A life well lived is one which has a sense of purpose. All too often, we believe that a great life requires us to do something heroic and involves a grand gesture that makes us stand out. That, however, is not the case. All we need is to be the best possible person we can be on a daily basis and consistently commit acts of “minor greatness” that will, over the course of a lifetime, add up to a significant contribution. Here are six ways that will help take a person’s life to the next level.

Love all

A life is defined by the quality of relationships you build. On the deathbed, a person won’t ask the nurse to wheel in the new car or the money in the bank. People just want their loved ones around them in their final moments. If relationships are important then, they should be important now too. If you lack fulfilment in life, dedicate yourself to nurturing personal and professional relationships and you will be pleasantly surprised by the results.

Passion play

As you lie in bed tonight, ask yourself whether you’re still doing the things you love. Do you love your career? Do you have hobbies that make your heart sing? Do you enjoy the people you surround yourself with? If the answer to any of these questions is no, ask yourself what changes you should make to improve things. To renew your zest for life, get back to the things that you love.

Stay true

A lot of us live the lives of other people. We take up a certain career because it is what our parents want us to do. We act in a certain way because we believe that is what society wants from us. But the greater the difference between your private and public persona, the greater is the dissatisfaction. Stop doing things because it is expected of you and start listening to your heart. Your life will automatically improve.

Make a mark

One of the deepest human needs is to live for something greater than ourselves. What will future generations remember you by? The good news is, it has never been so easy to make your mark. Through technology, one idea can transform lives everywhere. And you need not leave a mark at a global level. A single person committed to helping others in a community, in a school or even in a family, is exceptionally worthy.

Blame game

To become a success, you have to first take complete responsibility for everything in your life. Often we blame others for our unhappiness and dissatisfaction. But blaming others is nothing more than excusing yourself. And each time you point the finger at someone else, you are assigning away a little bit more of your power as a human being. If you continue to blame others for your relationship troubles, your career dissatisfaction or your health issues, eventually you will grow into a powerless human being.

Fun factor

One of the best ways to stay enthusiastic is to inject a sense of adventure into your days. Take small risks to spice up your life. Read books you never thought you would read. Try foods you never thought you would try. Pick up the phone and get to know people you never thought you could meet. Stretch yourself and you will be surprised by the rewards. You will not only feel better about yourself but also have an incredible amount of fun.