Living My Best Life

Tammy Martin
Jan 8
3 min read

January 2026

I used to think that living my best life was something far off, a goal to chase after endlessly. But recently, I realized it’s really about how I choose to see my life right now. It’s all about perspective. This shift in thinking didn’t happen overnight, but once it did, everything felt clearer. I started to appreciate the art of contentment and how it shapes my everyday experience.

Changing How I See Life

Some days its difficult not to focus on what I don't have or what I think I need to be happy. I believed that success, travel, or material things would bring me fulfillment. But the truth is, those things only matter if I let them. The real change came when I stopped waiting for life to be perfect and started embracing what was already good.

Perspective is like a lens through which we view the world. If the lens is clouded by doubt or comparison, life feels heavy and unsatisfying. When I adjusted my lens to focus on gratitude and presence, I found that contentment wasn’t a distant dream but a daily practice.

Practical Ways I Shifted My Perspective

Mindful moments: Taking time each day to notice small joys, like the warmth of the Tasmanian sun, the taste of my morning coffee or just being able to spend time in my sketchbook.
Journaling: Journaling in my sketchbook is beyond cathartic. Sometimes also just writing down three things I’m grateful for on a regular basis has really helped me see the positive things and people already in my life.
Limiting comparisons: I stopped scrolling through social media mindlessly and reminded myself that everyone’s journey is unique. It's all really just what others want you to see, does not make it an actuality all of the time. Life happens, either you let it or fight it.

These simple habits helped me see life as an art form, where every moment is a brushstroke contributing to the bigger picture.

Close-up view of a paintbrush and palette with vibrant colors — Wynyard Foreshore - definately a place to charge the batteries

Finding Contentment in Everyday Moments

Contentment doesn’t mean settling or giving up on growth. Instead, it means appreciating where you are while still moving forward. I found that when I stopped chasing an ideal version of life, I could enjoy the present more fully.

I used to rush through meals or pre-empt conversations, thinking about what was next and moving quickly on. Now, I slow down and savor these moments. Cooking a simple meal with those I love becomes an act of creativity, like painting on a canvas. Sharing a laugh with a friend feels like a treasure rather than a brief encounter.

This mindset shift also helped me handle challenges better. Instead of feeling defeated by setbacks, I see them as part of the art of living, a necessary contrast that makes the bright moments stand out.

Embracing the Art of Life

Life itself is an art, shaped by how we choose to experience it. Just like artists mix colours to create something of beauty, we blend our thoughts, feelings, and actions to create our unique story.

I’ve learned to:

Celebrate small wins: Recognizing progress, no matter how minor, builds confidence and joy.
Be patient with myself: Growth takes time, and it’s okay to have ups and downs.
Seek inspiration: Whether through books, nature, or conversations, inspiration fuels my creativity and outlook.

This approach makes life feel rich and meaningful. It’s not about perfection but about finding beauty in imperfection.

And I love it!