Okay, let’s be honest here. You’ve probably drifted a bit from your original resolutions. (I’ll be the first to admit this is me). I always go into January with high expectations…and then life happens, you know? I’m working on it. But it’s hard! And I don’t know if you’re in the same boat or not, but if you’re struggling to get yourself back on track, here are 5 small ways to help. (And the full list, which you can read here.)

1. Unfollow negative feeds.

You don’t realize how much negativity you’re absorbing until you purposely create distance between yourself and something (or someone) you read/interact with/spend time with/see etc. Creating intentional space allows for positivity to cultivate within you, and gives you room to explore your own thoughts and perspectives, without the opinions of others.

In simply unfollowing or removing toxicity from your day-to-day experience or social media feeds, you will be able to uplift and inspire yourself into more positive life changes.

2. Make a to-do list.

I’ll leave this open-ended so that you can create whatever list fits you best, but making a list will help you to be purposeful. Maybe this is a list of cleaning tasks you have to do around the house, work related activities, personal goals, etc. Just make sure to write them down. This will not only give yourself the satisfaction of crossing each item off as you go, but will make sure you actually remember and achieve them.

3. Change every negative comment into a positive one.

If you’re about to criticize your reflection, instead find one attribute that you like or are proud of. If you’re about to speak negatively about a coworker, say something that you appreciate about them. If you’re thinking something defeating, remind yourself of how far you’ve come.

This may be hard at first, but it’s incredibly rewarding. In changing the way you think and speak, you’ll unconsciously shift what’s happening to, and around you, to reflect that.

4. Instead of speaking in anger, write.

So maybe you had a big fight with your significant other, maybe you’re peeved at your boss’ new decision, maybe you’re just having a crap day. Whatever you’re going through, I encourage you to write instead of speak.

Sometimes when we’re mad we just blurt out whatever we’re feeling—and this can damage relationships, hurt us professionally, or create tension that we don’t want to have.

So instead of just word vomiting, take your frustration and articulate it in a letter. Write directly to your boss, your friend, your husband/wife, even yourself! Getting the words out there will help you release and perhaps even begin to heal.

You don’t have to give the person the letter (and frankly, I’d advise you not to!) but the act of letting those emotions be felt and expressed is crucial. Later, you can go back and rewrite the letter or address your anger in a more healthy way (if you really want to send it).

5. Unsubscribe to unnecessary emails.

I don’t know about you, but when I see more than 50 emails in my inbox I get overwhelmed. And granted, I don’t get that many emails…but still. It’s a lot.

A cluttered inbox can add unneeded stress to your life. So, when you have a spare moment, sift through and unsubscribe to things that you don’t care about, don’t need, or don’t find yourself even remotely interested in. This will significantly lessen your email load and make your work day feel more manageable.

 
Want to see all 11 ways? Read THIS.

Featured Image Credit: Swaraj Tiwari