It’s easy to get stuck in a rut, but it’s important to pull yourself out of it. It may seem like an insurmountable task, but doing these things will help you get back on the right track in no time.
- Step away from social media. This is probably the fastest way to feel better but it’s also the most difficult to actually implement. If you don’t need it to promote your career or your business, try taking a break from social media. You might realize you have no need for it whatsoever.
- Leave your phone behind. Having your phone on you at all can distract you from engaging with your surroundings, especially if you text a lot. If you feel panic setting in at the idea of being without it, that’s all the more reason to ditch it for a while.
- Spend as much time outside as possible. Maybe you don’t consider yourself “outdoorsy” and that’s fine. Even if you just take your work or your lunch outside, that’s a start. Spending time in fresh air and nature is incredibly good for your soul.
- Identify what brings you joy and do as much of it as possible. This sounds simple but those who live by it are surprisingly rare. Do you even know what your passions are? Sit down and examine your inner self. Then make sure you incorporate whatever makes you happy into your everyday life.
- Make eye contact and smile. It’s easy to shy away from basic human interactions with strangers, but you need to get your face out of your phone screen and connect with the world around you in the here and now. You’ll be surprised at how quickly that adds value to your day.
- Be kind as much as humanly possible. Just do it. Suck it up, be the bigger person, and spread cheer wherever you go. You’ll create happiness both for those you encounter and for yourself. You can make a difference, no matter how small it seems.
- Connect with people in a genuine way. It doesn’t matter if you know them or not. Take a little extra time to look into someone’s eyes, listen to them with complete attention, and answer with consideration. Everyone can tell the difference between sincere engagement and condescension.
- Work up a sweat. Exercise is paramount to keeping yourself physically fit, but it’s just as important for mental and emotional health. Make sure to work in some physical activity every day and you’re sure to notice an uptick in your mood and disposition. You’ll reap immediate benefits.
- Commit to a self-care routine. You really can’t be there for anyone else fully unless you’re taking care of yourself first. It’s not selfish, it’s necessary. If you’re feeling worn out and stretched thin, figure out a way to work some indulgent activities into your schedule.
- Laugh more. Laughter is an instant mood booster, but sometimes you have entire days where nothing is even remotely funny. Spend time around people who bring you joy! Lighten up and embrace your fun side again.
- Remember to appreciate what you have. Take a moment to step back and notice how you perceive your life. Are you appreciative or do you only recognize the bad? If it’s the latter, shifting your perspective will go a long way towards making you a happier and healthier human.
- Sit down and examine your priorities. Maybe you’re never satisfied no matter how much you have. Maybe you’re wrapped up in minutiae instead of focused on the big picture. Look at the way you’re handling life and have an honest conversation with yourself about how you want to proceed.
- Spread compassion. It may seem like a small gesture to you, but sometimes a bit of kindness can make another person’s entire day. Be someone who creates smiles wherever you go and your entire life will start to elevate. It’s a little bit of effort for a whole lot of payoff.
- Express your feelings. Life is too short to bottle everything up inside and make yourself sick. It’s not always easy to put your emotions out there, but it’s healthier and you’ll be better off for it. Try it and you will be surprised at how much happier you are.
- Do what you want more often. As adults, we often put our own needs aside to take care of work, family, friends, and whatever else is going on. That’s sometimes necessary, but you’re neglecting the most important person in your life: yourself. Change that behavior before you’re completely miserable.
- Try something completely new. Sometimes the best plan of action when you feel stuck is simply to get out of your comfort zone. It shakes everything else up when you’re newly engaged and motivated by something that’s foreign to you. It’s a great way to boost your confidence and spark your mind.
- Make choices based on love, not fear. You can only win with this perspective. If you’re always afraid of everything, you’re missing out on a whole lot of life. Don’t sell yourself short like that. Push through the initial hesitation and you’ll find that nothing is as bad as you think.
- Appreciate every single day. It’s something that most people forget to really do even if you know you should. Happiness is all about perspective, so put some concerted effort into brightening yours.