Why fulfilment is closer than you think and how to embrace it.

Lately, I’ve heard this refrain more often than not: “I feel so stressed. Life is too busy. I can’t cope.”

It’s a sentiment shared by many, across diverse backgrounds and walks of life. The pressure of juggling responsibilities, paying bills, and keeping up with life’s demands can feel overwhelming. For some, this distress becomes a quiet resignation, a belief that “this is just how it is.”

But what if it doesn’t have to be this way?

In my reflections, I’ve realized that fulfilment – true, soul-deep contentment – is not found in erasing stress, but in transforming it into purpose. It’s about shifting from feeling powerless to embracing the power within to create a life guided by meaning.

A recent encounter reminded me of this. At a bookstore, I saw a woman pick up a book titled “How to Live.” It struck a chord with me. How to live is a question I’ve asked myself countless times. My answer? Be courageous enough to be yourself. Serve others from a place of care. As we say in YQ, lead with Love.

Yes, life is a blend of the physical, mental, and spiritual. We exist in all three realms – and we feel in all three too. Feelings are part of the human experience, yet so many of us have been taught to suppress them. In some cultures, and doctrines, hardship is glorified while feelings are cast aside.

It’s no wonder many wear their overwhelm like a badge of honour – declaring it with equal parts pride and despair. But here’s the truth: that overwhelming stress is not a trophy. It’s a challenge to be overcome, a call to redefine how we live and what we value.

I’ve had days so emotionally draining that the tears came easily – and yet, I ended those days with a sense of fulfilment and woke up the next morning feeling ready to take on the world. On the flip side, I’ve had carefree days that left me restless and uneasy by nightfall.

Fulfilment doesn’t come from perfect circumstances – it comes from showing up for yourself, even when it’s hard. Yes, change is difficult. It takes grit to face your challenges head-on, to persevere, and to carve out the life you want. You need to be tougherer™ and that is the biggest hurdle.

But here’s the beauty of it: the effort is worth it.

Life is challenging no matter what path you take. The easy road may seem tempting, but it rarely leads to the rewards of growth and fulfilment. True fulfilment doesn’t mean a life free of stress – it means your stress serves a purpose. It means the effort you put in has value, and the journey feels worth it.

That’s why I encourage taking “17 minutes – more or less” each day to reconnect with yourself. Use this time to pause, reflect, and observe your thoughts without judgment. These quiet moments can shift you from feeling like a victim of your circumstances to a champion of your own life.

Wishing you a safe and fulfilling Festive / Restive Season. May you embrace the joy of living fully and authentically.