Discover How to Do a Life Audit and Actually Succeed at It

Let’s talk about how to audit your life and make positive changes

A life audit has the potential to transform your life in ways you might not even imagine. Yes, it might sound a bit intimidating, but trust me, it’s a powerful tool that can bring incredible clarity and help you align your actions with your true aspirations.

In this fast-paced world that we live in, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind, constantly juggling responsibilities and commitments.

But have you ever paused to reflect on whether you’re truly living the meaningful life you desire? Are your choices and actions in harmony with your values and dreams? If these questions have sparked a tiny flicker of curiosity within you, then you’re in the right place!

Now, you might be wondering how exactly to conduct a life audit. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Throughout this blog post, we’ll explore actionable steps that will guide you on this transformative journey.

But before we delve into the nitty-gritty details, remember this: Your own life audit is a highly personal process. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach here. It’s all about discovering what works best for you and embracing the unique path that unfolds as you navigate through the different areas of your life.

What is a life audit?

So, what exactly is this great thing called a life audit? Well, think of it as a magical toolbox that helps you gain crystal-clear clarity about where you stand in life. It’s like shining a bright spotlight on all the different areas of your existence and taking stock of what’s working and what’s not.

Imagine this. You’re the CEO of your own life. The life audit process is your chance to sit down in that fancy corner office and assess how things are going. It’s about peeling back the layers, reflecting on your values, dreams, and goals, and evaluating whether you’re living in alignment with them.

During a life audit, you’ll examine various aspects of your life, such as your relationships, career, physical health, emotional health, personal growth, finances, and more. It’s an opportunity to dig deep and ask yourself important questions.

The answers to these questions will give you valuable insights into areas that need improvement and areas where you’re rocking it.

But let me make one thing clear: A life audit isn’t about judgment or self-criticism. It’s not an opportunity to beat yourself up over past decisions or shortcomings. Instead, it’s a gentle exploration that helps you realign and make intentional choices moving forward.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you click on a link and purchase something I recommend, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Why is a life audit important?

Now, you might be wondering, “Why should I bother with this whole life audit thing?” Well, let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! Conducting a life audit is like peering through a magnifying glass and gaining a fresh perspective on your life’s big picture. Here’s why it’s so darn important:

Clarity like never before. Picture this. You’re standing at a crossroads, unsure of which path to take. A life audit swoops in like a trusty compass.

It guides you toward the direction that truly resonates with your heart and soul. It brings clarity to your dreams, values, and aspirations. It helps you make decisions with confidence.

Identifying the gaps. Life can sometimes feel like a jigsaw puzzle with a few missing pieces. Regular life audits help you spot those gaps—those areas where you might be neglecting your well-being or straying away from your true passions.

By pinpointing these gaps, you can make intentional changes and fill them with actions that align with your authentic self.

Celebrating your wins. Amidst the chaos of everyday life, it’s easy to overlook your achievements and milestones. A life audit lets you pause and give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back. It’s a chance to recognize and celebrate the progress you’ve made, both big and small.

Course-correcting with purpose. Life is a winding journey. Sometimes we veer off track without even realizing it. A life audit acts as your trusty GPS. It helps you course-correct and realign with your goals and aspirations.

It’s a chance to assess whether your current path is leading you to where you want to be or if it’s time to recalibrate and make changes that serve your greater purpose.

Cultivating self-awareness. Ah, self-awareness, the secret sauce to personal growth! A life audit nurtures your self-awareness muscle by encouraging deep introspection and reflection. It’s an opportunity to explore your strengths, weaknesses, desires, and fears.

The more you know yourself, the better equipped you are to make choices that honor who you truly are.

Taking charge of your life. Here’s the good thing: you have the power to design your life. A life audit reminds you that you’re the main character in your story and the master of your own destiny.

It empowers you to take ownership, make conscious choices, and create a life that’s aligned with your values, passions, and purpose.

Important signs you need to do a life audit

Feeling stuck in a rut. Have you ever had that nagging feeling that you’re stuck in the same old routine, going through the motions without any real sense of purpose or fulfillment?

If the days blur together and you find yourself yearning for something more, a life audit can help shake things up and bring back that zest for life.

Lack of direction and clarity. Are you feeling a little lost, unsure of whether you’re headed in the right direction in life? It’s like standing in the middle of a maze with no idea which path to take.

A life audit can be your trusted map. It can help you find your true north and gain clarity about your goals, dreams, and aspirations.

Disconnected from your values. Life has a way of pulling us in a million different directions. Sometimes, we can lose touch with our core values, those guiding principles that define who we are and what we stand for.

If you’re feeling a disconnect between your actions and your values, a life audit can help you realign and ensure that you’re living in alignment with your authentic self.

Overwhelm and burnout. Life can be overwhelming, with a never-ending to-do list and a constant demand for your time and energy. If you find yourself drowning in the sea of responsibilities, feeling burnt out and exhausted, a life audit can offer a lifeline.

It’s a chance to evaluate your priorities, set healthy boundaries, and create a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Longing for change and growth. Deep down, you might be craving change, growth, and personal development. You have this inner spark, this hunger for something more meaningful and fulfilling. A life audit can be the catalyst that moves you forward.

It helps you identify important areas of your life for growth, set new goals, and take actionable steps toward the best life you desire.

Feeling disconnected in relationships. Relationships are the cornerstone of our lives. When they start feeling strained or unfulfilling, it can take a toll on our overall well-being.

If you’re sensing a lack of connection or if your relationships aren’t nurturing and supportive, a life audit can help you assess the dynamics and make intentional choices that foster healthier connections.

Areas of life to consider while doing a life audit, aka the wheel of life

Career and work. This life area revolves around your professional pursuits, your job or career path, and your aspirations for growth and fulfillment in the work domain.

Relationships. This category contains your relationships with family, close friends, romantic partners, and even colleagues. It’s about assessing the quality, depth, and nourishment of these connections.

Health and well-being. This area focuses on your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It’s about nourishing yourself, adopting healthy habits, and ensuring a balanced and vibrant life.

Personal development. This category is all about your personal growth and learning. It includes areas such as expanding your knowledge, acquiring new skills, pursuing hobbies, and nurturing your inner self.

Finances. This area delves into your financial situation, including budgeting, saving, investing, and aligning your spending with your values and goals.

Hobbies and recreation. This category celebrates your hobbies, passions, and leisure activities. It’s about nurturing your soul, indulging in activities that bring you delight, and carving out time for pure fun.

Spirituality and meaning. This area explores your spiritual beliefs, practices, and pursuit of a deeper sense of purpose and connection to something greater than yourself.

Now let’s move on to the step-by-step guide on how to evaluate your life.

How to do a life audit

1. Set your intentions

First things first, we need to set those intentions. Why are you embarking on this transformative journey? What do you hope to achieve?

Setting your intentions is like charting the course for your life audit adventure. It’s about clarifying your purpose and guiding your exploration. Maybe you’re seeking greater clarity and direction, or perhaps you’re longing for more balance and fulfillment.

Whatever it is, let your heart and soul speak up and tell you what truly matters.

Start by asking yourself some soul-searching questions. What are your goals, dreams, and aspirations? Are there specific areas of your life that feel out of alignment or need a little extra love and attention?

2. Identify life categories

So, you’re wondering how to assess your life. Now is a good time to identify those juicy life categories that will serve as the backbone of your life audit! Think of these categories as the different chapters in your life story, each holding its own unique significance.

First, take a moment to reflect on what truly matters to you. What aspects of your life hold the most significance? What areas do you want to focus on and nurture? Consider the different dimensions that make up your existence—the areas where you want to see growth, improvement, or simply more joy.

These categories that I mentioned before are simply a starting point. Feel free to customize them based on your own priorities, passions, and areas of focus. Add or subtract categories as you see fit. This is your life audit, and it should reflect your unique journey.

3. Evaluate each category

How to do a life audit? It’s a good idea to take one category at a time and assess its current state. Consider your satisfaction levels, fulfillment, and overall well-being in that area.

First up, let’s evaluate our career and work. Take a moment to consider your level of satisfaction and fulfillment in your job or career path.

On the flip side, are there areas where you feel unfulfilled or disconnected from your passions? Consider whether your current work aligns with your values and long-term goals.

Next, let’s turn our attention to the quality of your relationships. Assess the quality of your connections with family, friends, romantic partners, and colleagues. Also, consider if there are any relationships that feel strained or in need of nurturing.

Ensure that your relationships align with your values and contribute to your well-being. Reflect on what changes or adjustments you can make to cultivate stronger and more fulfilling relationships.

Now, let’s take a deep breath and focus on our health and well-being. How are you currently taking care of yourself, both physically and mentally? Celebrate the healthy habits and self-care practices you’ve incorporated into your life.

Pay attention to any areas of your physical, mental, or emotional well-being that need attention or improvement. Listen to your body’s whispers and honor its needs. Ensure that you’re living in alignment with your health goals and values.

Moving on to personal development, let’s celebrate the journey of growth and learning. Reflect on how you’re currently nurturing your personal growth. Acknowledge the areas where you feel stagnant or in need of new challenges.

Embrace the opportunities that come your way and be open to stepping out of your comfort zone. Consider what changes or adjustments you can make to expand your knowledge and embrace new opportunities for growth.

Then let’s turn our attention to finances, a realm that often requires careful evaluation. To do a financial audit, take a moment to reflect on your financial habits and strategies.

Acknowledge the areas where you feel financially stressed or misaligned with your goals. Ask yourself if you’re living in alignment with your financial values and long-term aspirations.

Let’s also sprinkle some joy into our audit by exploring hobbies and recreation. Reflect on the activities and hobbies that bring you a sense of joy and fulfillment. Celebrate the moments of play, creativity, and self-expression.

However, also consider if there are any areas where you feel a lack of balance or neglect of your leisure time.

Lastly, let’s explore the realm of spirituality and meaning. Reflect on how you currently nurture your spiritual beliefs and practices. Celebrate the moments of deep connection and inner peace. Also, consider if this could be an area of life where you feel disconnected from a sense of meaning or purpose.

4. Set goals

Let’s move on to the next steps. Now that we have evaluated each category of our lives, it’s time to set SMART goals that will lead us toward a more fulfilling and purposeful existence.

Setting goals allows us to create a roadmap for our desired outcomes and provides a sense of direction in our personal growth journey.

Here’s the best life and goal planner that I’ve found really useful.

As you reflect on your evaluation, think about what success means to you in each area of your life. It could be achieving a certain level of satisfaction, improving your well-being, or reaching specific milestones.

Take the time to define your goals in a way that is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

For example, in your career and work, you might set a goal to advance to a higher position or explore a new field of interest. In relationships, you may strive to deepen connections with loved ones or build new meaningful connections.

When it comes to health and well-being, your goal could be to adopt healthier habits or engage in regular exercise.

Personal development goals could include learning new skills, expanding your knowledge, or pursuing your passions. Financial goals may involve saving a certain amount of money, reducing debt, or improving your financial literacy.

In terms of hobbies and recreation, you could aim to dedicate more time to activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. And in the realm of spirituality and meaning, your goal might be to nurture your spiritual practices or live in alignment with your values.

5. Prioritize

After setting goals in different categories of our lives, it’s essential to take a step back and assess which ones hold the highest importance and urgency for us personally.

How to audit your priorities? When it comes to prioritizing, consider the impact each goal will have on your well-being and happiness.

Some goals may have a more significant influence on your life, while others may be more time-sensitive or require immediate attention. Take a moment to reflect on what truly matters to you and aligns with your values and long-term vision.

Ask yourself, “Which goals will bring me the most fulfillment and contribute to my overall sense of well-being? Are there any goals that, if achieved, would have a domino effect and positively impact other areas of my life? Which goals require my immediate attention due to their time-sensitive nature or the potential consequences of postponing them?”

6. Create an action plan

First, take each of your goals and break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach allows you to tackle them one by one. This makes the process less overwhelming and more achievable.

For example, if your goal is to start a side business, your tasks could include conducting market research, creating a business plan, building a website, and promoting your products or services.

As you break down your goals into tasks, consider the resources, skills, and support you’ll need to accomplish them.

Are there any tools or materials you need? Do you need to gain new knowledge or develop specific skills? Are there people or communities that can provide guidance or support along the way? Identify what you need and make a list of the necessary resources and support systems.

Next, set deadlines for each task and create a timeline to track your progress. Having specific timeframes keeps you accountable and ensures that you stay on track. Be realistic with your deadlines. Allow yourself enough time to complete each task without overwhelming yourself.

Consider any external factors or commitments that may impact your timeline, and adjust accordingly.

Now, let’s talk about organization and prioritization. Review your list of tasks and determine their order of importance and dependencies. Are there tasks that you need to complete before you can start others? Arrange them in a logical sequence to ensure a smooth progression towards your goals.

Prioritize your tasks based on their impact and urgency, but also consider your own mental and physical energy levels and availability.

To stay motivated and focused, consider implementing visual reminders and tracking systems. You can use a physical or digital planner, set up reminders on your phone, or create a visual progress chart to keep you motivated.

7. Take action

Now it’s time to put your action plan into motion and dive into the exciting phase of taking action! This is where the rubber meets the road.

The best way to do that is to start by taking the first step toward your goals. It may feel intimidating at first, but remember that every journey begins with a single step.

Whether it’s making that important phone call, attending a networking event, or dedicating time each day to work on your passion project, take that leap of faith and start implementing your action plan.

Stay consistent in your efforts. Building new habits and making progress toward your goals requires dedication and persistence. Make a commitment to yourself to show up regularly and put in the necessary work.

Even on days when motivation weakens, remind yourself of the bigger picture and the positive impact achieving your goals will have on your life.

8. Monitor and reassess

Regularly review your progress to see how far you’ve come and whether you’re on track. Take some time to reflect on the actions you’ve taken and the results you’ve achieved. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how big or small.

Recognize the effort you’ve put in and give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back. Celebrating your successes boosts your motivation and reminds you of your capabilities.

During your review, also be honest with yourself about any obstacles or challenges you may have encountered. Life has its ups and downs. It’s essential to acknowledge any setbacks you’ve faced.

Learn from them and see how you can overcome them in the future. Remember, setbacks are not failures. They’re valuable learning opportunities that can ultimately lead to even greater growth and resilience.

As you review your progress, ask yourself if you’re still aligned with your goals and if your action plan is serving you well. Are you making the progress you envisioned? Have your priorities shifted or evolved?

Be open to reassessing your goals and making adjustments if necessary. Remember, your goals aren’t set in stone. It’s okay to adapt them as you grow and gain new insights.

9. Seek support if needed

The final step is to reach out to your trusted circle of friends and family. Share your aspirations, challenges, and progress with them. Sometimes, a simple conversation with a loved one can offer a fresh perspective or provide the encouragement you need to keep going.

Your loved ones are there to support you, so don’t hesitate to lean on them during this process.

Consider seeking guidance from mentors or role models who have walked a similar path. Their experiences and insights can be invaluable as you navigate your own journey.

Connect with them, either in person or through books, podcasts, or online communities. Learning from those who have already achieved what you aspire to can offer inspiration, motivation, and practical advice.

10. Ask yourself the following questions as part of your life audit

Career and job satisfaction:

1. Am I passionate about the work I’m currently doing?
2. Does my career align with my long-term goals and aspirations?
3. Am I satisfied with my current work-life balance?
4. Are there any skills or knowledge gaps I need to address to advance in my career?
5. Do I feel valued and recognized for my contributions in the workplace?
6. Am I satisfied with my current level of professional growth and development?
7. Does my career provide me with a sense of fulfillment and purpose?
8. Are there any opportunities for advancement or career transitions that I should explore?
9. How can I create more meaning and enjoyment in my daily work routine?
10. Is my current job allowing me to maintain a healthy level of financial stability and security?

Relationships:

1. Are my relationships nurturing and supportive?
2. Do I spend quality time with the right people who matter most to me?
3. Am I effectively communicating my needs and listening to the needs of others?
4. Are there any toxic or draining relationships that I need to address or let go of?
5. Am I investing enough time and effort into building and maintaining meaningful connections?
6. Do my relationships align with my values and bring out the best in me?
7. Are there any unresolved conflicts or misunderstandings that need attention?
8. Am I setting healthy boundaries in my relationships and honoring my own well-being?
9. How can I enhance the intimacy and connection in my romantic relationships?
10. Am I surrounding myself with people who inspire, challenge, and support my growth?

Health:

1. Am I taking care of my physical well-being through regular exercise and a balanced diet?
2. Do I get enough quality sleep to feel refreshed and energized?
3. How do I manage stress and prioritize my mental health?
4. Am I giving myself enough time for relaxation and self-care activities?
5. Are there any unhealthy habits or behaviors that I need to address?
6. Am I satisfied with my overall physical fitness and vitality?
7. Do I have regular health check-ups and take proactive steps to prevent illness?
8. How can I incorporate more movement and physical activity into my daily routine?
9. Am I nurturing a positive body image and practicing self-acceptance?
10. What steps can I take to improve my overall well-being and create a healthy lifestyle that suits me?

Personal development:

1. Am I investing time in activities that nurture my personal growth and self-discovery?
2. Do I have clear personal goals and a plan for achieving them?
3. Am I regularly challenging myself to step out of my comfort zone and try new things?
4. How do I cultivate a growth mindset and embrace opportunities for learning and development?
5. Are there any limiting beliefs or self-doubt holding me back from reaching my full potential?
6. Do I prioritize self-reflection and introspection to gain clarity and self-awareness?
7. Am I engaging in activities that bring me joy and align with my passions and interests?
8. How can I create more balance between work, personal life, and self-care?
9. Am I seeking opportunities for personal and professional networking and expanding my connections?
10. What steps can I take to foster personal resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges?

Finances:

1. Am I living within my means and maintaining a healthy financial balance?
2. Do I have a clear budget and financial plan to achieve my short- and long-term goals?
3. Am I saving enough for emergencies and future financial security?
4. How do I approach and manage debt or financial obligations?
5. Am I making informed decisions when it comes to investments and financial growth?
6. Do I have a healthy relationship with money, and am I practicing mindful spending habits?
7. Am I regularly reviewing and adjusting my financial goals based on changing circumstances?
8. How can I increase my financial literacy and make more informed financial decisions?
9. Do I have a plan for retirement, and am I actively working towards it?
10. What steps can I take to create a healthier and more sustainable financial future for myself?

Hobbies:

1. Am I regularly engaging in activities that bring me joy and fulfillment?
2. Do I have a creative outlet or hobby that allows me to express myself?
3. How do I balance my hobbies and interests with other aspects of my life?
4. Are there any new hobbies or skills I’d like to explore and incorporate into my life?
5. Am I setting aside dedicated time for pursuing my hobbies and passions?
6. Do I feel inspired and motivated when engaging in my favorite activities?
7. Are there any barriers or obstacles preventing me from fully enjoying my hobbies?
8. How can I incorporate my hobbies into my daily or weekly routine more consistently?
9. Am I seeking opportunities to connect with others who share similar interests?
10. What steps can I take to make my hobbies a more integral part of my life and overall well-being?

Spiritual life:

1. Do I have a sense of purpose and meaning in my life?
2. How do I cultivate a connection with something greater than myself?
3. Am I exploring and deepening my understanding of my personal beliefs and values?
4. Are there any spiritual practices or rituals that resonate with me and support my well-being?
5. Do I spend time in nature or engage in activities that nurture my soul?
6. Am I open to exploring different spiritual traditions or philosophies?
7. How do I integrate my spiritual beliefs into my daily life and decision-making?
8. Am I part of a supportive spiritual community or engaging in meaningful conversations about spirituality?
9. Are there any areas of my life where I feel a lack of alignment with my spiritual values?
10. What steps can I take to foster a deeper sense of connection and spirituality in my life?

That’s how you can complete a life audit

When was the last time you took stock of your life or focused on every aspect of your life?