We live in an age where people are expected to have everything planned - their career, family, lifestyle and retirement plans. We spend restless days and nights trying to get a college degree only to spend more restless days and nights working. We take on a life where we are nothing more than robots.
And that needs to change.
We aren't robots, we don't have a plethora of information programmed into our minds that can be easily conjured up when asked. Instead, we are humans that feel, that conflict, that live.
But with advancing technology and a fast-paced lifestyle it's hard to stay intact with human nature. There are so many things that have been done before that were left in the dark somewhere that really needs to come back. There are other things that we should start doing to keep a calm and nice lifestyle.
1. Dream Journal.
Writing down your dreams right after you wake up before you forget them. Write down as much detail as you can remember. Sometimes, our minds have so much to tell you and the only path of communication is through dreams. Really zero in on your dreams and find a message your conscious might be telling you.
2. Complimenting Friends and Strangers.
As humans, one inevitable characteristic we face is jealousy. With jealousy that we, in no way, acknowledge it to the other person. But turn that jealousy into a positive trait. Compliment them, tell them something you genuinely like about them. It not only brightens their day, but it makes you happier too, knowing you made someone happy. And what goes around, comes around.
3. Eating By Yourself at Least Once.
This seems really scary and intimidating, but it's one obvious sign that you have grown and matured. You don't need people with you ALL the time. Give yourself some alone time for you to just eat and think to yourself. And you won't have to worry about anyone trying to steal your food.
4. Calling more, instead of Texting.
Texting can be more convenient than calling at times, but that doesn't mean we should stop calling entirely. If you're making plans with someone, call them. It's easier and faster and straightforward. If you're getting life advice from a friend, call them. There's no confusion on what either of you are saying and you can hear the tone in each others voices. And it's more genuine because you hear each other talking.
5. Find a hobby.
As stated earlier, we live in a fast-paced world that demands so much of us. Most of us find that we barely find time to do tasks we are required to do, like work and school. And when it comes to people asking us what we like to do for fun, we don't know how to answer, except for sleeping, because we never have free time. Make time, even it's just for 30 minutes, to explore different things that you might like: reading, knitting, painting or surfboarding. Trust me, you are not wasting time, but rather utilizing time to find something you're passionate about.
6. Re-watch old shows.
Relive your childhood and watch old cartoons and remember what it was like to live a carefree life.
7. Jar of Hope.
Every day write down a good thing that happened to you or something that made you happy on a slip of paper and put it in a jar.
8. Handwritten Notes and Letters.
Sending handwritten notes give off implications of how much you care because of how much time and effort you put into it.
9. Appreciate Nature.
Open your window and breathe the fresh air. Listen to nature. Explore wildlife. Life wasn't meant for people to just sit in an office and work on an Excel spreadsheet all day long. Look around you and see what you share this planet with.
10. Downsizing.
You don't honestly need everything you have. Pack up bags of clothes you haven't worn in months and clothes that don't fit anymore and send them to donations. Donate or sell anything you don't use anymore. I guarantee you someone else is needing it more than you.
11. Write Your Grocery List By Hand.
Do you ever walk into the grocery store and always forget one item that you need? And it's the most important item too? Write down your list, you'll remember it easier because you're kinesthetically learning and thinking about it.
12. Get Lost.
In music, in nature, on the road. Take time to get away from the nonsense that is responsibilities. And when you're ready to go back, let your mind and body guide you back.
13. Read a book.
A book you know for sure you will enjoy. Engulf yourself in the perspective of another person. Enlighten yourself of other people's unfortunate realities. 
14. Writing in Cursive.
As society gets older, fewer and fewer students are being educated in cursive. Yes, not everyone uses it, but some people do. And like any other language, it is imperative to learn how to understand and read it. In addition, if you're so against cursive, give it a chance; it's so much easier to write, especially if you can make it your own kind of cursive.
The New Year's was a month ago, but don't lose sight of what we hoped to accomplished this year. Never cease to look for ways to change your habits or live a better life. Train yourself to be the person you want to be. And the rest will come naturally.
