As I sit in Bradley International airport, waiting for my flight home for spring break, I have been pondering more breaks than just my upcoming break. There are many things in life that I firmly believe we could all take a break from, at least for a bit. Whether it be your phone and technology, or things or people that make you angry and upset, we could all use a break from something in life. Here are a few of my ideas.
1. Take a break from the indoors.
When many people think of “taking breaks,” they think of sitting on the living room couch and simply relaxing. Yet, one of the greatest ways to feel rejuvenated in my mind is to get outside and get some fresh air. The indoors can often make us feel trapped and stressed, so do yourself a favor and say goodbye to your couch and hello to the beautiful blue sky and bright, hopeful sun.
2. Take a break from your phone and from technology.
In today's society, so much time is wasted by watching TV and staring at our phones. Even if it is the middle of the day, we often turn to Netflix and get dragged into watching hours of TV a day. We waste so much time staring at screens instead of our beautiful world and the people in it. So instead of focusing on the tiny screen in front of your face and the people and events going on there, focus on the real events and real people in your own life. Be present. Live in the now.
3. Take a break from people who make you angry or upset.
People that consistently make you angry in life may not be the best people in your life. If you have someone in your life like this, try taking a break from this person for a week and see how this makes a difference in your attitude and mindset. I’m not saying you should not ever talk to or see this person again, but take this time to yourself to remember that you have control over your own emotions and that you should not let others get under your skin. Remind yourself of what healthy, happy relationships look like during your break and, hopefully, when you see this person again, the relationship will have improved.
4. Take a break from things or people that worry you.
Similar to feeling angry, there is no need to worry 24/7. If something or someone is making you anxious and making you worry, take a step back for a while. Remember that you are on God’s path. You need not worry and be anxious for the future. Remind yourself of what is truly important in life. Focus on those things instead of the little, worrisome ones. Let go of the negativity and take in the positivity. Take a step back and simply breathe.
5. Take a break from guilt and your past.
Guilt can really bog us down in life. If we feel guilty about something, it can bring down our entire attitude and make us feel miserable. I firmly believe that learning to forgive not only others, but also ourselves, is one of the most important lessons of life. We will not always make the best decisions in life and that is OK. God forgives us so we need to forgive ourselves and others as well. Don’t let your past haunt you and begin to control and dictate your future. Take a break — a permanent break — from guilt and the past and move forward into your future with joy and confidence.
6. Take a break from materialism.
Our society today is obsessed with material things. In my opinion, the lust for money in our country has gotten out of hand. I believe that instead of lusting for money, for high status, and for power, we should desire experience and adventure. We should be focusing on making memories, rather than making loads and loads of money. So instead of every waking thought being about making more money, about what clothes to wear, about what others think of us, let us focus on living in the present and making memories today that will last a lifetime. Every day and every person has some lesson to teach us and if we are too focused on materialistic things, we may miss these very important lessons, experiences, and people.
I am now heading off to take a break of my own. I hope you take these suggestions to heart and give them a try. And, while my list contains only six suggestions, I encourage you to think of more things that you would do you well to take a break from. Remove the toxic things from your life and watch your outlook and attitude shift. A little break can do you wonders.
