Gleb Leonov / Strelka Institute / Flickr
I think we are all open to making changes in our lives that make us happier and more successful, but few of us follow-through because committing to something that’s going to change our lives is a daunting and massive undertaking, right?
Not necessarily.
Instead of focusing on huge, radical steps, start moving forward by incorporating these eight changes that are so small and simple that you can implement them immediately.
These eight steps can drastically change your life for the better.
1. Reprogram your mind to stay positive
Gleb Leonov/Strelka Institute for Media and Design/Flickr
Our thoughts and actions are influenced by our feelings. That’s why when you’re just feeling “blah” because the weather is crummy or you had a stressful week all you want to do is stay in bed.
Here’s the problem. Negativity is all around us. There’s nothing we can do about that, either, but what can do is learn how to reprogram our minds to stay positive. You can’t trap every negative thought in the happy-clappy end zone of your mind, but can take charge of your thoughts by:
1. Keeping a gratitude journal. Jot down what you’re thankful for every day instead of worrying what you don’t have. Gratitude will make you happier, increase your productivity and help you sleep better at night.
2. Creating and repeating positive affirmations that acknowledge the progress your are making in the areas where you want to improve.
3. Surrounding yourself with positive people who lift your spirits. Remember, emotions are contagious.
4. Don’t acknowledge negative thoughts.
5. Staying active. Exercise releases endorphins but idleness leads to over-analyzing and overthinking.
Related: A Little Gratitude Can Go a Long Way
2. Set your alarm half an hour earlier
Phalinn Ooi/flickr
One traits many successful individuals have in common is they get up early. While you don’t have to wake up at the ungodly hour of 3:45 a.m. like Apple’s Tim Cook, you could start setting your early half an hour earlier. So, if you normally set your alarm for 7 a.m., set it for 6:30 a.m.
The reason?
This will give you some extra time in the morning to exercise, meditate, read, check your emails, have breakfast with your family, plan your day, or work on something that you’re passionate about.
It saves you from rushing out the door each morning feeling forgetful, unaccomplished and discombobulated. Time tracking is key to self-improvement.
Related: Sleep In and Make Millions: Why You Don’t Need to Wake Up at 5 a.m.
3. Clean up after yourself immediately
peapod labs/Flickr
How long does it really take to make your bed or wash your morning dishes? Maybe five minutes? Here’s the thing. If you don’t stay on top of these minor chores, they quickly build-up. That cereal bowl and coffee mug becomes a sink full smelly dishes that take a lot of time to clean. If washed immediately, you wouldn’t have this headache.
What’s more, people who immediately clean-up after themselves, like making their beds every morning, tend to be happier, as well as more successful since it makes you feel accomplished, removes clutter, and gives them a sense of control.
Related: 11 Habits of Truly Happy People
See the rest of the story at Business Insider
