Recently, we asked Joan Borysenko, a world-renown expert in mind/body connection, to share her wisdom about how to connect with what’s important and live a happier, more fulfilled life. We hope you find it as inspiring as we do!

Your most treasured memories hold the key to fulfillment and living with purpose and joy. One of my friend Betsy’s fondest memories is a weeklong camping trip to Martha’s Vineyard when she was ten. When she talks about it you can practically smell the pungent smoke of the campfire, feel the breeze, and hear the ocean waves in the distance. As an adult, the camping trips she takes with her family as often as possible are a strong priority. They are like a release valve for the stress of daily living. Out in nature, physically active, and free from the usual daily routines, Betsy feels balanced and happy. She returns rejuvenated and ready to give her best at home and at work.

Here’s a way to let your memories guide you in setting priorities that support your best self.

1. Share your memories

Sit down with a trusted friend or your spouse and take turns sharing three of your most treasured memories. It’s important to find a time and place where you can relax without being disturbed. After each memory is shared, take a moment together to reflect on what made it special. You’ll have a lot of fun and some great laughs, but prepare to experience some deeper emotions too. You may be surprised at what comes to the surface.

2. Connect those memories to feelings

Reflect together on what felt most “alive” and compelling in the sharing. Be specific. For example: Was it the joy of witnessing children discovering the world, the invigorating feeling of being outdoors, or the energy that comes from giving hope to people in need? During the process, your friend might even observe that your face and expressions reveal more than you realize. For example, when you recall a memory you might look delighted, but sound wistful, too. These are all clues.

3. Identify an activity that will give you that feeling

Ask yourself what you really miss. Are your feelings powerful enough to make you want to sign up for a class, join a club, volunteer or find some other way to recreate the feeling? Spending a few hours a week on a special hobby could be all that it takes to reconnect you to joy.

4. Make that activity a priority

Put the activity on your calendar and, when the time comes, do it! Rachel, a forty-something school counselor, went to a family reunion. She and her brothers reminisced about what a good horsewoman she'd been in high school and college. Rachel dusted off her helmet, leased a horse, and signed up for dressage lessons. When she discovered that friends at her barn volunteered at a therapeutic riding center, she joined them. Helping kids was always her passion, but by reclaiming a treasured memory she was able to give new hope to emotionally challenged and physically disabled youngsters. That makes her feel more energized and vibrant than ever.

5. Support each others' new priorities

Let each other know when you’ve followed through on your new priority. Even an empty email with the simple words “I did it!” in the subject line is great motivation to continue. Then, as you begin to reap the benefits of the gift your memory has given you, find time to share the treasure with your friend.

We naturally reminisce as each year passes, and that paves the way for passing on what is precious. What makes you feel most alive and happy? Let that be your guide for creating your best life ever!