Life can get a little overwhelming
Life can feel like one big rush. We’re always rushing somewhere, or doing something. We now have to make a conscious effort to pencil in the days where we’re not. This is ok. In fact, sometimes we thrive on it. But sometimes it’s important to just slow down. In our rush to live life, we can forget to be kind to ourselves. And kindness is a huge factor in our health and happiness, self-kindness even more so.
Reward yourselves with treats
According to Gretchin Rubin, author of The Happiness Project (a #1 New York Bestseller), rewarding ourselves is the best way to form good habits. When we give more to ourselves, we can ask more of ourselves. When we don’t treat ourselves we become depleted, resentful and burnt-out. But, interestingly, the definition of treat is so different amongst people. Some people buy themselves something nice, some watch a funny video, others do the ironing????
Choose your people carefully
The strength of your relationships can have a huge effect on your well-being. Surround yourself with those who bring out the best in you. Maximise contact with people that build you up, and minimize contact with those that bring you down.
Make a conscious effort to plan your day thoughtfully
We’ve all felt the headless chicken syndrome. So much to do, so little time. And then when you start doing it, you just go from activity to activity with a nagging sense that nothing’s getting done and everything’s taking too long. When this starts to happen it’s important to take a mental step back, breathe and prioritise. Then once you’ve done that, try to factor in an enjoyable activity for you to do. It could be taking a bath or sitting and enjoying a coffee and a piece of cake with no interruptions. Whatever it is, make sure you assign one activity that’s just for you.
Mindfulness
Sometimes we can get so caught up in certain situations, it ruins the rest of our day. Perhaps someone upset you and all you can do is focus on that. Or you had an argument with a friend in the morning and it’s affecting your behaviour at home. The simple act of being mindful and in the present can set you back on the right course. Notice that you’re getting consumed by the situation. Then, without judgement, work out what it was that made you so upset. Often, the simple process of gathering your thoughts can help us to understand the emotion behind the reaction. Once you’ve done this, you can talk to the person and try to solve the problem. Rather than letting it to consume you during your family time or at your desk.