Life is not meant to be wasted living in a state of constant anxiety, worry or fear. Life is to be cherished, and treated as an adventurous voyage of which you are the navigator.

This past weekend, my family and I spent a lot of time around large groups of people. And, although I am not a huge fan of large crowds, I do appreciate the opportunity to “people watch.” It really is a lot of fun to see all of the different types of characters we live amongst. (I live in Los Angeles, so I get to see A LOT of unique characters – to say the least.)

One thing I noticed over and over again was this…many, many people had grimaces on their otherwise wonderful faces. It got me to thinking – Why do so many people lose that spark they once had?

Well…I know the answer to that question is not simple. I am sure there are many reasons for those forlorn faces.

But, regardless of the reasons. There is a way to get that groove back. (Yes, I just said “groove.” I know…I am cheesy sometimes.)

Just like everyone else, I sometimes let the negativity get to me, and I bury my head in the sand. But, here are six things that I do in order to feel that connection with life again.

6. Accept Your Flaws

Clearly, none of us are perfect. Not even close. And, besides – what the hell is perfection anyway? So, instead of dwelling on the things you are not, focus on things you are. Embrace the flaws you cannot change. And try your hardest to improve the things you can. Stop dwelling in the realm of negativity. Life is too short to get hung up on the things we cannot change.

5. You Made a Mistake? So what. Move on!

We all make lots and lots and lots of mistakes. I probably make 500 hundred a day. (That was just an exaggeration… I only make 457.) Honestly, though. We mess up. That’s part of being a human. Learn from it. I repeat. Learn from it. And then, move on. That’s all we can do. Don’t think about it until it drives you crazy. It’s a pointless exercise, and a total time-waster

4. Cherish the Moment.

I know this may sound corny, or cliché. But, it really is true. If you can stop always looking past the moment, and towards the future… And instead, live in the “now.” You will really see a drastic improvement in your enthusiasm for life

3. Don’t Let the Haters Affect You.

Easier said than done, right? Trust me. I know. This particular point is really me giving myself advice. I cannot stand when people treat me unfairly, or disrespectfully. And, I guess most of us don’t. But, I really let it get to me way too much. But, I am working on it. I have to say – it does feel great when you let the hurtful actions or words from another just roll off your back. You take the power back from them. And regain control of your own life and feelings.

2. Explore.

Get outside of your comfort zone. Do something out of the ordinary. I know some personalities are hard-wired to live an adrenaline fueled life, whereas others like to keep things safe and simple. And, that’s cool. I am not saying you have to repel off the Empire State Building. But maybe try a new place to eat instead of Bob’s Pizza every Friday. Or maybe go take a hike instead of spending your entire Saturday inside that 65,000 square foot shopping mall. Try something new. You may like it.

And the number ONE way to get your passion for life back is…. (Drum roll)

1. Laugh, man. Laugh.

Laugh at yourself. A lot. Don’t take yourself, or life, too seriously. Sure. Life can be serious. I know that. I’m a 37-year old lawyer. So I have been in plenty of serious situations. But, no matter how serious it is. I find time to laugh. Maybe not in that exact moment. (Most judges don’t like it when you laugh in their faces.) So, just save the laugh for the ride home. Who cares if you look insane laughing to yourself in your car. Enjoy life! And keep on laughing!