It’s funny how the smallest things can suddenly snowball into the most amazing realizations. Well, that’s what happened to me last week. I don’t know whether it was because my phone had run out of battery or there was a blackout or something, (probably because my phone ran out of battery... let's be honest) but I had decided to pick up a book I’d started to read last summer. Anyway, while flipping through the pages, totally engrossed with the story, I took a sip of my coffee and thought to myself, “I should definitely get back into reading more like I used to”. And, like most thoughts, it spiralled out of control as I began thinking of all the other things I should do more often too.
What struck me hardest when making my list, however, was just how obvious all these things were and that it was just a case of reminding myself just how good they always make me feel. Trust me: doing these things more often really can make a difference - a big difference - and the commitment isn’t anything crazy either. Once a day, once a week, once a month - it doesn’t matter, they all have the power to make a huge difference to you and your life.
1. Read More Books
Novels, non-fiction, autobiographies, young adult stories, business books, anything. So long as you are reading to expand your thinking or boost your range of empathy, you’ll be doing yourself a great deed. But that’s the great thing about books. There are so many life lessons to learn, making it one of the best ways you can invest your time.
2. Turn Off Your Phone
Sure, technology has some incredible benefits, but so does separating yourself from it. We know this won’t be easy because of the sudden addiction we have all picked up, but turning your phone off, removing that distraction and evading social media will have an incredibly positive influence on you. Even for just a few hours at a time. At a recent Facebook event I went to, they mentioned how 1 out of every 5 minutes someone is on Facebook or Instagram... isn't that crazy?! So, grocery shopping, watching a movie, going to church for an hour... you have checked one of your social platforms 12 times..... YIKES!
3. Donate Something
There are a hundred ways you can donate and each of them will leave the world a better place and you will feel better about yourself. Donate some money to Cane Bay Partners, donate clothes to your nearest thrift shop, old toys to your local children’s hospital, food to the homeless and even your blood. By becoming a more giving person, you’ll be making the world a better place.
4. Get Into The World
It’s so easy to just slump onto your sofa and binge watch an entire Netflix series that you semi-enjoy. I do it literally every weekend. But it’s so much better to get out and see the world around you. Go for more walks, hikes and bike rides - anything that will fill your lungs with fresh air and have you surrounded by nature. It will clear your head and give you the space to think more freely.
5. Call Your Family
The older we get, the less we go home. It’s a reaction to life. But, from time to time, make an effort to speak to your family, even if it’s just to say how much you love them. Talk to them about your day, ask them about theirs, ask the questions you’ve always pondered and remind them how much you care for them.
Do these things more often and life will get a whole bunch better. I promise!
xo,
Kenzie
*Please note that this post may have affiliate links* Any products listed or reviews and opinions are as always of my own and true to how I feel.