“Change is unsettling at first, messy in the middle and gorgeous at the end.” – Robin Sharma.
People often say that waking up early, meditation, working out, and taking a healthy diet are the small things that make a big difference. We couldn’t agree more. But do you think it’s possible to make these a habit so soon?
Incorporating these things into your daily routine may take time because sometimes we are lazy, sometimes we forget, and sometimes we are not just in the mood.
So why not let baby steps be baby steps? Here are some easy-peasy small things you can easily incorporate to bring about a positive change.
Other than having a healthy mindset, living in a happy environment too adds up to your lifestyle. Surrounding yourself with positive and inspiring people enriches the life significantly. Also, it streamlines your thoughts and helps you strive for what you believe in. From ‘I can’t‘ to ‘I can,‘ you can lead a much happier life. Ready to make small changes that will change your entire life?
1. Splurge money on experiences
Every experience, good or bad, is a priceless item.
As per an article published in Forbes, it is found that spending money on things isn’t what makes one happy. It surely may please you for a short while, but what actually makes us happy is spending money on experiences. Like the good old days, when you used to visit a fair with your parents. Or, the times when learning to ride a bike was an achievement itself. The smiles and memories of those little things is what happiness tastes like.
How to do it: Instead of spending all the bucks on shopping or junk eating, go and book yourself a day trip. Travel to somewhere beautiful and learn something new. Other than travelling, you can also try teaching something or pursuing your left-behind hobby. Visiting an old people’s home or foster home for better and motivating experiences is also enriching.
2. A baby bucket list
Well, you can call it a baby bucket list but it’s not a to-do list. It includes small things you wanted to do long back, but couldn’t. These things could be anything from a simple Thai dinner to getting a new tattoo. It’s completely up to you. There are many thrilling moments out there big and small just waiting to be unveiled. Don’t hold them back anymore.
How to do it: To begin with, pen out the things close to your heart. Start with the small things like painting your nails or giving your hair a new look. Remember, baby steps.
3. Be easy on yourself
We are humans and we commit mistakes. Sometimes, it’s not the mistakes but the fear of being left out in the competition of success. That fear makes us work our asses off. To be passionate is one thing, but churning yourself like a machine is another. Besides, this process eats you up. So, why not take a short break and pamper yourself? Get some alone time to figure out life and come back stronger.
How to do it: The first thing is to remember and prioritise your tasks, and celebrate little appreciations from the boss. Don’t beat up yourself if things go the other way. Learn from your mistakes and keep going. Remember that no one can take away your hard work and its credit.
4. Disconnect to connect
Like us, you too must have found your parents complaining about your constant use of phones or laptops. We agree, social sites are a great way to pass time but don’t let them get in the way of your family time.
All we need to do is unplug from the virtual world for only 30 minutes. Trust us; nothing beats stress more than personal interaction with family and friends.
How to do it: Call people you haven’t seen in a while or spoken to. Even better, pay a surprise visit to your parents on the weekend.
5. Hold a gratitude bucket list
Yes! It is one of the sweet shortcuts to happiness. As our teachers taught us:
Count your blessings, not your problems.
Just follow this simple advice, and you’ll find yourself as the richest person. You’ll also start noticing simple joys and beauty all around like the moon in the night-sky, or the gush of soft wind. If you feel thankful to someone or something, express it. For instance, tell your cook that last night’s dinner was lip-smacking. You just might make their day!
How to do it: Easiest way to start is by listing three things you’re thankful for. Express your gratitude for them. You will soon see a positive change in your perspective.
6. Remember the two-minute rule
This small change is as simple as prioritising your tasks. If something comes up that will take less than two minutes, just do it. Don’t procrastinate or put it off, or else you will only be carrying the mental tension that it has to be done. This way, you can easily avoid feeling swamped by too many things piling up on you.
How to do it: Pay bills rather than waiting for the last date. Complete work before deadlines.
7. Smile, don’t frown
Frowning takes more muscle-work than smiling. Besides, smiling increases your face value and releases endorphins which enhances mood. Still need a reason?
Well, we got one more.
The happier you are, the more positivity you attract. How great is that? It just makes you more confident to face any situation.
How to do it: Simple, just take out an old photo album and flick through the pages. You will begin smiling in no time.
Change gives us the opportunity to hit the reset button in a situation and resume it differently. Say “hi” to the beautiful world we’ve been casually missing.
You don’t have to make all these changes instantly.
Always remember… You’re one baby step away from a totally different life.
If you enjoyed this article, please feel free to share it with your friends and family so that they can change their life too. Remember, sharing is caring!
Author: Ayushi Bhatnagar
This article is brought to you by Ayushi Bhatnagar from 9ightout and intends to spread happiness and positivity. The blog takes a careful look at the everyday stress and anxiety many of us go through & offers some practical solutions.
