In today's modern, global world, we are surrounded by immediate news, the rise in social media platforms, and instant gratification. With the rise in popularity of these technological advancements, the world as we know it is constantly developing and evolving. To combat the superficiality and shallowness that these advancements may bring, here are 5 tips to remain intentional and purposeful in your daily life, even when you're stressed.
1. Put the phone down.
Taking a week, a month, or even just a day, away from the constant use of technology can be extremely beneficial in many ways. The onslaught of picture- perfect lives portrayed on social media platforms, like Instagram, and constant updates on friend's and relatives beautiful vacations, impressive internships and personal or professional success can be overwhelming when it's constantly flooding your timeline, and can be detrimental to your view of self, mental health, and overall personal well-being. Having certain times each day, or regular periods of time during which you disconnect and remove the stimulus that causes constant comparisons and sensory overload can reinforce more positive traits, like confidence, contentedness with self, and general happiness.
2. Snail mail.
Stop tweeting, posting, or commenting, and write a letter. Instead of writing "omg miss you!" on a friend's Instagram post, try handwriting a note and sending it the old fashioned way. Yes, this has decreased in popularity due to the advent of instant messaging and communication, but nothing is as personal and heartfelt as receiving (or sending) a letter in the mail. I try to do this often, and I love getting mail in return; it feels much more genuine and intentional than a text or email (although checking in regularly with friends is always appreciated, regardless of the form.)
3. Face to face interaction.
Grab a meal with a friend, join a club, talk to strangers (safely, of course), and spread positivity when possible. Interact with others, share kindness, make new friends. Doing these things will not only make you happier as a person, but may help you in making lasting, purposeful connections and might even make someone's day. You never know what the other party may be going through, so be a friend to all you meet, and be intentional in your actions and how you treat others.
4. Take a breather.
Taking care of yourself is important. Whether this be mental, physical, or emotional care, it is important to realize that you need love too. In order to be an intentional friend, family member, or student, you must take care of yourself; how can you be there for others if you can't be there for yourself? Eat healthily (but don't forget to treat yourself when needed), be active, get outside and enjoy fresh air, take time for activities that fulfill you, and focus on the positive. Go on an adventure. Enjoy good company, good coffee, and good memories- while college is stressful and it's important to work hard, you must be conscientious in your efforts to take care of yourself, or you will be unable to truly add quality interactions and input to whatever situation you may be in.
5. Get to know yourself.
This is vital. Discover what makes you happy, what fulfills you, and pursue it. Understand your beliefs, and why they matter to you. Listen to your heart, don't let fear stop you from pursuing your dreams, and follow the path that makes you the happiest. Try a new hobby (I, for one, have started embroidering, and I love it), practice a new recipe, experiment with a new type of workout, study what matters to you. Be sedulous in your efforts to discover who you are at your core, and what matters the most to you. Having an authentic and in-depth sense of self lends a multidimensional hand to living a quality and intentional life, and can be the key to navigating wherever life may take you.
