Sometimes life can really feel like a drag. You get stuck in this cycle of staying up late studying or working, hitting snooze on your morning workout and your 8 a.m., whoops, and not feeling like you're really accomplishing anything. It can be really difficult to stay motivated and to achieve goals when you're so busy being busy that life simply becomes a meaningless routine. Lucky for you, there are some easy ways to stop just going through the motions of life. Here are five easy ways you can start getting the most out of the life you got, after all, you only live once!
1. Detox from technology
The worst thing to do when you feel like you don't have time for leisure and fun is to waste it on your phone. Don't become a slave to technology. Make sure you set ground rules for yourself on when you are using your phone or other screen time. I try to not use my phone when I am with friends or family, it helps me get the most out of my time with them. Another great way I have limited my social media and technology use is setting one hour each day or even a whole day to not use any technology, it is so refreshing.
2. Write down what you want from your day
If you feel like you're not accomplishing your goals maybe it's because your priorities aren't what you think they are. This year I started utilizing my planner better. I write out everything I want to do each day and when I want to do it. When you detail out when you want to pray, workout, study, eat, shower, sleep, meditate, etc. you become much more accountable and successful in actually accomplishing what you want to.
3. Take breaks
Remember to be gentle with yourself. The paper will get done, the essay will be finished, the exam will be taken. It will be okay, take some time to do something relaxing. Take a work/study break and go for a run, have a dance party in your room, watch a show, grab a meal with a friend. You've got this!
4. Pick up a hobby
I know, even though we all wish it was, sleeping is not a real hobby. Find something you like to do and that gets you excited. There needs to be something that keeps you sane and motivated to work on. Try something new, maybe it will end up being a true passion.
5. Be present
Live in the moment you are in. You can't always worry about the test this week or the paper due next week. Try to enjoy the moment you are in because it goes quick. Enjoy the people around you, make some memories, and try not to take things too seriously. After all, you only get this one life, live it!