How to Feel Alive
Recently, I’ve come to a more concrete realization: life isn’t about being submerged in happiness at all times. While this may differ from person to person, the conclusion I’ve drawn—based on the life I’ve lived, the books I’ve read, the conversations I’ve had, and the perhaps overwhelming self-reflection I’ve done over the years—is that the meaning of life revolves around two simple, well-known concepts: growth and aliveness. If, until my last day, I continue to grow and, through experience, feel alive, then I will have lived a well-rounded life. That includes all the highs and lows.
This is why I now try to view all my experiences through the lens of growth and aliveness. Growth is easy to recognize in hindsight; aliveness, on the other hand, can be a bit harder to pin down. But here’s a little secret: aliveness is often felt just past the point of resistance.
Resistance is something everyone experiences, even if they don’t know the word for it. Here’s a definition: “The internal struggle or reluctance to change, embrace new ideas, or take necessary actions for personal growth.”
You see? Growth and aliveness are connected by the thread of resistance. Comfort is always tempting, but to truly feel alive, you often need to push through that resistance and step into discomfort. That’s when growth happens, and that’s when you feel alive.
When people do things they don’t want to do, the anterior midcingulate cortex (aMCC)—an important region of the brain—actually increases in size. A larger aMCC is associated with numerous benefits, such as:
Enhanced willpower and tenacity,
Improved stress tolerance,
Better emotional regulation,
Increased mental resilience,
Enhanced focus and attention,
Better decision-making,
Potential for cognitive longevity,
And improved relationships.
So here’s a small challenge: this week, do one thing you’ve been putting off because you “have la flemme.” It can be as simple as doing the dishes right after you eat, going on that date you’ve been hesitant about, or spending one-on-one time with a friend you’re not yet close to. You might find that the discomfort fades—and maybe, just maybe, you’ll feel a bit more alive, like the day meant something.
Isn’t it beautiful how much of this is in our control?
Source - Pinterest
