I don’t know about you, but I sometimes forget that I am suppose to be happy. I get so caught up in the rat race, all the commitments I have that I just go into survival mode. Just get it done, just do what you have to do to get it done. I eventually am reminded by my exhaustion, or more often than not friends that I need to stop and breathe. To be mindful of the world around me, and to find my happiness again. Here are some tips I try to use to keep me on a more happy and productive path.
- Have a consistent Shut Down routine. Signal to your brain and body that it is time to stop working for the day. If you are at a desk or in an office do something physical like clean off your desk or tidy it and file your work away. It is important to have balance. People tend to be more happy and productive when they are able to have a clearly defined routine that allows them to completely separate from their work. It allows you to come back refreshed, and helps you to be more productive.
- Spend a weeknight or two with friends even if it’s just a few hours. Friends make you happier, and when you are happier you are more productive. It also breaks up what might seem like a long week.
- Try mastering a hobby or pastime. Do things you are good at, and try to get better at doing them. Often people come home and flop on the couch with the remote (nothing wrong with that), but as humans our brains are hardwired to be lazy. I love a good vegout myself, but if that is all we do then we are missing out on fun time that leads us to be fulfilled, happy and more productive.
- Have an hour of time before bed to wind downs. Turn off all man made devices. Bright screens, lights, TV’s etc trick your brain into thinking it’s still daytime. Try having a relaxing bath, or reading a good story.
- Do not go to sleep on your anger. Try where possible to work out any conflict you may have with friends, family and co-workers. Especially with your partner.
- Have a Gratitude journal. At the end of each day sit down and reflect on all the good things big or small that have happened that day. If you allow this to become a habit it will change you. It helped me tremendously.
- Have something to look forward too. A trip or event of some sort. Having something to look forward too makes us much happier.
Be happy my friends life is short.
Karen is a great listener and a solid shoulder to lean on. She has a degree in History and English and a diploma in Counselling Skills. She struggles with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Depression. She understands the importance of having someone to talk to about your struggles. She loves singing, researching her genealogy, cheering for her favorite hockey teams, swimming, hiking and spending time with friends.
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Defying Shadows 