10 EASY THINGS YOU CAN DO TO IMPROVE YOUR LIFE
You know those days, the days where you wish you could quickly find the reset button? It might be: you were running late and missed your cup of coffee, wore one black shoe and one navy shoe, overloaded by election emotions (yes, I said it), or simply didn't make time for yourself.
But no matter what the leading cause of your stress might be, there's no denying that it will always be there. But we can't help but feel hopeful for moments of peace, right? Sometimes all we need is to refocus and find things that can help direct positive energy in our lives, even if it's in the smallest way possible.
So don't fret—here are 10 things you can do that can improve your life and put a smile on your face (or at least distract you for a while).
1. KEEP A GRATITUDE JOURNAL
The best way to get out of a funk is to focus on the good. I know, it's easier said than done, but before you know it, you'll change your thought process and begin to embrace positivity. Even if it's just three things per day, the most important part is that you're taking time out of your day to actively seek the good and focus on gratitude.
2. DECLUTTER AND ORGANIZE
This is probably my favorite thing to do when I'm stressed. There are so many benefits in my opinion (so cheesy, but true). You'll channel your energy toward something that will be benefit you—aestethicgally, mentally and emotionally. Get rid of things that you don't love or use regularly and keep things that give you joy. It will feel freeing and I promise you, you'll feel renewed and ready to conquer the day when you're in a space that represents who you are.
3. WORK IT OUT
Yes, wallowing in self pity with a pint of ice cream is always on my to-do list when I am feeling down, but let's face it, the results are far from positive. I usually end up regretting my decision and feeling even worse than before. So let's change that trend, and spend our frustrations on the treadmill or on the yoga mat. Break a sweat, girl and release the negativity! Getting active and staying active will help you feel physically better, as well as mentally.
4. PLAY THE COMPLIMENT GAME
Challenge yourself to find lovely characteristics of a person and let them know you noticed them. Everyone loves a smile and compliment—be that person who changes someones day because you noticed how beautiful their eyes are or how contagious their laugh is. People love to feel appreciated, loved and valued.
5. READ A BOOK INSTEAD OF SCROLLING ON YOUR PHONE
Now, it's almost unusual to see someone without a phone in their hands. Everyone nowadays can't sit still for a moment without scrolling through social media (I admit I am an addict), but what if we carried around a book rather than our phone? We could be embracing intelligence, an open mind and a wider vocabulary and imagination. Think about it. Engaging in stories, ideas and knowledge can help us focus things other than our stress.
6. CALL YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY
Talking to friends and family who have your best interest at heart can always help remind you of the good. Sometimes life gets in the way and before we know it, we find ourselves drifting away or too busy to contact the ones closest to our hearts. Even if it's just a five minute phone call or a quick lunch date, those are the times that we crave the most—don't miss out.
7. THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK
I know this seems a little childish, but if we really evaluate our lives, you'll see we could review this life lesson. I remember in elementary, a teacher squeezed out toothpaste and tried to put it back in the tube—it was virtually impossible. This showed that our words can't be reversed—once they are said, you can't take them back. Words are power, just think, are you lifting people up or cutting them down? Thoughtless words can have damage, think before you speak.
8. TRY SOMETHING NEW
Test your limits—plan a trip to a new city, try a new workout, sign up for guitar lessons. It doesn't matter what the new activity is, just get out there and try it. Experiencing new things can lead to a fuller life, more creativity, new perspectives and crazy memories. Don't get stuck in the "same old same old" attitude, try something new.
Photos by Lowell Wagner
9. DRINK MORE WATER
Seriously, this might sound simple (and maybe a little stupid), but I have been trying to drink more water and my mind and body feel 100% better—just by drinking water! Hello! Such an easy fix, not to mention it creates stronger cells, better skin and a clearer mind.
10. BE KIND TO YOURSELF
It's easy for life to get out of control—yes, the down spiral is a real thing. But don't let the stress get in the way of doing what you love. Give yourself patience and be gentle with your heart. If you make time to do things that fulfill you, then you'll see more joy in the world. It's a cycle. Find value in your life, cultivate creativity and create love within yourself—it will carry through other aspects in your life.
What helps you get through the day or what small changes do you make on a day-to-day basis?