. Positive outcomes only

This first quote was the one that started it all. It’s from the CW television show Hellcats. The members of the team wrote it on their arms to prepare for the competitions as an affirmative reminder and action. Life is full of uncertainty and challenges, and the one thing we always have control over is our mindset and attitude. I have days full of bad choices and results, but the next day always brings a new day.

2. Walking is great exercise

Growing up in San Francisco, my main mode of transportation was walking and taking the Muni. I didn’t need a license, so I got mine as late as I possibly could. From an environmentalist perspective, I am reducing my carbon footprint one step at a time. Walking is a form of exercise you can do anywhere, anytime, anyplace; all you need is the willingness to do it. It helps to bring a friend along to spend time with them and get in some exercise.

I also get this mantra from my mom. When she was pregnant with me, she walked twelve miles daily to help reduce backaches, the swelling, and to sleep peacefully at night. One of my favorite activities with her is our evening walks, where we go over our day and reminisce about my childhood. She constantly tells me new stories that I find hilarious and sentimental.

3. Dancing is healing

This is my latest addition to my growing list. I am completely obsessed with Sarah Dessen and her books. Naturally, when her newest book Once and For All came out this past June, I read it within a week. I like to savor every moment because she truly embodies the thoughts, actions, and emotions of every teenage girl. In the book, there are multiple dance scenes, and they all have something in common: dance unifies people into one. Whether it’s being a part of the conga, or my personal favorite the shimmy, dancing feeds the soul, clears the mind, and nourishes the body. I love that there is no right or wrong to dance, as long you’re moving and having a fun, that’s all that matters. Sometimes dancing may not necessarily be an act of healing, but joy, gratitude, and bliss. Throw a dance party and show off all your favorite moves like nobody is watching.

Do you have any mottos that you live by? I would love to hear them below!