The framework for living is based on 12 practices or ‘ways of being’. Using the framework and embedding these practices into your daily life can help you to identify who you are, who you want to be, how to present in the world and how to support others.
Each of these practices come with additional tools to help you embed them fully into your life.
Self-awareness and introspection
Self-awareness and introspection are essential for personal growth and meaningful relationships. By reflecting on our thoughts, emotions, and actions, we can develop a deeper understanding of who we are and why we behave in the way we do. This insight can help us to make better decisions, control our emotions and communicate effectively with others. It also allows us to learn from our experiences, grow from our mistakes, and live in a way that aligns with our values.
Authenticity
Authenticity is important because it allows us to live in alignment with our true selves. When we are authentic, we build trust and meaningful connections with others, as people respond to our honesty and sincerity. It helps us make choices that reflect our values and beliefs, rather than trying to change ourselves to impress others. Being inauthentic is tiring and difficult, whereas living authentically empowering us to embrace who we really are and live a life that feels true and purposeful.
Perspective
Perspective is important because it shapes how we understand and respond to the world around us. It allows us to see situations from different angles, fostering empathy, open-mindedness, and better problem-solving. With perspective, we can step outside our own biases and emotions, gaining clarity and a more balanced view of challenges and relationships. This helps us make wiser decisions, communicate more effectively, and build stronger connections with others.
Appreciation
Appreciation is important because it helps us recognise and value the good things that exist around us. When we practice appreciation, we cultivate gratitude, which, in turn, boosts our happiness and strengthens our relationships with others. Appreciation encourages a positive mindset, making us more aware of the support, kindness, and beauty around us. Appreciating what we already have and expressing our gratitude is better for our wellbeing than dwelling on what is missing from our lives.
Emotional mastery
Emotional mastery is important because it enables us to manage our feelings instead of being overwhelmed or controlled by them. When we can regulate our emotions, we respond to situations calmly and with clarity, patience, and resilience rather than with impulsiveness or reactivity. This control strengthens our relationships, supports better decision-making, and enhances our overall wellbeing. Emotional mastery also helps us manage stressful situations, remain focused on our goals, and navigate life’s challenges in a positive way.
Resilience
Resilience is important because it allows us to recover from setbacks, adapt to change, and keep moving forward in the face of adversity. Resilience gives us the strength to face life’s challenges without giving up or losing hope. It helps us learn from difficulties, grow stronger and maintain our mental and emotional wellbeing. With resilience, we can persevere through hardships and continue striving toward our goals, regardless of the obstacles we are faced with.
Purpose and meaning
Purpose and meaning are important because they give direction and fulfillment to our lives. When we understand what matters most to us, we are more motivated, focused, and resilient in the face of challenges. Having a strong sense of purpose helps us to prioritise our time and energy, make meaningful choices, and feel connected to something larger than ourselves. It transforms everyday actions into steps toward a bigger goal, making life feel more intentional and rewarding.
Positive action
Taking positive action is important because it turns intentions and ideas into real change. No matter how good our thoughts or goals are, progress will only happen when we take steps toward them. Positive action builds momentum and creates a sense of control over our lives. By choosing to act with purpose and positivity, we move closer to our goals and make a meaningful impact on the world around us.
Seeking understanding
Seeking understanding is important because it helps bridge gaps between people, ideas, and experiences. When we strive to truly understand ourself and others we foster empathy, reduce conflict, and make more informed decisions. It encourages open-mindedness and curiosity, allowing us to learn, grow, and see the world from different perspectives. When we prioritise understanding over judgment, we build deeper connections and play our part in creating a more compassionate and cooperative society.
Homonara
Homonara is a word created for Perspectives as there did not seem to be a suitable word in current usage to describe the concept. Homonara describes the idea of all humans being similar in nature and humanity being part of one unified whole. Homonara is important because it fosters compassion, empathy, and a sense of shared humanity. When we focus on what connects us such as our emotions, needs, and hopes, we break down barriers of prejudice, fear and division. This perspective encourages cooperation, reduces conflict, and promotes peace, both within communities and globally. By understanding that we are more alike than different, we build stronger, more inclusive relationships and create a world rooted in mutual respect and understanding.
Constructive Interaction
Constructive interaction is important because it fosters positive communication, collaboration, and growth. When people engage with each other thoughtfully and respectfully, they can solve problems more effectively, learn from different perspectives, and build stronger relationships. Constructive interactions create a safe space for honest feedback and creative ideas, helping individuals and teams to improve and achieve common goals. This kind of engagement promotes understanding, reduces conflict, and leads to better outcomes for everyone involved.
Surrender
Surrender is important because it allows us to let go of the things we cannot or should not control, which opens the door to acceptance and peace. By surrendering, we acknowledge that some things are beyond our power to change, which helps reduce stress and anxiety. Surrender doesn’t mean giving up. Instead it is about embracing the current situation with openness and acceptance, freeing ourselves to move forward with clarity and resilience.
These 12 ways of being are complementary and often overlap each other.