A mantra is a powerful phrase, designed to make a positive impact on the way that you feel.
For me, a ‘mantra’ is any phrase which makes a positive impact on how you feel. It can be a phrase created by you; a quote you have read or heard; a piece of advice someone has given you; or simply a word that has meaning and impact for you. It is always phrased in a positive way, intended to encourage and point you towards being your best self – not to punish or criticise you for being your worst self.
I personally believe that the power of words to inspire us is undeniable. A memorable phrase, giving us advice or encouragement – brought to mind on a busy day or during tough times – is enough to change our attitude, our outlook, and even, our behaviour – in the moment.
Sometimes, we feel completely out of control of what we are doing, or where we are headed. It can feel like life is simply happening to us, without us having any input into where we are going.
For a time, this can feel good. We are happy to let life runs its course, letting fate and circumstance determine what happens. We feel relaxed, open to opportunities that life presents.
But there comes a time when we feel the need to set a clearer direction. To live with more purpose and more intention. To have aims and goals for our lives.
Read these direction mantras to find inspiration and clarity; use, adapt or create one to help you focus on taking control of where you want your life to go next:
May I always find my way
‘Throw off the bowlines, sail away from safe harbour, catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore, dream, discover’ – a great reminder from Mark Twain to go out there and explore
‘Go confidently in the direction of my dreams. Live the life I have imagined’ – based on a Thoreau quote, and a good reminder that we are in charge of creating the life we want
Set your compass and the ship will follow
Find my true North
I know where I am going and how to get there
I live by the compass, not the clock – a good mantra to live by
‘If you don’t change direction, you may end up where you are heading’ – A brilliant reminder from Lao Tzu that nothing will change unless we change it
