Stay Close to What Makes You Feel Alive

“Stay close to anything that makes you glad you are alive.” – Hafez

Hafez, the 14th-century Persian poet and mystic, had a remarkable ability to distill life’s truths into simple, profound statements. His advice to stay close to what makes you glad to be alive is both a gentle reminder and a powerful call to action. It invites us to reflect on what truly brings joy and meaning to our lives and to prioritize those things above all else.

In a world full of distractions, obligations, and struggles, it’s easy to drift away from the people, passions, and experiences that light up our souls. But Hafez’s wisdom challenges us to reconnect with them, to hold them close, and to let them guide our journey.

Let’s explore why this advice matters, how to identify what makes you feel alive, and ways to bring more of that energy into your daily life.

1. Why This Matters: The Power of Joy

Joy isn’t just a fleeting emotion—it’s a vital force that sustains us through life’s ups and downs. When we surround ourselves with things that make us feel alive, we experience a deeper sense of fulfillment and connection to the world around us.

1.1. Joy as a Compass

The things that make you feel glad to be alive often point toward your purpose, values, and authentic self. They act as a compass, helping you navigate decisions and align your life with what truly matters.

1.2. Fuel for Resilience

Life can be challenging, but joy provides the fuel we need to keep going. Whether it’s a moment of laughter with loved ones or the satisfaction of pursuing a passion, these moments remind us why life is worth living.

2. Identifying What Makes You Feel Alive

The first step to staying close to joy is understanding what brings it into your life.

2.1. Reflect on Your Passions

Think about the activities that make time disappear. What are the things you could do for hours without getting bored? Whether it’s painting, hiking, or connecting with others, these passions often hold the key to your happiness.

2.2. Notice Your Environment

Pay attention to the people, places, and situations that energize you. Do you feel most alive when surrounded by nature? When sharing stories with friends? When creating something new?

2.3. Revisit Childhood Joys

Sometimes, the things that make us feel alive are rooted in childhood. Reflect on the hobbies or dreams you had as a child—there may be clues to what still sparks joy in your heart.

3. Staying Close to Joy

Once you’ve identified what makes you feel alive, the challenge is to prioritize it. Life’s responsibilities can often pull us away from joy, but it’s essential to make space for it in our routines.

3.1. Create Time for What Matters

Schedule time for the things you love, even if it’s just a few minutes a day. Whether it’s reading a book, calling a friend, or taking a walk, these small moments can have a big impact on your well-being.

3.2. Cultivate Meaningful Relationships

Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. These relationships not only bring joy but also provide support and perspective when life gets tough.

3.3. Simplify and Let Go

Let go of activities, commitments, or relationships that drain your energy. Simplifying your life creates more room for the things that truly make you glad to be alive.

4. The Ripple Effect of Joy

When you prioritize joy in your life, its impact extends far beyond yourself. Joy is contagious—it inspires others, strengthens relationships, and fosters a sense of community. By staying close to what makes you feel alive, you contribute to a world that feels more vibrant and connected.

5. Conclusion: A Life Worth Living

Hafez’s words remind us that life is too precious to spend on things that don’t make us feel alive. By staying close to joy—whether it’s through passions, relationships, or simple moments of beauty—we create a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling.

Take a moment to reflect: What makes you glad to be alive? What fills your heart with light and energy? Whatever it is, stay close to it. Nurture it. Let it guide your days. In doing so, you honor not just yourself but the gift of life itself.