5 guaranteed ways to make your day better

Happiness is a way to travel not a destination and sometimes we need a compass

5 guaranteed ways to make your day better

It's all too easy to get stuck in a negative mindset. Life can be tough, some days it feels like everyone and everything is out to get you.

Take a pause. Take a deep breath. Take control.

A tiny change, being as kind to yourself as you are to others, can make all the difference in the world. Choose a small thing & smile.

1) Time with people who love you

Social interaction is important for our mental and physical health. It is especially important when things are getting to you, to be in the presence of someone who values you exactly the way you are. Love, laughter and validation are powerful tonics.

2) Get enough sleep

Most adults need around 8 hours of sleep per night. Not enough can affect your mood, energy levels, and ability to think clearly. Make your room a comfy safe haven without a telly. A regular and disciplined wakeup time especially if you get outside soon after waking, really helps make sleepy time regular too.

3) Eat rainbow food

There is growing evidence our gut biome has an impact on our mental health. Adding a wider array of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds to our diet, as well as incorporating probiotic-rich foods like sauerkraut and kefir, leads to better gut health & better moods.

4) Move your body

Exercise improves physical & mental health, aim for at least 30 mins of moderate intensity most days of the week. Make it easy to do and non negotiable to set yourself up for success. If you want a morning walk lay out your walking clothes before bedtime. If at any time you are feeling negative, step outside, breathe in deeply, notice your surroundings and move.

5) Have a geeky pleasure

Make time for activities that you enjoy, there is no such thing as a guilty pleasure. Anything that brings you joy is good. Computer gaming, jigsaws, colouring in, you name it, if it makes you smile then it is nothing to ever apologise for. Doing something you love can help you relax, de-stress, and improve your mood.

Happiness is a way to travel not a destination and sometimes we need a compass

These are just a few of the many small changes you could make to your lifestyle that can't fail to make your life better. Ken Mogi teaches us this in his 5 pillars of ikigai, that starting small, and finding the joy in the little things are crucial in the quest for ikigai - a reason for being.