LIFE LESSONS
“Life is really simple but we insist on making it complicated” Confucius
Each September I’m given a reminder to slow down. Last year I tripped on the pavement and fell, leaving me with the map of the world on my knee and cuts to challenge any six year old. This year my gift from September was an eye infection, but not just your regular eye infection! After the annoyance and injustice of a healthy living person like me getting an eye infection, I conceded to the fact that these things happen, submitted to slowing down and started working on cutting down my ‘to do’ list and simplifying my day. But, like most people, slowing down does not come easily to me!
Why do we thrive on over-complicating situations and endless lists of tasks. I love lists, they help me focus and it’s so satisfying to tick off a completed task on the list! But when the lists become the length of your arm they can do more harm than good to your anxiety levels.
WAYS TO SIMPLIFY YOUR DAY
Sometimes it's as simple as making one or two changes to your day to find that extra bit of space to breath. Have a read through these suggestions and see what you can easily apply to your day:
Take a moment to work out what you really need to do and what can comfortably be left for another day, or isn’t necessary at all.
Make a short ‘to do’ list for the day. Don’t be tempted to write a long list or you will feel like you have failed at the end of the day.
Build morning and bedtime routines to start and end the day with the comfort of familiarity
Learn to politely say ‘no’ to requests if you simply don’t have time, or it’s beyond the acceptable scope of helping others.
Monitor your time spent on Social Media. Keep your phone out of arms reach at mealtimes and try to stay off screens for at least 2 hours before bedtime.
Prioritise putting aside time for yourself each day, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
Look at simple tasks in life with fresh eyes and be present with even the simplest of chore.
Simplify your day and give space to be present!
Find what you need in simplicity and self care this September.
Ruth Delahunty Yogaru