What Makes You Come Alive?

In last week’s post I mentioned the idea of writing down a list of things that “make you come alive” – in other words, things that refresh you, inspire you, energize you, and give you a sense of joy, peace, and purpose. I wrote my own list many years ago when I was still a teenager, and while I have since added and adjusted a few things, it has basically remained the same. Here it is:

Things That Make Me Come Alive

Being in nature

Being out of my comfort zone

Climbing mountains

Doing something that really scares me

Driving alone listening to good music

Exercise

Giving 100% to a task

Gymnastics

Having a braai with mates

Kettlebells

Leading and teaching others

Learning about God

Making a difference to someone else’s life

Playing with my son Will

Praying

Quiet time alone

Reading an inspiring book

Revealing something of God to others

Roadtrips with close friends

Seeing new places

Snowboarding

Socialising with good friends

Spending quality time with my wife Jess

Spontaneous adventures

Stimulating conversation

Sunsets & sunrises

Surfing

Swimming in the ocean

Travelling backpack style

Watching a good film

In my opinion having a list like this is important. It helps to remind me of the things I love, and becomes an anchor point in times of busyness or trouble or doubt. It forces me to prioritise space in my day and in my week to intentionally do things that I know are going to fill my tank, and give me the strength I need to face the challenges ahead.

Life has a way of emptying your bucket, and it is up to YOU (no one else) to find out how to fill that bucket again. So I guess the question is: What fills your bucket?