You probably already know everything I'm about to tell you. HOWEVER, it's still refreshing to hear because sometimes, the udders of our seemingly mundane life need a little help squeezing out every last drop of milk. I, like most people, am on a journey of finding myself. Here are things I've noticed that help me appreciate life a little more.
1. Pump the breaks on social media
You've probably never heard of this revolutionary idea before so it's a little hard to grasp what I'm saying. Okay, so you have heard of it but here's the catch...it works. Being "unplugged" is honestly one of the best things for building self confidence and enjoying life more.
Don't get me wrong, I'm an avid user and love social media, but I also fall victim to its death trap qualities. it's one big life-sucking vortex that steals your time. But it's hard because I have to have Facebook, or else...would I even be socially accepted??
a.) Turn off those dang notifications
Nowadays, it's all about instant gratification. Seeing those "likes" roll in on your latest Instagram picture is like crack cocaine. We become trained to not participate in reality because we need to always know what's going on in the social media world. One way to combat this, I've noticed, is turning off the notifications on my phone for all my social media. Shocker, I know. You're probably wondering how I've been coping, but let me tell you, I'm a survivor. I don't feel compelled to go on social media all the time because I don't see the notifications.
b.) Take a hiatus
Another tactic is deleting social media for a while. Taking little breaks sounds pointless but it's refreshing. Now, I'm human, just like the rest of you, and I'm also a college-aged girl in the 21st century so yeah, I'm going to keep my Twitter and Instagram in the long run. But when I notice myself spending too much time on there or stalking a little too obsessivly, then I need to take a break. Granted, my "breaks" only last a day or two or sometimes a week, but even that is like hitting a "reset" button. I like the creative stimulation of social media so I don't think I'll completely deactivate my accounts, but knowing when I need a break is key. Sure, anxiety and FOMO (fear of missing out) set in, but I get over it. I realize, I have more time to appreciate the little things in life...no mo' FOMO!!
2. Appreciate the little things
We don't truly appreciate life enough. A lot of the time, we don't look at the amazingly radical things around us, WHICH IS CRAZY. Clouds are insanely cool. Time itself is inexplicably and complexly cool. Conversation is extremely cool. As of late, I've become fascinated with other people; what makes them tick, why they're unique, blah blah blah. Appreciating the little things like the guy on the highway, car window down, riding the air with his hand like waves. Along with that, I've been trying to cherish the time I spend with the people who are close to my heart. I notice the way my friend laughs or my dog's habit of resting his head on my leg and snoring, or the thought processes of my sweet brother. There is so much negativity in this world, so it's important to cherish the little nuances of life.
3. Take that selfish chip off your shoulder
I hate to break it to you, but you are not, in fact, the most superior specimen to roam the earth. Our inherent sinful, selfish nature gets the best of us, like a lot. We are self absorbed human beings. So, the only solution is to be selfless. Focus your energy outward, toward the benefit of others; it is extremely rewarding. So, go out there and love people a little more, without expecting anything in return.
4. Don't be lazy
Easier said than done, am I right people? I am definitely a victim of this horrible phenomenon. I'm not talking about climbing mountains vs. sitting on the couch. I'm talking about being lazy with friendships, not trying your best in school or at your job, taking your family for granted, etc. When I'm not lazy or only thinking of myself, I feel so much better. I feel purposeful and proactive. I make stronger relationships. I am more attuned to other people so I can make them feel good and am more willing to do so. I feel like I'm getting more out of life than the average (figurative) couch potato.
I was once inspired by a good friend that you just have to LIVE LIFE LOUDLY, never being timid or scared to be who you were made to be. Why not live life to the fullest? Why not be crazy just for the heck of it? The sad reality is, you might not wake up tomorrow, so milk the heck out of life TODAY with everything you have while you can...because why not?
Keeping these four things in mind, you will conquer life and have no more troubles. Piece of cake.
Haha. You wish.
