Don’t Just Make a Living, Make a Life!

Many of us are so focused on “making a living” that we lose sight of what truly matters: “making a life.” What’s the difference? Earning money to sustain our family, securing basic needs like food, water, and shelter—this is what we often call making a living. It’s a natural instinct for survival, and while it’s important, it’s just the beginning of what life has to offer.

Making a life, on the other hand, is about living with purpose. It’s about aligning your actions with your values, contributing to something bigger than yourself, and finding fulfillment beyond material needs. It’s about cultivating joy, connection, and meaning in the everyday moments.

Here are five powerful ways you can go from just making a living to truly making a life:

1. Give Without Expecting Anything in Return

Giving is something that comes naturally to many women. We give to our families, our friends, and our communities. But one of the most precious gifts you can give is your time. Time is irreplaceable, and when you share it—whether by listening to a friend, attending your child’s school play, or spending quality time with your spouse—you’re giving something invaluable.

“Time is free, but it’s priceless. You can’t own it, but you can use it. You can’t keep it, but you can spend it. Once you’ve lost it, you can never get it back.” — Harvey Mackay

To make a life, be intentional with your time. Make sure your time reflects your core values and is spent on the people and activities that matter most to you.

2. Receive Without the Need to Repay

As givers, it can be difficult to simply receive. Many of us feel the need to “even the score” when someone offers us kindness. But sometimes, it’s okay to accept a gift graciously.

I once found myself at the grocery store when the cashier informed me that the person ahead of me had paid for my groceries. My immediate instinct was to pay it forward, but instead, I simply said, “Thank you.” There’s power in receiving without feeling indebted.

“Gratitude turns what we have into enough.” — Melody Beattie

Learn to receive with an open heart. It’s a gift in itself.

3. Forgive Yourself and Others

Forgiveness is not just about letting go of a grudge; it’s about freeing yourself. When we hold onto anger or guilt, we imprison our own hearts. Forgiving doesn’t mean forgetting—it means refusing to let the past control your future.

“Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die.” — Buddha

Forgiving yourself is just as important. It allows you to move forward without the weight of self-blame. If you want to make a life, you must release the burden of unforgiveness—for yourself and others.

4. Appreciate the Little Things

We tend to celebrate the big milestones—graduations, weddings, promotions—but life is made up of small, everyday moments. Whether it’s the morning cup of coffee, a quiet walk in nature, or a kind word from a friend, these little things are what make life rich.

“Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” — Robert Brault

Don’t let the pursuit of bigger dreams make you lose sight of the joy in the present. A grateful heart turns ordinary moments into extraordinary memories.

5. Dance Every Time You Get the Chance

Lee Ann Womack’s song lyrics capture this sentiment beautifully:

“I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean
Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens
Promise me that you’ll give fate the fighting chance
And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance
I hope you dance.”

Live boldly. Take risks. Dance through life, even when it’s hard. Embrace joy, seize opportunities, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

Are You Living the Life You Want?

Take a moment to reflect: Are you truly living the life you want? Are you happy with where you are in your profession and personal life? Are you receiving as much as you give?

If your answer is yes, congratulations! You’re well on your way to making a life, not just a living. But if your answer is no, then perhaps it’s time for a change.

Summary

Living a life of fulfillment doesn’t happen by accident. It requires intention, gratitude, and the courage to embrace both giving and receiving. By forgiving yourself and others, appreciating the little things, and daring to “dance” every time the opportunity arises, you can transform your life from merely surviving to truly thriving.

Join Our Community

If you’re ready to make the shift from just making a living to truly making a life, we invite you to join our community. Surround yourself with like-minded women who are committed to living with purpose, creating balance, and supporting each other along the way.

Let’s make a life—together! Click HERE to get started!