8 Ways To Feel Happier Today
When you hear that phrase "life-changing" what do you think of?
I always equated this with new cars, bucket-list trips, financial abundance, physical appearance things, relationships etc.
And there's no denying that pretty much all of those things are in fact life-changing in some way.
But here's a pretty big lesson that I've learned along my own personal development journey & get to support my clients with today: (almost all) big life changes happen through small, sustainable steps.
Life-changing circumstances are also subjective...what might feel significant to me, might feel underwhelming to you.
Here's a quick story to help illustrate- about a month ago I was out shopping with my mom & sister on a trip to FL & stumbled upon this book in the most darling little plant shop…
A Book That Takes It's Time: An Unhurried Adventure In Creative Mindfulness (Flow).
As soon as I flipped through the pages- I knew I had to have it.
The book focuses on tiny ways to bring more mindfulness to your day and see more beauty in the world. Think breathing techniques, postcards to mail to friends, drawings of plants & their names. It's for all of us big kids.
I immediately started to incorporate reading a few pages into my morning routine- often cozying up to coffee, slow jazz music & flipping through several other favorite books to get me reflecting & inspired.
I look forward to this book every day. It grounds me while infusing creativity into my soul. I will be so sad when it's over and will most likely start from the very beginning ;)
It's such a tiny part (5ish minutes) that makes me feel happier & joyful moving through my week. So...yes. It's changed my life.
I want to invite you to reflect on what "life-changing" means to you. Where is the bar set? What's the expectation? Is there an opportunity to simplify and just take the next step?
This little exercise doesn't deflect from goals & ambitions- it creates a more joyful path to achieve them. Pretty freakin' cool right?
I'll leave you with one of my favorite parts of the book so far (I was actually thinking of you when I read this!):
How to be Happy with Yourself (by Otje Van Der Lelij)
Treat yourself the way you would a good friend. Would you be so hard on her if she had a bad day?
Do you give yourself a hard time? everyone has an inner critic; The Question is, should you listen to it?
Look in the mirror & give yourself a heartfelt compliment.
Stop comparing yourself to others. And if you really can't, let it inspire you instead.
Get enough sleep, eat healthfully, & spend time with people you like. Caring for yourself goes hand in hand with self-esteem.
Accept & enjoy the compliments you receive, & voice your sincere appreciation of others.
Fake it until you become it: sit up straight, put your shoulders back, & laugh with your whole face. A confident demeanor portrays self-confidence, even if you're not feeling it at the time.
Don't define yourself by your feelings. You are not your feelings; you merely have them.
P.S. If you’re ready for even more tools for feeling happier from the inside out, be sure to download my free Body Accpetance Starter Kit.
