If you’re unhappy, you probably know it. So, what have you done to change it? Rather than taking a proactive approach much of us fall into self-pity, venting, and complaining. Sometimes it makes us feel a little better, but does in help? Not really. If you really want to make changes in your life then you need to start by developing daily practices and good habits.
Build Your Confidence Daily
What do you do when you get up in the morning? Do you get up, make yourself a cup of coffee then turn on the news? How do you feel after you watch a barrage of depressing and anxiety-inducing reports? Perhaps consider replacing your morning habit with something more positive. The News waited all night for you, so don’t worry, it can wait a little longer.
Try reading a chapter from an empowering book, something that will make you feel confident and unafraid to face your day. It can be a practical self-help book, beautiful inspirational quotes, or something out of your favorite spiritual material; it doesn’t matter so long as it makes you feel good. If you drive to work early, make it an audiobook. Your co-workers will notice as you light up the day with a smile and a positive attitude!
Let go of the Things out of Your Control
It’s pointless to worry about the things that are in the far distant future. The habit just stresses you out. Have you ever noticed that the future rarely turns out like you expect but generally it’s not so bad?
Instead of trying to control the things that you cannot, focus on measuring your smaller achievements. For example, if you’re a ballerina don’t focus all of your energies hoping you’ll someday star in a world renowned performance of “Swan Lake” try to notice the improvements you’re making each day in your routine and the efforts you’re making to be a part of other shows. You’ll feel happier and more motivated and you’ll actually be far more likely to achieve your dreams someday.
Reflect on Your Day
What do you do at the end of each day? Watch some TV, have a glass of wine, and go to sleep? Do you make every effort to forget about a stressful day? That’s understandable. In fact, it’s what most people do! But you may consider trying something a little different.
Good or bad, each day is an important learning and self-improvement tool. Each day carries with it things we are proud of, glad about, and things that we wish we could have done differently. At the end of each day, try considering your day objectively. Think about what you did well and about the mistakes you made. What changes would you make if you could?
View life as a learning experience and it’ll seem far less intimidating. Each day is a new opportunity to put the things we learn into action! If you allow yourself time to reflect daily, you may find that you have changed the way you approach problems. You may also find yourself feeling a good deal more satisfied with your life.
Don’t wait until tomorrow to start making your head a happier place to be in! The only person who can limit your happiness is you. Making simple changes in your life can have dramatic effects on your happiness and well-being. As you make them, you won’t just become a happier, better person; you’ll also attract more positive people and things in your life and positively affect the people around you. Who knows how many days you can brighten!
