Breaking Free from Autopilot Living: Reclaiming Your Life and Prioritizing Yourself

ByLaura Jane Self Talk Coaching
A woman is driving a car while eyes are looking ahead and an absent look on her face.

Living life on autopilot can be comforting and familiar, but it often leads to a sense of detachment from ourselves and our passions. The daily routine of work, responsibilities, and commitments to others can consume us, leaving little time or energy for personal fulfillment. In this blog, we’ll delve into the concept of autopilot living, its impact on our well-being, and explore practical ways to break free from this cycle. By taking back control and prioritizing ourselves, we can rediscover the richness and diversity that life has to offer.

1. Recognizing Autopilot Living:

The first step to making a change is acknowledging that you might be running on autopilot. Take a moment to reflect on your daily routines and habits. Are you going through the motions without much thought or intention? Has life become monotonous and lacking excitement? Recognizing the signs of autopilot living is crucial in initiating a transformation.

2. Assessing Your Priorities:

Ask yourself what truly matters to you and if your current lifestyle aligns with those values. Are you putting the needs of others ahead of your own? Identifying your priorities will help you gain clarity about the areas in your life that need attention.

3. Carving Out “Me Time”:

Making time for yourself is not selfish; it’s essential for personal growth and well-being. Schedule regular “me time” on your calendar to engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it’s pursuing a hobby, practicing mindfulness, or simply taking a peaceful walk-in nature. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup, so refilling your own cup is essential.

4. Setting Boundaries:

Learn to say no when your plate is full, and you need time for yourself. Setting boundaries with others is crucial to protect your own well-being and prevent burnout. It is okay to decline additional commitments when you need time to recharge.

5. Rediscovering Your Passions:

Take a moment to reflect on the activities that used to ignite your passion and curiosity. Reconnecting with your hobbies and interests can reignite a sense of purpose and enthusiasm for life.

6. Exploring New Experiences:

Stepping outside your comfort zone and trying new experiences can be invigorating. It could be traveling to new places, taking up a new course, or joining a club or group that aligns with your interests. Embracing novelty in life enriches your experiences and broadens your horizons.

7. Seeking Support:

Breaking free from autopilot living may require support from friends, family, or even professional counselors or life coaches. Surrounding yourself with a supportive network can provide encouragement and accountability as you embark on this journey of self-discovery.

8. Practicing Mindfulness:

Mindfulness is about being present in the moment and fully experiencing each aspect of your life. Mindful practices like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling can help you become more aware of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, allowing you to make intentional choices.

9. Lett Go of “Have To” and Embracing “Choose To”:

One of the keys to breaking free from autopilot living is changing our mindset from feeling obligated to do things to actively choosing how we spend our time and energy. Often, we fall into the trap of using “have to” statements, which can make us feel trapped and disempowered. For instance, “I have to go to work” or “I have to attend this event.”

By reframing our thoughts and language, we can shift towards an empowering perspective of “choose to.” Instead of “I have to,” we can say “I choose to” or “I want to.” This simple change can make a significant difference in how we perceive our daily activities.

Living on autopilot can gradually erode our connection to ourselves and the diverse wonders of life. It’s time to take back control and prioritize ourselves in this fast-paced world. By recognizing the signs of autopilot living, setting boundaries, rediscovering passions, and seeking support, we can break free from the cycle of routine and embrace a more fulfilling and meaningful existence. Remember, your life is your canvas, and you have the power to paint it with vibrant colors of personal growth, joy, and self-fulfillment.

If you would like support in taking back your life, book a free evaluation call.  

Laura Jane

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Laura Jane

Life Coach

Hi, I'm Laura Jane.
I firmly believe that every day is an opportunity to learn and grow, and I'm dedicated to helping my clients create a solid foundation for their success and happiness.

As a life coach, I am here to help you turn down the volume of the bully and turn up the volume of your inner best friend.

If you struggle with your bully speaking too often or too loudly. If it has all the airtime in your head, I can help you switch that up by reframing your self-talk to your internal best friend's supportive and loving voice.