When was the last time you did something just for yourself? We all have established a day to day routine that is focused on the “have to’s” of our life such as, cooking, cleaning, and working. To break free from a mundane existence, we have compiled a list of activities that can efficiently be incorporated in our daily routine.
Many people complain about the elusive nature of time. However, is time really the problem or is it the way we pack our day with unfulfilling activities? By creating a dull lackluster life, we are doing ourselves a massive unjust. Hence, we have explained one rewarding activity to partake in each day. It will create small, but in the long-term profound changes in your life.
Therapeutic Journaling
Do you often find yourself with slump shoulders and a mind bogged down with baggage? If so, you are in a dire need of self-introspection. I find that jotting down one’s own feelings, experiences and thoughts can give us a deeper understanding of our sense of self. For instance, who we are and what areas we can improve in during the week.
Begin your week with a clear mindset — dedicate 10-30 minutes to reflect on your previous week. You can do this first thing in the morning or at night before going to bed. One way to ensure that you are taking in to consideration both, your body and mind is to create categories. The categories can include: give yourself credit, gratitude box, areas to conquer, and what is my body telling me?
If writing reminds you of the torturous university/collage papers— begin with writing bullet points. Use the following prompts to start and track your self-development journey:
Three things you love about yourself and three habits that you want to change/improve.
Things you are grateful for…
Things that you want to try…
How are you feeling?
What is one thing that you are proud of?
What is happening with your body? — bodily aches and feeling tired, etc.
Day 2: Make Conscious Decisions
This one is on the simpler end. It involves making deliberate decisions that will establish long-term healthy habits. It is recommended to pick one or two things to avoid being overwhelmed.
Here is a list of some effortless and simple practices that will enhance your mind and body:
Drink eight glasses of water.
Plan out your day the night before or first thing in the morning.
Recite positive affirmation, preferably in the morning.
Apply sunscreen daily.
Observe, listen, understand, and then react
Find healthy alternatives for your unhealthy choices.
Day 3: Create an Annual Vision Board
We all envision about how we like to see our future pan out. However, there is a bridge to be crossed from visualising and living out the envisage future. The first step is to create an annual vision board, which is a visual representation of everything you want to see in your future lie making new friends, picking a university/collage, moving to a new city, etc.
Follow these steps to create a collage of clarity, a vision board:
Find images that represent your annual aspirations. I used Pinterest.
Pick a program to organize your images such as, Pages, Microsoft Word, or Canva.
Stick your design on a canvas such as, a corkboard. I printed my design out and framed it.
Place the vision board where you can see it. I hang mine in front of my work desk.
Now that you have your vision captured in a board, the second step is implementation. Each week you will make small efforts that will take you one step closer to achieving your goals.
For more detailed example on how to create a vision board: https://bit.ly/30xYP02
Day 4: Au Revoir Responsibilities
A day allocated to evading responsibilities at least for 45 minutes. The purpose is to relax, away from the chaotic world that exists outside the bathroom doors.
Give yourself some TLC by following these steps:
Step over to the bathtub, turn on the faucet, and let the warm water reach the rim of the tub.
Apply a face mask to improve your skin health such as, a hydrating mask for a dehydrated skin.
To create a pleasant soothing ambience, light a scented candle.
Drop a bath bomb or pour a generous amount of bubble bath, coupled with a few drops of essential oil in the tub.
Turn on the ambient music or listen to a motivational speaker.
Time to soak yourself in the bathtub.
Now, some individuals might find this too boujee or not their cup of tea. Alternatively, schedule a mani & pedi appointment, indulge in some shopping, buy yourself a bouquet and munch on some delicious food.
Day 5: Strolling Away From the Digital World
A study shows that on average we spend 144 minutes, or two hours and twenty-four minutes, on social media. A surprising result, isn’t it? This can be mentally and physically exhausting! Hence, do yourself a favour and look out the window. You will see a whole new world waiting to be experienced in physicality not behind screen.
Place your phone in your pocket and don on your gym attire. We are about to go for a stroll around the neighbourhood for 30 minutes. On one side, you might find children kicking around a worn out soccer ball. On the other side, you might find blossoming flowers. You are encouraged to pause your walking to partake in kicking the ball and sniffing the flowers. Don’t forget to breath in fresh air and be in the moment. By engaging all your senses, you will feel refreshed, happy, and rejuvenated.
Day 6: Revisiting a Hobby
Happiness does not require grand gestures. You can even find it hidden in your room waiting to be pursued. Day 6 is about reviving activities that used to get you all eager and excited. Hobbies that have been replaced by responsibilities. In the good ol’ days, you might have loved painting, gaming or reading, etc. Why not allocate at least one hour to reignite this passion? And revitalise your life with enthusiasm and positive energy. It can also be just turning the pages of a photo album. Yes, tangible photo albums still do exist!
Day 7: Have a Solo Dance Party
Many might dodge the dancing train with the excuse of being a non-dancer. Is that excuse acceptable? Dancing is a movement of body. So, whether you are a pro with groovy moves or you dance like a lamppost, you are a dancer.
It is time to treat yo’self to the best 15-30 minutes of your day. Here is the dance party checklist, the favourite edition:
Don on your favourite outfit
Apply your favourite makeup look
Spray on your favourite perfume
Play your favourite music that makes you sway and gets you moving
The main ingredient of Self-Love is you. Your efforts will significantly enhance your wellbeing. It will spark joy in your life. As well, you will have something to look forward too.
