We are well into this semester, and maybe in the midst of late nights studying, seemingly endless shifts at work and the inevitable issues that tend to arise in personal lives, you’ve found yourself in a rut. You are basically Squidward continuously going through the motions of everyday mundane activities while his smile slowly starts to fade. Depressing, I know. Really though, that might be how life feels. It happens, and it’s okay to feel a bit tired or sick of the routine you’re stuck in. Though some are a bit more grand and serious than others, there are numerous ways to change your life and routine to aid in creating a life more happy, conscientious and inspiring.
- Plan and Prioritize Time for You
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I can already hear the excuses of, “but there’s no time.” And to that I say, “But there is.” Taking the time to properly plan out your days and establishing time-frames for this will help you to make space for yourself. Some may shy away from this because tuning out the rustle and bustle of a hectic life can make us feel lonely and vulnerable. Some days it might be that way, but it’s imperative to give your mind and body a break from stress. This precious, well-deserved time can be filled with whatever you want! Go for a walk and listen to your favorite podcast, take a bath, binge-watch “Big Mouth,” paint, write or whatever else. If it’s something you find relaxing and pleasing, make time for it.
- Marie Kondo the Sh!t Out of Your Life
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Simple ways:
Shed everything that no longer brings you joy. This will take some time, but once you get rid your environment of clutter, life will feel lighter. Go through your belongings and get rid of things you don’t use, things you’ve outgrown or things you simply no longer like. Organize your space and incorporate more items, colors and styles that are pleasing to you. This sounds very simple, and that’s because it is. But when our environments are tidy, clean and aesthetically pleasing, it’s easier for us to feel more calm and collected. If you’re an avid social media user like me, Marie Kondo the content you’re putting into your brain. Tune into your feelings and thoughts while scrolling through your feeds and notice what kind of messages and posts seem to make you feel more inspired and happy. Incorporating informational, encouraging content and inviting surroundings thus creates a more purposeful life.
Big ways:
Also pay close attention to the accounts that make you feel unworthy, upset or drained. The same can be said for the people in your life. However, this isn’t an episode of “Black Mirror,” so we can’t simply block or unfollow people in reality. Don’t anticipate this to be pleasant or easy. Introspecting and noticing how others treat us and make us feel can help us weed out people who deplete us of our precious time, attention and energy. Reaching out and keeping those who’re uplifting and genuine close is just as important as setting boundaries and saying “no” to those who don’t.
- Wellness in All Aspects
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Don’t you worry, I don’t subscribe to the bullsh!t that is diet culture, so I’m not here to tell you to drink juice made of celery. Believe it or not, you can get all the nutrients your body needs while still eating food that is delicious and satisfying. Trust me, I understand that nothing is more annoying that being told to work out, but hear me out. Exercise doesn’t have to be lifting weights or running. It can be dancing, yoga, strolls in the park, biking with friends or even rock climbing. There’s a wide variety of physical activities out there. I do think it’s important to note that you should listen to your body. If you’re sick, exhausted or really, really not feeling the whole moving thing, then don’t. Letting your body rest and replenish is just as important. Take care of your hygiene (straight men that includes you, too). Skin care, flossing, conditioning your hair, moisturizing — do it all.
Sure, no amount of face masks, yoga classes or cleaning out your closet will stop life from happening. However, having a routine that’s enjoyable, having friends that are supportive and parts of life that are healthy and beneficial to your overall well-being will better aid you to working through those ruts and rough patches.