Life can often feel overwhelming, marked by stress and ceaseless demands. Looking back, I realized that my own well-being didn’t improve through massive changes, but through a handful of small, consistent routines and tasks.
Here are seven simple shifts that dramatically increased my overall happiness and sense of calm. Pick one to try today, or commit to all of them—the most important thing is to start looking after yourself.
1. Adapt a “traveler’s mindset”
When feelings of loneliness or homesickness arise, take a moment to intentionally “go back in time” to your happy memories. Think about your most peaceful moment, and work to bring that foundational mindset and sense of calm with you here to UVA. Life often feels like a mountain, with inherent ups and downs. When you find yourself on a “down,” reflect on the “ups” and consider how you can adapt that positive energy or learning into your current situation. After a difficult test or a particularly hard day, I find it immensely helpful to recount my fondest memories. This practice of gratitude for the sweet moments in my life helps put any current struggle into perspective and reminds me of everything that makes the effort worth it.
2. Leave space in your calendar
Life is relentlessly busy, and it often feels like school and countless responsibilities consume every minute. That’s precisely why I challenge you to intentionally leave white space on your calendar just for yourself. It is incredibly helpful to carve out dedicated time to breathe, prioritize sleep, go for a walk, or simply enjoy your own company amidst the week’s craziness. You’ll be genuinely surprised by the profound impact this small, consistent act of self-care makes on your overall well-being and productivity.
3. Make the phone call
It’s easy to forget that your favorite people are often just a call away. Pick up the phone and connect with your best friend, your oldest friend, or someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. They will appreciate it more than you can imagine. Make room to learn from the people in your life, both far and near. Don’t forget your grandparents and parents—they love to hear from you too. This simple act can significantly help with any homesickness and contribute to feeling like yourself again. One call makes a huge difference in your happiness and I urge you to give it a try.
4. Delete the bad
It’s crucial to “delete the bad” from your life. We simply don’t have the time or energy to waste on unnecessary negativity. That toxic friend, or that bad habit—you don’t need them around. Delete them! Instead, focus on creating good, fulfilling habits. This is fundamental to your individual success and will significantly improve your overall happiness. By making positive changes, you’ll start to enjoy your life without constantly dreading the small stuff or being weighed down by negative people. Focus your energy on what uplifts you and helps you thrive.
5. Distribute the weight
Remember, you never have to do anything alone, and you are never truly alone. It’s okay to lean on others when the weight of the world feels like too much to carry on your own. Be your authentic self and distribute that burden. Trust those who care about you; they genuinely want to see you succeed and thrive. Don’t hesitate to ask for help and assistance with both the big tasks and the small ones. Reaching out removes any unnecessary heaviness you may feel. Allow the people in your life to support you. Distribute the weight.
6. Pay it forward!
The best way to help yourself is by helping others and the world around you. The world is full of opportunities for service. By performing acts of kindness, both big and small, the world becomes a better place day by day. Be a part of that change—a small piece of a greater good. There is no better feeling or fulfillment than becoming the person who helps others and practicing selflessness. Embrace service and experience the deep satisfaction of making a tangible difference. You’ll find that by focusing on uplifting the world, your own well-being dramatically improves.
7. Disconnect to reconnect
Phones are often obvious stressors, driven by the constant demands of social media, work, school, and life in general. To find true balance, you must deliberately disconnect from your device. This act is essential for reconnecting with yourself on a deeper, more meaningful level. Use that precious reclaimed time to immerse yourself in an activity you truly love—something totally screen-free and deeply personal. This time away from the constant noise of the cyber world allows your mind to rest and permits a true, lasting sense of peace. Give yourself this necessary permission to step back, breathe deeply, and fully reclaim that crucial inner calm and mental well-being.
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