Change has such a shroud of fear surrounding it, that many of us will avoid it like the plague. But change is necessary for growth. What if I told you that you could make ten simple changes that would completely change your life for the better?
It might sound too good to be true- but honestly, it’s not. Change is the catalyst for growth and goal achievement, and the only reason we fear it so much is that it isn’t something we are accustomed to. We tend to gravitate towards our comfort zone, but if you make even the slightest effort towards change, it will shift your comfort zone and make it easier for you to find an improved state of being.
What have you got to lose? Absolutely nothing. Try these ten simple things and I promise you will see improvement in your life.
1. Purchase a planner, bullet journal, or agenda.
Journaling and planning help us to manage our time better, set our intentions loud and clear to our mind (which controls our actions), and helps us to clarify our priorities. Start out simple by making a brain dump. This is basically where you get a piece of paper and write down bullet points of everything that is cluttering your mind. Then, delegate the tasks, plans, and intentions onto your daily schedule. This one tip alone is a total game changer!
2. Set a proper sleep schedule.
Skip the extra binge session on Netflix, and hit the hay a little earlier to ensure you get 7-9 hours as recommended by the National Sleep Foundation. When we don’t get enough, or get too much sleep, we end up sabotaging our mental health, brain function, and memory function. This is such a simple change that can make waves in your life!
3. If you are feeling stagnant or stuck- swap up your routine.
Everyone gets stuck sometimes, and while it may feel impossible to get out of the rut, making a few simple changes to your routine can make all the difference in the world. Try going somewhere new, learning something new, going on a walk, or anything that is outside of your typical routine.
4. Establish a morning routine if you don’t have one.
If your morning routine consists of you hitting the snooze button repeatedly, and then dragging yourself out of bed with just enough time to make it to work- it’s time for some changes. Try starting your day with a glass of water and then exercise. Water will hydrate you after a long night’s sleep, and exercise will get you motivated. It’s also helpful to limit screen time until you sit down for breakfast (which should be substantial and balanced.)
According to the University of Bristol, people who exercise have more energy and a more positive outlook- which are critical to getting things done.
5. Clear out clutter and get organized.
Organizing will give you a sense of control, thus reducing stress. Start simple, and tackle the areas that are bothering you most. Give everything a place, and then put everything in its place. Follow up and keep things clutter-free by decluttering on the regular. One simple organization hack is to designate functions and areas for functions in your house. For example, create a relaxation space, a space to cook/eat, a place to work, and a place to hobby. Then, put everything that belongs in that space for that purpose in a way that is simple to access and to utilize.
6. Swap entertainment content for learning and growth content.
Cat videos are all fine and good- but other than entertainment, what do they provide for you? Try balancing entertainment content with learning and growth content. Listen to people that motivate you and that encourage you to achieve your goals. You can still enjoy your cat videos- balance is key!
7. Walk at least 7,500 steps each day.
According to Harvard scientists, 7,500 steps each day decreases your risk for early and unexpected death by at least 40%. And regular movement reduces the risk of heart disease, type two diabetes, obesity, and many types of cancer. With that being said- not only does it provide various health benefits, it will also improve your mental health and make you feel good from the inside out. As a bonus- you don’t even have to walk vigorously- just make sure you aren’t sedentary and try slipping in extra steps wherever you can. 8. Cut back on bad habits.
Everyone has a bad habit or two or three. When you hear the term ‘bad habits’ what comes to mind? Those are likely the thing you should cut back on or eliminate. And the internet is flooded with helpful resources that can push you in the right direction if you need help on this journey. Do your research, cut back on the habits that are holding you back- and watch a whole new stage of life begin for you!
8. Build better habits.
Have you heard of mindful meditation, wanted to try it, but decided to wait till later? It’s never too late to start incorporating 1 good habit each week. Think meditation, a brisk walk, replacing excess alcohol with more water, and incorporating more healthy fruits and vegetables into your diet. These are all wonderful places to start.
9. Make a vision board.
Sit down and make a list of the areas of life most important to you. These can include, health, relationships, spirituality, career, etc. Then take a sheet of paper, poster board, or whatever you have and create a block for each one. Under each block, write down your vision, goals, and ideal situation for each area. Take your vision board and make a plan for achieving each goal, and slowly work towards them. Make sure they are achievable goals and give yourself a time limit for reaching them. Place the board somewhere you can see it throughout your day.
While this list likely won’t solve all of your problems, these ideas are a step in the right direction. At the very least, if you follow through with these ideas, you will find improvement in your life and begin working towards a better one. The best part is that they are all simple and easy things almost anyone can implement. And even if you only choose a few- you will reap the benefits.