In today’s day and age, it seems our lives consist of working to pay off student loans and spending most of our free time on social media. Many of us can lose sight of what’s truly important. We shouldn’t forget we have control over our own lives, and we can make whatever changes necessary to be happier and healthier. Here are 11 things we should try to incorporate into our daily routine.
1. Make your bed.
We’ve all heard our mom tell us to make our beds in the morning. I’ve found making my bed in the morning sets the tone for a productive day and is very nice to come home to.
2. Make a to-do list.
Starting your day by making a list of your priorities takes about five minutes and allows you to be more organized. It helps ensure all your important tasks are done and gives you a chance to plan for your day.
3. Read.
Read a book or do a crossword on your lunch break instead of sitting on your phone. Whether it be your textbook, the Bible or whatever book catches your attention at the library. It’s proven the more you read or do activities that challenge your brain, the less likely you are to get Alzheimer’s disease.
4. Exercise.
I love binge watching my favorite show on Netflix as much the next person, but instead of watching five episodes of said show in a row, watch two and spend the rest of the time getting some exercise in, or go for a walk with your dog and enjoy the fresh air and sights around you. It sounds painful at first, but you’ll thank me later.
5. Spend time with your loved ones.
We all have busy schedules. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t take the time to cherish the important people in our lives because they won’t always be there. Have dinner with your grandparents, call your siblings, make time for your parents at least once a week. I promise you it will mean the world to them.
6. Learn something new.
Instead of spending endless hours on social media, try learning a new language, find new recipes to try with friends or simply find something new to try and experience. Expand your mind.
7. Smile at people, say hello.
This does not take much effort. Take the headphones out of your ears and stop pretending like you're doing something important on your phone to avoid conversation. You may meet some great people this way. Something as little as smiling at someone or saying hello can make a difference in their day. You never know what someone else may be going through.
8. Take that nap.
Naps are for adults too. It’s okay to skip out on doing laundry one day or to procrastinate on something just a little bit in order to get some relaxation. A little nap never hurt anyone.
9. Drink water.
Seems like a given, right? You’d be surprised how many people don’t really drink water. Skip the pop and grab some water instead. You’ll have clearer skin and even feel better in general. It helps your kidneys, energizes your muscles and much more. Download a water reminder app on your phone if you need to. Your body will thank you.
10. Eat three meals a day.
Don’t skip out on a meal because you don’t have time to eat. You owe it to yourself, and your body to get an adequate amount of carbs and calories. A cup of coffee in the morning does not count as breakfast and it will not boost your metabolism. A bag of chips does not count as lunch. Make yourself a sandwich the day before or grab a salad during lunch. At least have a bagel in the morning. You’ll see the difference.
11. Dance.
Turn the music up and dance around your room or kitchen. It’s almost necessary to let loose and take some time to be silly. Being uptight never does anyone any good. Dance it out.
When you take the time to really prioritize what’s important to you, you’ll find it really isn’t as hard as it seems to make some changes to better your life. We spend so much time doing things that do not benefit us the least bit so why not switch those things out for the things that do? I promise you will start to see all the positive effects these changes will have on your life.
