11 Ways To Take The Power Back In Your Life

BY LAUREN STAHL 
APRIL 24, 2015 5:10 AM EDT

All too often, we give our power away. We put the needs of others in front of ours. We lose sight of our ability to choose, and forget that the only way to find happiness and fulfillment is from within.

Do you find yourself giving your power away to your partner, boss, friend, or job? Is your happiness dependent on the validation you get from the externals in your life? Or do your feel like you're a victim of your circumstances?

If any of these are the case, you're not alone.

Here are 11 ways to take the power back in your life:

1. Stop blaming.

By blaming, you diminish your sense of self. You give away your power to whatever it is you are blaming. Notice when you're doing it and take the action to act opposite.

2. Stop making excuses.

Excuses mean you’re not taking ownership for your needs or desires. They mean you're not trusting yourself to live the life you want to live. Stop making them today.

3. Stop judging yourself.

Many people are their own harshest critics who embrace the perfectionist mindset. Maybe you procrastinate and don’t immerse yourself in what ultimately brings about fulfillment. Let go of the judgment and embrace compassion to bring back your power.

4. Practice acceptance.

Acceptance is the answer to all your problems. It's where full power and love lies. It's where you can show up and take responsibility for your life and decisions. Practice the beauty of acceptance.

5. Connect with the present moment.

The present moment is where there is serenity. It's where you can tap into your higher self beneath the noise and chaos. By connecting to the present, you're taking all your power back. The power and a life of gratitude lies in the present.

6. Recognize the power of choice.

You always have a choice. It can be easy to lose sight of this when you put the needs of others in front of yours. You don’t have to do this anymore.

7. Accept that you want to change.

Taking the power back in your life means change. It may be uncomfortable. Accept that this is what you want for yourself. Connect with this acceptance and embrace the power you harness within.

8. Forgive.

Past experiences or events can be hard to come to peace with. They can keep many of us in the mindset of a victim. Remember that you are not a victim. You are an empowered soul that has the ability to practice compassion and love on a constant basis.

9. Take ownership over your decisions.

Your decisions are your decisions. How great is that? Remember that you are behind the steering wheel of your life.

10. Start taking positive actions.

Change means action. Taking your power back means you have to take the actions. It may mean writing down what you want and what your needs and desires are. From there, write down specific actions you can take to make them a reality.

11. Remember that "No" is a powerful word.

Many people have the people-pleaser within who wants to say "yes" to everything. Often you can get resentful of doing things you don’t intuitively want to do. Embrace "no" today and take care of yourself.