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Curating Your Life

Carrie Jones, LPC
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We live in a world brimming with influences — from the playlists on our phones to the people we spend our days with, to the environments we call home. Just like an art curator shapes a gallery to evoke a particular mood or story, we, too, have the power to “curate” our own lives! It’s an intentional way of choosing what and who we allow into our personal world, shaping a life that feels more fulfilling, inspiring, and authentic. Let’s explore what it means to curate your life and how a few intentional choices can make a big difference.

1. Curating Your Home 🏡

Your environment reflects — and influences — your inner world. Think about how you feel when you step into a cluttered room versus a tidy, cozy space. One feels chaotic; the other, like a sanctuary. Making your physical space work for you doesn’t require a designer’s touch; it’s all about intentional choices.

Ask yourself:

Does my home reflect my personality and the energy I want to feel here?

Are there items or decorations that bring me joy, comfort, or inspiration?

Even small touches, like a scented candle, a cozy blanket, or a few green plants, can help cultivate a comforting atmosphere. Make a habit of regularly refreshing your space, whether it’s by rearranging furniture or swapping out decor. Your space is an extension of yourself, so let it tell the story you want to live.

2. Choose Your Inner Circle Wisely 🤝

One of the biggest influences on our lives is the people we spend time with. Ever heard the saying, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with”? While it’s not a strict rule, it highlights the truth that people around us shape our perspectives, attitudes, and even our happiness.

When curating your inner circle, think about:

Who makes you feel uplifted, motivated, and safe?

Who shares values that resonate with you and supports your growth?

Prioritizing relationships that energize you and letting go (or setting boundaries) with those that drain you can create a profound sense of emotional freedom. Building meaningful connections isn’t just about avoiding negativity — it’s about making room for joy, support, and companionship.

3. Choosing TV Wisely 📺

TV shows are another powerful influence in our lives, shaping how we relax, what we talk about, and even how we view the world. It’s worth curating what you watch to align with the energy and emotions you want in your life. Think of it as creating a balanced “media diet” that gives you a mix of fun, inspiration, and relaxation.

Consider:

Do I want something uplifting, like a feel-good sitcom, or maybe a show with strong themes of resilience and growth?

Are there shows that introduce new perspectives or spark curiosity?

Should I really be watching the news or crime shows this much?

If you’re looking to unwind, a light-hearted comedy or nature documentary might be perfect. For inspiration, maybe you go for something with powerful storytelling or rich, complex characters. And when you’re in the mood for learning, a great documentary series or historical drama can be both enjoyable and enriching. Curating your shows means you can enjoy some well-deserved downtime while also choosing content that leaves you feeling good long after the credits roll.

4. The Soundtrack to Your Life 🎶

Music has an incredible impact on our emotions. Have you ever noticed how an upbeat song can boost your mood, or how a soft melody can bring calm? Curating your life starts with paying attention to what you’re listening to and how it makes you feel. Ask yourself:

What types of music, podcasts, or even silence support the energy I want to cultivate?

Do I have playlists for different moods, like a “motivation” playlist or a “relax and unwind” list?

Consider experimenting with new sounds. Maybe try adding some meditative music to your morning routine or discovering a motivational podcast to listen to on your commute. When you intentionally choose what fills your ears, you’re adding a small, positive ritual to each day.

5. Curating Your Online Life 📱

It’s easy to overlook how much time we spend online, but your digital life is just as much a part of your world as your physical surroundings. Try to bring the same intentionality here, whether it’s unfollowing accounts that drain your energy or organizing your digital files so they’re less overwhelming.

Consider:

Does my social media inspire and support me, or does it make me feel disconnected or overwhelmed?

Am I setting boundaries around when and how I engage with technology?

An intentional digital life doesn’t mean eliminating screens — it means choosing content that uplifts you and creating limits to prevent burnout. You might try muting notifications after a certain hour or curating a feed that reflects your values.

6. Guarding Your Time and Energy ⏳

Curating your life also means being thoughtful about your energy and where you invest it. Time is one of the most precious resources we have, and how we use it says a lot about what we value.

Consider:

Am I giving my energy to things that align with my goals and values?

Do I make time for activities that help me recharge, like hobbies, exercise, or spending time with loved ones?

By setting boundaries around your time, you’re investing in what genuinely matters to you, making space for joy, purpose, and connection.

Crafting Your Life, One Choice at a Time

Curating your life is a lifelong journey. Small choices in what we listen to, who we’re around, our surroundings, and our digital and time boundaries add up to a life that feels meaningful and aligned with who we are. Remember, you have the power to create a life that is full of what matters most to you — it all starts with curating your world, one intentional choice at a time.

Until next time, happy curating!