As people, we should never stop improving ourselves. Sometimes those improvements don’t have to be huge. Certain, small habits can have an enormous, positive impact on your life. For me, life is all about positively improving yourself and your life every single day. Here are some very small habits that can truly improve your life:
1. Exercise
I know you hear it all the time but exercise is truly life changing, (in all the best ways). There are so many benefits to even small amounts of daily exercise! It will boost not only your mood, but your health as well š . Start with small goals and keep working your way up. You’ll be happy you did!
2. Affirmations
It may sound a bit corny, but there is no denying that affirmations truly do help improve mental health. By repeating things to yourself, (either in your mind or aloud – perhaps in front of a mirror), you are training your brain to believe the words you are speaking. There are loads of affirmations out there that can benefit anyone. Even starting your day by repeating, “Today is going to be awesome”, can be a wonderful starting point.
3. Stretching first thing in the morning
You know, sometimes it’s the smallest habits that can have the greatest impact. As soon as you wake up, stretch. Take at least 2-5 minutes to stretch in the AM. (I prefer doing some light yoga in the morning as soon as I wake up). It will get you loose and ready for the day ahead.
4. Keep a Planner
I say it all the time – a planner is a life-changer. Having set tasks each day to accomplish will really help motivate you to get it done. (It’s also handy for remembering important dates and deadlines).
5. Smile & Laugh more
Again, very simple! When you pass strangers throughout the day – smile at them. Just having a smile on your face can drastically improve not only your mood but the mood of those around you. Make time for laughter – don’t take every moment in life so seriously. The whole world can benefit from smiling and laughing more. š
6. Spend time outside
Sometimes the best medicine really is some fresh air. Spend time outside, (when weather permits of course). You’ll get that natural dose of vitamin D and it has been proven that spending time outside can also improve mental health.
7. Read More
As a nerd, I simply can’t get enough books. Reading more will help improve memory and also provide some entertainment, as well as knowledge. Reading a good book is also a great way to escape for awhile, (something we all need from time to time).
8. Adopt a Hobby you LOVE
It’s jarring to me when I meet people with no hobbies. There are loads of options out there and having a hobby you love is guaranteed to improve your life. One saying goes: “Have 3 hobbies – 1 that makes you money, 1 that helps you express yourself creatively and 1 that keeps you in shape.” I will do an article soon on lots of various hobbies to try out if you’re not sure where to start.
9. Drink more H20
Our bodies are mostly water and if you’re thirsty, you’re already on the road to dehydration. There are tons of benefits of drinking more water. It’s simple, yet can have a huge impact on your life.
10. Save Money (even small amounts add up)
EVERYONE should have an emergency fund and a savings. There are small ways to do this – even if you’re just saving spare change or dollar bills. Try to save money whenever and wherever you can. You’ll be happy you have it later. Having a good savings will also help you deal with the stress we’ve all experienced, (at one point or another), over money.
11. “Grazing”
What is grazing, exactly? Well, it’s eating 8-10 very small meals throughout the day instead of large ones. Sometimes eating healthier can be all about portion control. This method of eating aids in weight loss and is being adopted by more people everyday.
12. Listen to Music you Love all the time
One thing you’ll never hear anyone say: “I hate music.” Music is one thing that sort of unites us all as a species. We all have our preferences, but everyone loves music. Having it in the background throughout your day is a HUGE mood booster and also helps with productivity and creativity. Find music you love and have it around you as much as you are able. Truly, you’re mood will improve.
13. Practice Gratitude
Don’t always focus on the negative. We all face obstacles in life – it’s part of it. However, focus on what you are thankful for. We take so many things in this life for granted. Remember to be thankful for everything you do have instead of focusing on what you don’t. Even taking some time to write down everything you are thankful for is a great practice.
14. Get it off your chest
If something is bothering you – get it off your chest! Seriously, holding in negative emotions over extended periods of time will make you bitter. If something bothers you – remove it, discuss it or fix it. Even if you have to go on Reddit to vent – do it. Holding in the bad will let it linger, fester and become a problem.
15. Meditate in the Shower
As your in the shower, meditate. I’m not talking about anything hardcore either, (I’ve yet to completely be able to meditate). However, while showering, think of the water almost as if it’s quite literally “washing away the negativity”. It may sound silly, but it works.
16. Keep in Contact with Friends & Family
Keep those you love in your life. Even if you’re just sending each other silly memes or a simple “Love you” to mom and dad. Stay in touch with those you care about. Time passes so quickly and it can be so easy to lose touch with people you care about – leading to the awkward, “Should I reach out first” inner dialogue. Being surrounded by people you love is a great way to stay positive and happy.
17. Love Yourself
Focus on the positives about yourself. There is so much self-loathing going on these days. Loving yourself or sometimes learning to love yourself can be the best change you can make in your life. Take note of your positive qualities and avoid focusing on the flaws, (unless you plan to change them).
As people, we are all unique and there are so many ways to improve life and improve yourself. Remaining positive is key and often the smallest changes have the biggest impact on our happiness and quality of life. Never stop improving yourself and always remember to nourish yourself – mind, body and spirit. šĀ
Have a great week, everyone! Keep leveling up š
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