Working in an office all day, I tend to go through periods where I'm feeling low-energy or simply not feeling like myself. I think we all do. I'll be honest- it's hard to make time to feel your best when you're spending that much time at a desk. Over the years, I've recognized some of the little things I can do throughout the day to feel truly satisfied and content when I go to sleep at night.
Here are 5 of my favorite ways to thrive everyday:
1. Sleep for 30 minutes more: I used to stay up late with my eyes fixated on the TV or computer screen and found that not only was I not sleeping enough, I wasn't sleeping well. Going to bed 30 minutes earlier can be a game changer, especially if you're taking steps to wind down beforehand. Try to shut your TV or electronics down an hour before bed and pick up a good book or magazine until you fall asleep. I guarantee you'll feel more rested in the AM! (1)
2. Experience art or nature: This can be especially hard when you're sitting at a desk all day. I find that, even if it's just 15 minutes, getting outside at some point during the day can shift my mood. Whether it's getting out for a run with my dog in the morning, taking a walk with a friend at lunchtime or heading down to the beach to watch the sunset after work, getting fresh air and sunlight are key if I want to feel my best. (2)
3. Set your top priorities: When successful people are asked about their habits, this is almost always one of them. Most successful people set their priorities for the day the night before, so they can start the day with a clear head and plan. I like to do this at the beginning of the week, dividing tasks by day based on their importance, and then revisit for a few minutes each morning to make sure priorities haven't changed. It makes me feel organized and helps me work more efficiently. (3)
4. Move your body: This one is a given! When you exercise, your brain releases endorphins, adrenaline, serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals all work together to make you feel good. You may not have an hour to spend at the gym everyday, but there are plenty of more convenient ways to move your body. I love these
high-intensity interval training workouts because they're quick and easy to do anywhere, but even a quick walk on your lunch break would do (and would help you accomplish #2!). (4)
5. Write down things you're grateful for: I'll be honest, I don't get around to doing this one all the time but when I do I definitely feel more calm throughout the day and experience a more positive outlook in general. I recommend doing this either right before you go to sleep or when you wake up in the morning. We all have things to be grateful for no matter what the circumstances and it always helps me to remind myself of that. What are your tips for thriving? Sam Swensen &
Suja Juice SOURCES: 1. Simon, Harvey. "Sleep Helps Learning, Memory - Harvard Health Blog." Harvard Health Blog RSS. February 15, 2012.
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/sleep-helps-learning-memory-201202154265. 2. Vartan, Starre. "Why Taking Breaks Is Good for Your Brain." Mother Nature Network. October 23, 2013.
https://www.mnn.com/money/green-workplace/blogs/why-taking-breaks-is-good-for-your-brain. 3. "10 Simple Steps to Help De-stress - Harvard Health." Harvard Health Blog RSS. 2015.
https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/10-simple-steps-to-help-destress. 4. Myers, Wyatt. "8 Ways to Stay Active All Day." EverydayHealth.com. 2015.
https://www.everydayhealth.com/fitness-pictures/ways-to-stay-active-all-day.aspx.
