It’s easy to get lost in everyday chaos, most of which we build around ourselves because of a lack of our conscious control over life. It’s important to remember that life is short and living it to the full potential means to make every day count.
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Simplicity To Make Every Day Non-Mundane
Let’s be honest, when a life enthusiast from our circle gives us unsolicited advice to make each day count because life is too short, the first thought that comes to mind is ‘boy we don’t have time or money to waste on such mundane philosophies’.
Everyone cannot afford to leave everything behind and go on a round trip to make every day count or take risks of losing a well-paying stable job to pursue a passion. It all sounds like a rich person’s hobby that we simply cannot afford to take part in.
But that’s not what making each day count means. It’s about doing the simple things to make your day better.
Finding the joy in the little moments and blessings of the present and taking out time every day to be grateful for what you received and also plan to manifest what you want.
You want to live happily? Rid yourselves of the self-made complications around you and start living the life of simplicity where you take each moment and every day at a time. Follow this 30-day minimalist challenge to live a simpler, fuller life → How To Simplify Your Life In 30 Days.
Make Every Day Count – Quotes To Inspire
Living life in a certain way to make each day count requires consistency, which is not as simple as it might sound. But here are some of my favorite ‘make each day count quotes’ that help me through my low moments. I’ll share them here to spread some motivation: (1)
- “It’s so free-ing when you can fit things into your life, rather than fitting your life around your chores” – Chrissy Halton
- “Do something today that your future self will thank you for” – Unknown
First, Prepare An Action Plan
Set your goals and priorities straight. When you’ll know what you want from life and what are your short and long-term goals, it will be much easier for you to make every day count by making the most of it. (2)
Write down the list of your goals on a sticky note and place it where you can encounter it at the start of each day, like in your refrigerator. Every day while brewing your morning coffee, you will get a reminder to work towards your goals and ask yourself, “what should I do today to bring me closer to my dream?”
This is the holy grail method to follow your dream with consistency and motivation. Try it once and you might find yourself thanking me a few months later. Now let’s move on to 21 simple things to make your day better and brighter.
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21 Simple Things To Do To Make Every Day Count
1. Spend One Hour Being Playful
It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind of every day. However, taking time to play is crucial for our mental and emotional health. Devoting just one hour a day two playful activities can significantly boost your happiness and satisfaction.
Play isn’t just for children; it’s essential for adults too. Engaging in playful activities can reduce stress, enhance creativity, and improve problem-solving skills. Whether it’s dancing, playing a board game, or enjoying nature, there are countless ways to incorporate play into your life.
So, the next time you feel overwhelmed, take a break and engage in a playful activity. You’ll be surprised at how quickly your mood can improve.
2. Learn Something New Even If It’s Just A Word
A simple yet powerful way to make each day count is to learn something new. Even if it’s just a single word, a new fact, or a skill, the act of expanding your knowledge can significantly enrich your life.
When you learn something new, you’re not only acquiring information but also stimulating your brain and fostering a sense of curiosity.
Learning can be as simple as reading a book, watching a documentary, or engaging in a conversation with someone who has different perspectives. You can also take online courses, attend workshops, or even explore hobbies that require you to acquire new skills. The possibilities are endless.
3. Declutter Your Workspace
Start by removing any unnecessary items from your workspace. This might include papers, files, gadgets, or belongings that don’t serve a practical purpose. Once you’ve cleared the clutter, organize the remaining items in a way that makes sense to you. Use storage solutions like shelves, drawers, or baskets to keep everything tidy and easily accessible.
A clean and organized workspace can also help to reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. When your surroundings are clutter-free, you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed or anxious. So, take some time to declutter your workspace and experience the positive benefits for yourself.
4. Do Not Bring Your Office Home
The lines between work and personal life get easily blurred for me and I find it the biggest obstacle towards my progress. Bringing your office home can have detrimental effects on your mental health, relationships, and overall well-being, and it’s not a myth. It’s essential to establish clear boundaries and create a healthy work-life balance.
When you constantly check your work emails or engage in work-related tasks at home, it can lead to stress, burnout, and an inability to fully relax. It’s important to create a dedicated workspace and set specific hours for work. This will help you mentally switch off and enjoy your personal time.
5. Binge Watching Is Not Self-Care
While it’s tempting to unwind with a marathon TV session, binge-watching alone isn’t a true form of self-care. While it can provide temporary relaxation, it doesn’t address underlying issues or promote long-term well-being.
True self-care involves activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. This might include spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness, engaging in hobbies, or simply doing nothing at all. It’s about finding activities that bring you joy, reduce stress, and help you feel connected to yourself.
6. Talk To A Friend With Pick-Me-Up Energy
Connecting with a positive friend can significantly improve your mood and outlook. Sharing thoughts and experiences with someone who lifts your spirits can alleviate stress and reduce loneliness. Talking to such a positive friend can help you see the world in a more optimistic light.
The next time you’re feeling down, reach out to a friend who has a knack for making you smile. A brief conversation can turn into a long nighter and such friendships go a long way in making each day memorable.
7. Save A Little Everyday
This seemingly insignificant act can accumulate into a substantial sum over time, providing financial security and peace of mind. Have you heard about the power of compounding interest? Even small amounts saved consistently can grow exponentially over the years.
Consider the example of a person who saves just $10 a day. Over the course of 30 years, with a modest interest rate of 5%, this person would accumulate nearly $200,000. This illustrates the incredible potential of saving a little every day.
Beyond financial benefits, saving can also foster discipline, self-control, and a sense of accomplishment. It teaches us to prioritize our future selves and make informed decisions about our finances.
8. Make Your Bed Every Morning
Making your bed, a seemingly trivial task, can significantly influence your day. It’s a small win that can boost your confidence and motivation. By starting your day with a completed task, you signal to your brain that you can achieve more.
Beyond its motivational benefits, a well-made bed contributes to a more organised and peaceful bedroom, promoting better sleep. So, make your bed each morning; it’s a small act with a big payoff. You can develop other healthy morning habits following 15 Morning Routine Checklist That Will Change Your Life and increase productivity.
9. Overcome One Fear Or Maybe Just Try
Conquering fears is a powerful way to unlock your full potential and live a more fulfilling life. By facing your fears head-on, you can break free from limitations and embrace new opportunities.
Overcoming fears can be a gradual process. Start by identifying one fear that’s holding you back. It could be fear of public speaking, rejection, failure, or something else entirely. Once you’ve identified your fear, break it down into smaller, more manageable steps. This will make it less overwhelming and more achievable.
It’s about learning to manage your fear, which might lead to the complete elimination.
10. Let Go Of One Bad Memory
Holding onto negative memories can weigh us down and prevent us from. Letting go of a bad memory doesn’t mean forgetting it entirely. It’s about acknowledging the memory without allowing it to control our emotions and actions.
We can choose to reframe the memory, focusing on the lessons learned rather than the pain experienced. This can help us gain perspective and move on.
Focus on the present moment and build a brighter future by letting go of disappointing memories. This can lead to improved mental and emotional health.
11. Eat Mindfully
Mindful eating isn’t just about consuming food; it’s about appreciating it. Paying attention to your food can improve your relationship with eating, digestion, and stress. Mindful eating helps you avoid overeating and impulsive choices, as you’re more connected to your body’s hunger and fullness cues.
To practice mindful eating, find a quiet place, focus on your food’s appearance, smell, and taste, take small bites, and chew slowly. Pay attention to your body’s sensations and stop eating when you’re comfortably full. Here are 15 Ways to Incorporate Mindful Activities into Your Everyday Life that you wouldn’t want to miss.
12. Do Light Exercise
Even small amounts of physical activity can boost your mood, improve your energy levels, and enhance your cognitive function. Light exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous or time-consuming. Activities like walking, swimming, cycling, or simply stretching can provide numerous benefits.
Regular physical activity can help reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and lower your risk of chronic diseases. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity most days of the week. You can break this up into shorter sessions if it fits better into your schedule. The most important thing is to find an activity that you enjoy and stick with it.
13. Take A Hot Shower
A hot shower is often seen as a mundane daily task, but it can actually be a powerful tool for relaxation and rejuvenation. The warmth of the water can help to soothe tense muscles and improve circulation. For added relaxation, consider using a scented soap or bath bomb.
Taking a hot shower can also have benefits for your skin. The heat can help to open pores and remove dirt and impurities. Additionally, the steam from a hot shower can help to hydrate your skin and soften rough patches.
14. Accept One Change In Your Life
Change is an inevitable part of life. While it can sometimes be daunting, embracing change can lead to personal growth and increased resilience. Whether it’s trying a new hobby, starting a new project, or making a lifestyle change, embracing change can help you to develop new skills and increase your sense of purpose.
Change doesn’t have to be drastic. Even small changes can have a significant impact on your life. The key is to approach change with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow.
15. Commit To Quitting One Bad Habit
Whether it’s smoking, excessive drinking, unhealthy eating, or procrastination, breaking free from a multitude of harmful behaviors can have a significant impact on your physical and mental health.
The journey to quitting a bad habit can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Start by identifying the triggers that contribute to your bad habit. Once you understand what sets you off, you can develop strategies to avoid these triggers or cope with them in a healthy way. Additionally, build a strong support system to help you stay on track.
16. Go To Bed At A Reasonable Hour
Adequate sleep can improve your mood and boost your energy levels, enhancing cognitive functions, and strengthening your immune system. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule can help regulate your body’s internal clock and improve sleep quality. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends.
Avoid stimulating activities like screen time before bed, as the blue light emitted from electronic devices can interfere with sleep. Instead, opt for calming activities such as reading, taking a warm bath, or practising relaxation techniques. Follow my 16 Self Care Night Ideas [Night Routine For Relaxation And Sleep] for a rejuvenating experience.
17. Be An Early Bird
When you wake up early, you’ll have more time to complete tasks without feeling rushed. This can reduce stress and increase your sense of accomplishment. Additionally, early mornings offer a quiet and peaceful time for reflection, meditation, or exercise.
To become an early riser, start by setting a consistent bedtime. Gradually shift your wake-up time earlier, giving your body time to adjust. Create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you wind down and prepare for sleep. With a little effort, you can establish the habit of waking up early and reaping the many benefits it offers.
18. Make Your Everyday List Before Going To Bed
Creating a daily to-do list before going to bed can be a simple yet effective way to improve your productivity, reduce stress, and achieve your goals. When you create your to-do list, be specific and realistic about what you can accomplish in a day. Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.
Additionally, consider using a productivity app or planner to help you organise your tasks and track your progress. There are many options available to suit different preferences and needs. By making a daily to-do list, you can take control of your day and set yourself up for success.
19. Challenge Negative Self-Talk
Become aware of your negative thoughts. Pay attention to the messages you’re telling yourself and identify the patterns that emerge. Once you’ve recognized these negative thoughts, challenge them by asking yourself if they are truly accurate or helpful.
Replace negative thoughts with more positive and affirming statements. Instead of telling yourself, “I can’t do this,” try saying, “I can figure this out.” Practice positive affirmations regularly to reinforce a more optimistic outlook.
20. Drink A Protein Smoothie
A protein smoothie is a convenient and nutritious way to start your day. Packed with essential nutrients, protein smoothies are versatile and can be customized to suit your individual taste preferences and dietary needs.
You can add a variety of ingredients, including protein powder, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats. When making a protein smoothie, be sure to choose high-quality ingredients. Opt for plant-based protein powders that are free from artificial additives and sweeteners.
21. Reflect Upon Your Day In Solitude
This practice can help you to identify areas where you can improve, cultivate gratitude, and develop a deeper understanding of yourself. Regular self-reflection can help you to become more resilient and content. Develop a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment in your life by taking time to connect with yourself.
To practice daily reflection, find a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed. Take a few deep breaths and allow your mind to wander. Think about the events of your day, the emotions you experienced, and the lessons you learned. Consider what went well, what didn’t, and what you might do differently in the future.
Take It One Day At A Time
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the advice to make every day count. Don’t let this pressure lead to stress over small things, like traffic jams or the noise from a nearby playground. (3)
Sure, making each day count requires some effort, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take a lazy day off and stay in all day. Acknowledging your feelings is a part of the process and if you feel like today, you want your day to be counted as a lazy sleep-in day, go for it, my friend!
But always get back up the next day, drag yourself out of that bed, and remind yourself of this golden legacy of James Clear, “Where you spend your attention is where you spend your life.” And you don’t want it to be in bed. (1)
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