Natalie's Manifesto

Here are 13 short and simple points that I live my life by;

1. Don't take things to seriously
Life is short: try and enjoy it. Don't hold grudges or look too deep into anything- because it will drive you mad (and/or you'll end up wasting valuable time that you could have spent otherwise enjoying yourself). Remember, we are all human.


2. Try to see things from a different angle
We all see things differently, so try and look at a everything from at least two angles or points of view.


3. Make mistakes
As hard as it may be to admit it, we all make mistakes. However, this not a bad thing. The best way to learn is to make a mistake and then learn how not to get in that situation again.


4. Read as much as possible
It doesn't have to be Dickens or Cicero, but reading has the ability to stretch your imagination and force you to create without even realizing it.


5. Have a passion
It's perfectly alright to have hobbies and interests, as well as be passionate about something. If something can help you escape the real world for periods at a time, the more power to it.


6. Make time for others
Sometimes our friends and family can be a good influence on us. As well, having conversations with others can be quite insightful.


7. Take long walks to nowhere
The world is an interesting place, you never know where you can find inspiration. It's fun to see what's going on around you locally, so walk away from the computer and go for a walk. Fresh air and sunlight are good for you.


8. Don't stay still
Move around. Working from one angle can put your brain in a rut. Lay upside-down, move your furniture around, hop up and down.


9. Don't be afraid of change
Like it or not the world is constantly changing. If we don't embrace the change and change with it, we get left behind.


10. Be informed
The better informed you in all areas the more interesting you are. Read the news paper, surf international news websites, watch documentaries. Learn as much as you can. We live in an age where there are so many free resources, why not take advantage of it? Nothing is random or meaningless, you never know when it will be important.


11. Have a muse
Inspiration can come from anything. Having something that can inspire you can help motivate you when you're stuck, therefore find your muse early on.


12. Live one day at a time
Start each new morning fresh and forget yesterday's worries.


13. Set a short term goal
Plan a vacation or treat for yourself. Having a short term goal ahead can help you get through tough times.