I have been a fan of Patti Digh’s book, Life is Verb, since 2010. In fact, I so enjoyed the book the first time I read it, I began a weekly blog meme: Life is a Verb Thursdays.

For those who might be unfamiliar with this work, here is the back cover blurb:

The death of her stepfather just 37 days after being diagnosed with cancer woke Patti Digh up, scared her, and made her examine her own life. She realized that living your best life doesn’t mean ditching your job and sailing around the world – it means living each individual, glorious, simple day with more intention. (emphasis my own)

Thirty-seven has become an important number in Patti’s life – and it is becoming one in mine as well. Supposedly it takes 21 days to build a habit, and there are many online 30 day challenges to help focus on new routines. But 37 days is just a wee bit longer, slightly more eccentric, and a bit more powerful in changing our false paradigms.

The book outlines six core practices to help us live life with no regrets. Below, I have outlined the practices, as well as provided one writing prompt inspired from each of those chapters.

Say Yes (Intensity)  What did that young kindergarten Molly risk doing for fun – for play – for sheer joy… that the older Molly masks and denies herself the pleasure. How can I learn to let go of comparison and begin to enjoy the wonder-filled life a child? (page 39-40)

Be Generous (Inclusion) Why am I holding back from trying something new – from daring to take that interest to the next level – from fulfilling my heart’s desire? (page 66)

Speak Up (Integrity) We have all experienced public shame, which begins a mental tape that lasts a lifetime. One of the most valuable prompts I ever encountered came from a class I took from Patti. — Ask yourself: Where would I be without that thought (page 83)

Love More (Intimacy) What undue pressures am I putting on myself that need to be removed in order to experience joy and peace? (page 113)

Trust Yourself (Intuition) Is there something “good” that I am holding on to that prevents me from experiencing something “great”? (page 147)

Slow Down (Intention) Review the to-do list. How many tasks fall in the category: tyranny of the urgent? How many do I consider truly important life priorities? If the ratio seems out of balance, how can I make minor adjustments for major improvement? (page 187)

If you haven’t read Patti’s book, I highly recommend it.

And if you have, I’d love to hear how you have incorporated her six core practices into your own life.