The Art of Living a Peaceful Life

"If you are at peace, you are living in the present." – Lao Tzu

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the life I’ve built; a life where inner calm meets external stability, and every choice echoes my deep-rooted need for security and balance. Just a few weeks ago, I was chatting with a colleague who proudly announced his plan to live a peaceful life - complete with a stack of self-help books to guide him. That moment made me pause. I realised I’ve never cracked open a self-help book, yet here I am, living a life that feels serene and whole. So, I decided to share my story: the simple, honest path I’ve taken to create my own peace.

Emotional Stability: Embracing Solitude and Self-Discovery

I’ve always been naturally introspective; a person who craves quiet moments to reflect, dream, and untangle life’s puzzles. By carving out time to truly understand who I am, I’ve discovered an inner calm that fuels my confidence and resilience. I know when to be self-critical, but I’m kind and fair to myself. My passion for running – to me it’s more than just exercise; getting fit is a byproduct. Running is a moving meditation that clears my head, regulates my emotions, and reaffirms my core values. With every stride, I rediscover the strength that comes from truly knowing and accepting myself.

"It’s not about the legs; it’s about the heart and mind." – Eliud Kipchoge

Financial Stability: My First Lesson in Life

Even as a child, I had a knack for money management. Before I even knew what a bank was, I was busy playing banker with my siblings. I’d confidently declare, “I lend you 10, and you pay me back 15,” and if they weren’t game, no harm done - the money stayed safe in my piggy bank. Little did I know that these playful experiments were laying the groundwork for a lifetime of savvy financial decisions.

My friends and family often tease me about being bourgeois, and I won’t deny that I have high standards and a taste for quality. However, I have never indulged beyond my means - living well is only worthwhile to me if I can afford it outright. I don’t fund my lifestyle on credit! Today, I enjoy the freedom of a steady income and a debt-free life (aside from my modest mortgage). While building a prosperous future with a partner is a welcome bonus, my financial independence remains the cornerstone of my peace.

Nurturing Healthy Relationships: Quality Over Quantity

I believe in the magic of genuine connections. My natural curiosity about people and their stories makes it easy for me to connect with anyone. Over the years, this has helped me build a close-knit community - a group of trusted friends who speak the truth and aren’t afraid to challenge me when needed. 

I’ve always preferred a smaller circle. I remember that even in primary and middle school in Vienna, despite being a popular kid, I only ever invited a select few to my birthday celebrations. I didn’t attend every party I was invited to either - I was a bit of an odd child, immune to FOMO before I even knew what it was. Now, as an adult, I truly value having a small yet diverse group of friends.

Love and Romance: The Beauty of a Whole Partnership

I value partnership deeply, yet whether I’m single or in a relationship, I remain content and at peace. A romantic relationship is a wonderful addition to my happiness - it enhances my life rather than defining it. I believe it’s essential to be whole before entering a relationship; when you are healed, you are truly ready for a healthy and loving partnership. It’s not about what the other person can give me, but rather how compatible we are in terms of values and principles. Through integrity, we can bring more joy and peace into each other’s lives.

Accept Life’s Challenges and Uncertainty

I think I was born an anxious child. Over the years, I’ve come to accept that life is full of challenges and uncertainties - each one a lesson in disguise. I now approach setbacks with a solution-oriented mind, constantly asking, “What is life trying to teach me with this adversity?” Though I still feel anxiety from time to time, I’ve gathered the tools to navigate it. Accepting life’s unpredictable nature has transformed obstacles into opportunities, enabling me to grow stronger and wiser with every twist and turn.

When life feels overwhelming, I retreat into solitude with a cup of herbal tea, letting my tears flow freely. I release, I reassure myself: it’s all going to be okay. And once I’m cried out, I shift gears, channelling my energy into solutions. I’ve mastered the art of turning shit situations into fertiliser for growth.

The Art of Enjoying Your Own Company

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that peace begins with self-acceptance. I’ve never felt lonely; I genuinely love spending time with myself. I entertain myself, challenge myself, and find endless joy in my own thoughts. I talk to myself constantly, crack jokes that make me laugh out loud, and fill my space with spontaneous melodies and sounds. If there were ever a hidden camera in my home, I’m convinced it would be a global hit - because, quite honestly, I’m a bit of a character - an enigma meets intrigue.

Perhaps this ease in solitude comes from my unique background - a blend of Austrian and Sierra Leonean roots, a life spent in different cultures, and the guidance of both strong women and inspiring male mentors. Or maybe it’s simply my naturally inquisitive nature that makes even life’s quiet moments feel rich with possibility. Whatever the reason, I’ve found that when you truly enjoy your own company, you are never bored, never searching for external validation - just content, at peace, and fully at home within yourself. 

Limiting Distractions: Keeping Life Simple

I’ve learned that simplicity is key to preserving peace. I make a conscious choice to surround myself only with things and people that add real value to my life. If something or someone threatens that serenity, I step back. By limiting distractions, I create space to focus on what truly matters - nurturing my inner calm and living in alignment with my values. Also, just sitting on my yoga mat with a cup of herbal tea brings me so much joy. It's such a simple act, yet incredibly grounding.

"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." – Leonardo da Vinci

A Journey Written by Experience

I didn’t arrive at this peaceful life by following a self-help manual. Instead, I’ve learned from personal experiences and the real-life stories shared by those around me. Every lesson, every small victory, has taught me that peace isn’t something you stumble upon, it’s something you create with every thoughtful decision.

This is how I choose to live: with intention, authenticity, and a constant curiosity about life’s endless possibilities. As I continue on this journey, I hope my story inspires you to reflect on what truly matters in your own life. This isn’t a manual - it’s an invitation to discover the art of living peacefully by uncovering your unique values that will help you build the life you deserve, day by day.

“The story of your life is written with each choice you make.”