It is nothing new to say that we are overstimulated, overworked, and constantly distracted. As a result, our minds have become wired for constant stimulation. This is not a healthy way of being, however, and scientists constantly churn out research that reiterates this fact.

Through the redirection of your attention, you can clear your mind and discover what truly matters in life. One way to do this is by asking yourself some important questions. Keep in mind, there are no right or wrong answers – just questions that may provide some insight in how you live your life.

Here are 20 questions to help clear your mind from the daily grind:

  1. Is it worse to fail or never try? Some people are more afraid of failing than giving themselves the opportunity to fail – the question is why?
  2. If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be? We all have things we’re passionate about but what are we doing about it? Think about what you’d like to change in the world and do something, even if it’s something small.
  3. Do you truly believe that your career is a calling, or are you just settling? If you’re not making a living out of your passion, perhaps there is some other outlet that would enable you to do so – even if it doesn’t involve money.
  4. If you could offer one piece of advice to a child, knowing that they will follow it, what would it be? The knowledge and advice that we share with children can have a definite impact on the world. Try to give this advice where and when you can.
  5. What’s holding you back from doing the one thing that you truly want to do? Again, this doesn’t have to be career-related. Perhaps it’s the trip you haven’t taken, the family member you haven’t visited, or the book that you haven’t taken the time to read.
  6. If you had to move to another country besides the one you currently live, where would you go and why? The country that you grow up in often impacts how you think and live. If possible, try to visit this place at least once and see if there’s anything you can take away from the experience.
  7. Have you been the type of friend that you would want as a friend? We are all happy to receive the company of a good friend, but are we returning the favor? We should all be loyal, kind, supportive, affectionate, and reliable to those that we call friends.
  8. What are you most grateful for? Even though we are all extremely busy, it’s good practice to think of one or two things each day for which to be grateful. You’ll also find that making a habit of this positively affects your disposition throughout the day.
  9. Do you tend to base your opinions in how you feel or how you think? Human beings are unique in that we can be both emotional and rational. There are times in which to follow your heart and there are times in which to follow your head.
  10. Would you rather do work that you love or work that provides a good income? No wrong answer here. We all have different priorities, and some have people who rely on them. However, it’s still worth examining if only for your own knowledge and future choices.
  11. How do you try to make each day count? It’s no secret that our days on this planet are limited. When looking back on your life, will you be able to say that it was lived to the fullest?
  12. What is the difference between feeling truly alive and just living? I think we all want to feel as alive as possible without the complacency that daily life can bring…but what does this mean to you?
  13. How would being rich change your life aside from being able to acquire a bunch of possessions? Our world is very materialistic – we want money to buy stuff. If you are seeking a big payday, do you have another reason other than buying things?
  14. When was the last time that you focused on your breath? Chalk up another reason why a hectic world and lifestyle is bad for us – it makes it nearly impossible to be present. Focusing on your breath can have a positive, calming effect on your mood. Try it!
  15. When you have time alone, what do you do? What do you do with the precious few moments of solitude that you have throughout the day? Consider the importance of solitude and make this valuable time count.
  16. What actions have you taken on a cause that is important to you? Our world is filled with problems – problems that require a solution. You likely have some cause near and dear to your heart. Consider contributing in some way. Volunteer, donate, organize…you can make a difference my friend.
  17. Who do you truly love in your life? How have you demonstrated this recently? Speaking of precious moments – how are you showing love to people that are important to you? Visit, call or send a quick text to someone who’d love to hear from you!
  18. When you make a mistake, how do you treat yourself? Some of us hold ourselves to high standards and that’s okay! But do you beat yourself up for making a small mistake? How we react to a setback is often more important than the setback itself.
  19. What are you doing to further understand yourself and your place in the world? Complacency is another reason why our hectic lives are not good. On the other hand contemplation, about yourself and your place in the world, is very good.
  20. When living your life, do you truly make the decisions or does someone else make them for you? If there are any married men reading this, you are given a pass – we all know who makes those decisions! (Just kidding, just kidding). On a serious note, we should all consider to whom we’re giving the authority in regards to our decision making – is it you or someone else?