What's important in living the good life?

I'll be the first one to say I don't represent the best version of myself every moment of each and every day. However, finding success in living the good life comes from recognizing there's always a chance to better yourself and striving to focus on the important things in life everyday. Everyone defines the important things in life differently. We all have different values. We have different goals. We are individuals. And, our 'list' changes as we change. Change is inevitable. Change is constant. Change is positive.

At this point, what defines the important things in life for me? My list can be summed up in a series of words and phrases. The signficance of the list is much more powerful when reflection is used to expand basic thoughts and ideas. Some people may be able to prioritize their list. However, I believe each element of my list is equally as important and often times loses it's impactfulness and powerfulness when not coupled and embraced hand-in-hand with the other elements.

• Trust. Confidence in others. Developed and maintained through honesty and integrity. Often times you cannot have trust without respect and also cannot have respect without trust. The greater trust someone has in you, the greater your ability to positively impact others. And, others have a great trust in you display passion. 
• Integrity. Consistency in character and honesty. Continually acting according to values, beliefs and principles. Serves as a cornerstone for trust. 
• Influence. Ability to positively impact others'. Strive each and every day to have a positive impact on others. Your influence may help others to make a positive change, accept an unsettling reality, and live their good life. 
• Optimism. Having a positive outlook helps you to have a greater positive impact on others. Yes, there is complete merit in being honest about the realities. I live in a world of realities and it's often my job to provide a reality check. But, someone has to be optimistic. You might be the only person that is optimistic about a situation and gives hope to someone who is dependent on your influence. Also, the more positive your outlook, the happier you'll be. 
• Respect. Respect for yourself and for others. You do not have the right to respect; you must earn it. If you first respect yourself, then others will follow suit. Respect is not defined by being liked; you can be revered with great respect by someone who does not 'like' you, your personality, beliefs, etc. 
• Passion. Find true happiness in your actions and interactions. Be passionate about your life and relationships. How can you have a positive impact on those you interact with if you're not passionate about your time with them -- even if only brief moments? Be passionate about your life's work. Find something that makes you happy and work at it, then it won't really seen like 'work' or a 'job.' If you are passionate about your 'job,' you will be able to have a greater influence on others. 
• Family. Blood and marriage do not define family. You can have multiple families whose relationships are defined differently. There are many types of love, and anyone you care about, you love. You still love people even if they frustrate you, make you angry, or upset you. Anyone you love is part of your family. Your family changes as you change. As we move through life, our family grows. Love has no capacity and neither does our family. Often times our 'friends' compose one or more of our 'families.'

Tomorrow the elements and definition of how I live a good life may change, but the foundation will remain the same. Reflection is key knowing and defining how you will live the good life in an ever-changing world. We are all unique individuals, so it's important not to change our definition to mimick someone who we are not. Be you. Be happy. Live the good life. 

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” ~ Howard Thurman