TIPS REPORT 07: HOW TO LIGHTEN UP

 

This report includes powerful tips related to lightening up. It also includes 3 actionable steps you can take right away and a list of suggested reading for those people who are looking for even more information. ©

 This article is from a Series of 52 tips Report on the subject of self improvement. If you want to receive a file with all 52 Reports at once, you can subscribe to my e-mail list. 

TOP TIPS

If there has ever been a time that we all need to lighten up a bit - it might be now! Listen, I understand that life is a little crazy. Things aren't going swimmingly for a lot of us. It's easy to get down on ourselves. The thing is, if we aren't careful, we could lose the spark of happiness we do have. That's why it is important to lighten up a bit. We need to stop being so hard on ourselves while wallowing in negativity. Let's all take a deep breath, exhale and try to lighten up a bit. We can start with these nine tips:

 

1. Embrace the Concept of "Perfect Enough"

It feels great when something we are working on comes out just perfect, but it isn't the end of the world if it is just acceptable. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in making sure every detail is perfect, we don't take the time to enjoy the journey. You should take the time to appreciate the journey even if everything isn't perfect.

 

2. Avoid Toxic People

Certain people in our lives bring us down. We can't always avoid these people, but why wouldn't we limit our exposure to them? It's going to be very hard to lighten up if you spend a lot of time with people who sap your joy.

 

3. Find Healthy Ways to Release Tension

One of the best ways to lighten up is to release some of your built-up tension. Maybe you could get a massage. If that isn't your style, maybe you could blow off some steam working out. The choice is ultimately yours; make sure you engage in tension-relieving activities regularly.

 

4. Look at the Funny Side

Sometimes even the stressful events in our lives have a funny side. Learning to find this humorous side is a great way to lighten up. When you can laugh at yourself, you will find it easier to laugh in general.

 

5. Spend More Time Outdoors

A nice leisurely walk on a warm sunny day is one of the best ways to lift your spirits. No matter what's weighing on your mind, this time outdoors and in nature has a way of naturally lifting our mood and letting us lighten up a bit.

 

6. Act Like a Kid Again

Have you ever watched a kid playing and felt a pang of jealousy that they find so much joy in such simple activities? Why not join them? Act a little silly now and then. Don't be afraid to get dirty. Laugh at something stupid. You'll find taking yourself less seriously is one of the best ways to lighten up.

 

7. Spend Time with Fun People

We already know we shouldn't be spending a lot of time with toxic people. The inverse is true as well. We should try to spend more time with our fun friends. The friends that lift you and keep you smiling. It is easy to lighten up when you are having fun.

 

8. Help Someone in Need

This might seem like a weird suggestion, but hear me out. Helping someone in need will boost your mood in general. It is also a helpful reminder that everyone has problems, and maybe yours aren't that major in the grand scheme of things.

 

9. Stay in the Present

A major reason people can't lighten up is that they are reliving a bad memory or catastrophizing about some upcoming event. Strive to stay in the moment more often. Appreciate the here and now. If you get too caught up living in the past/future, you'll never lighten up.

 

ACTIONABLE STEPS

 

a) Who Stresses You Out? Is there anyone in your life that makes it impossible for you to lighten up around? Take some time to figure out how (or if) you can limit your time with them.

 

b) Spoil Yourself. Hey, life is tough, so take some time to pamper yourself. Whether it's a comforting meal, a night out, or a massage, put yourself first for once.

 

c) Reach out to a Fun Friend. If you have one of those friends that makes you laugh just by the way they answer the phone - reach out to them. Some time together will brighten both of your moods.

 

FURTHER READING

 

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TIPS REPORT 06: PRIORITIZE YOUR TASKS

 This report includes powerful tips related to prioritizing your tasks. It also includes 3 actionable steps you can take right away and a list of suggested reading for those people who are looking for even more information. ©

 This article is from a Series of 52 tips Report on the subject of self improvement. If you want to receive a file with all 52 Reports at once, you can subscribe to my e-mail list. 

TOP TIPS

The adage says, "We all have the same 24 hours a day". Yes, it's a cliche, and it likely more annoying than helpful - but it is true. We can't create more time out of thin air, but we can use it more effectively. That is why prioritizing your tasks is so important. Knowing what you should be working on and when you should be doing it will only increase your productivity. If you want to learn more about prioritizing your tasks, read these nine tips:

 

1. What is Worth Prioritizing?

First off, you need to figure out what is truly important to you. The tasks you prioritize should reflect your core values. If you are laser-focused on your career, then career tasks are naturally more important. If you are family-first, then you may rank those tasks higher in priority.

 

2. Make a List

A great way to start prioritizing is making a list of everything you want to accomplish. You can focus on the short-term, long-term, or even better - both. Don't worry about editing as you go; focus on thinking of as many goals/tasks/todos as you can.

 

3. Rank Your Priorities List by Urgency

Take the list of priorities you create and rank the tasks by urgency. This usually means ranking the tasks when they are due, but don't forget your core values. A typical way of breaking these lists up is three categories: Urgent (complete ASAP), Important (need to address soon, Leisure (can focus on these in your free time).

 

4. Break Your Large Tasks into Smaller Pieces

You should strive to break your large tasks down. This makes the task more manageable and lets you have more control over the moving parts. Some smaller parts of your large task might need to be completed earlier than others. It is easier to prioritize when you know this.

 

5. Delegate What You Can

Why waste time prioritizing the tasks you don't even need to do. Figure out if any of your tasks can be delegated or outsourced. This will save you time and energy. You can focus on the more important priorities while the smaller details are handled by someone else.

 

6. Set Deadlines for Each Task

Set some deadlines for each of your tasks. Simply setting a deadline has been shown to help people follow through. Try to set your deadlines a little earlier than you need. This will help you stay ahead of things and gives you a buffer if you can't deliver.

 

7. Look For Opportunities for Growth

An interesting, if a somewhat esoteric tip is to focus on tasks that grant you growth opportunities. We must continue to broaden our horizons and skillset, so focusing on tasks that help you do this makes sense. If all else is equal, but one task allows you to learn something new, or update your current skills, choose that one.

 

8. Start With Your Most Important Task

Another classic tip that you might have heard referred to as "eat the frog." The idea here is that you start with your most important task, that way you know you at least finished that. Some people choose their most hated task as well. The same idea applies, though; it's all about getting it over with ASAP.

 

9. ...or Don't

Contrary to the last tip, sometimes you are so unmotivated that you don't have the energy to tackle anything important. If that feels like you, then start with the absolute easiest, no-brainer task you can. Sometimes doing that is enough to build your momentum so you can tackle the high-priority stuff.

 

ACTIONABLE STEPS

 

a) Make A List of This Weeks Tasks - Think about your current week. What would you like to accomplish? List everything you can think of. Try to keep it reasonable, but don't be afraid to stretch yourself a bit.

 

b) Arrange the List by Importance - Now break that list down into three categories: Urgent (do ASAP), Important (do this week), and Leisure (whenever you get around to it).

 

c) Set Deadlines For Each Task - Now set a deadline for each task. Be specific; choose a day and time. Try to make your deadlines a bit earlier than needed, so you have some buffer room.

 

FURTHER READING

 

Affiliate links:

1. Manage Your Time, Manage Your Life

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2. Prioritization: How to Prioritize Tasks to Increase Productivity

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3. Time's Up: Prioritize Yourself Now

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4. Make Time: How to Focus on What Matters Every Day

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5. 18 Minutes: Find Your Focus and Get the Right Things Done

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TIPS REPORT 05: RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS

 This report includes powerful tips related to Random Acts Of Kindness. It also includes 3 actionable steps you can take right away and a list of suggested reading for those people who are looking for even more information. ©

 This article is from a Series of 52 tips Report on the subject of self improvement. If you want to receive a file with all 52 Reports at once, you can subscribe to my e-mail list.

TOP TIPS

Kindness isn't trendy. It isn't a hot button topic. It doesn't get as much press as happiness, passion, or determination. We think about it, but it's not something we strive to acquire. That is a pity because kindness doesn't just help the people around us; it helps us too. It is the proverbial no-brainer.

If you are interested in simple ways to invite kindness in your life, consider these nine random acts of kindness.

 

1. Give Someone A Genuine Compliment

This is a great habit to get into in general. Simply hand out more genuine compliments. This will boost your mood and might make someone else's day. It might feel awkward, to begin with, but it will become second nature eventually.

 

2. Buy the Person Behind You a Coffee

If you have the means, next time you are in the Drive-Thru, pay for the people behind you as well. This random act has a way of being passed on, or at the very least, talked about and shared.

 

3. Tell A Boss About a Good Employee

We live in a society where people seem all too willing to scream at retail workers. Instead of complaining about a bad job, why don't we mention good service more? Please make an effort to let a manager know when one of their staff does a great job.

 

4. Find a Charity You Believe In

If you have the means to make a charitable donation, your money will go a long way for someone less fortunate. The best way to connect with a charity is to do your research and find something that truly speaks to you.

 

5. Volunteer Somewhere

If you don't have extra money, do you have an extra hour? Volunteering your time can be just as effective as a charitable donation. Not only are you helping people in need, but you are also getting social interaction. You might even learn something new or meet someone interesting.

 

6. Help Someone Who Needs It

Is there someone in your life who needs a little help? Go ahead and offer them a hand. Reach out with a call or a text and ask if they need anything. Sometimes, that gesture alone makes a world of difference to somebody.

 

7. Offer to Help People Who Seem Lost

You ever see people while you are out who seem lost? Maybe they are looking at a map or their phone, pointing in different directions. Ask them if they need help finding something. Often people will be too shy to ask for help on their own.

 

8. Offer Workers a Drink

If you have some people working in your neighborhood, or even working at your place, offer them a drink. This is especially important on really hot days. You could play the hero with a well-timed delivery of ice-cold water.

 

9. Leave Positive Comments on Social Media

Social media can be a real cesspool. Everyone is trying to get a quick laugh by taking someone down. Other people post negative reviews of everything, Take a week, and only leave positive social media comments. See how you feel after that week. I bet you keep doing it!

 

ACTIONABLE STEPS

 

a) Leave a Loved One a Note - Whether your child, partner, or someone else, leave a little note of appreciation somewhere for them to find. A lunchbox is a great choice, but so is a random pocket in their clothes.

 

b) Check-In with a Loved One - Reach out to someone you haven't checked in within a while. If you are missing them, they are likely missing you. You might really make their day.

 

c) Help Someone Without Them Asking - Do something for someone you care about without being asked. Maybe take on a sibling's chores or check something off your partner's to-do list. It doesn't have to be big to be appreciated.

 

FURTHER READING

 

Affiliate links:

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TIPS REPORT 04: KICK-START A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

This report includes powerful tips related to Kick-Starting an Active Lifestyle. It also includes 3 actionable steps you can take right away and a list of suggested reading for those people who are looking for even more information. ©

 This article is from a Series of 52 tips Report on the subject of self improvement. If you want to receive a file with all 52 Reports at once, you can subscribe to my e-mail list.

 

TOP TIPS

No matter who you are, what you do, or your goals, a healthy lifestyle can only help. A foundation of good health is the perfect starting point for any endeavor. You will look better, feel better, and have more energy. The best way time to kick-start a healthy lifestyle was yesterday; the next best time is now. If you are ready to embrace a healthier lifestyle, these nine tips are a great way to get started.

1. Start Small

You don't always have to hit the ground running (not that there is anything wrong with that). If you are taking your first steps towards a healthy lifestyle, focus on small, simple steps you can use to build momentum. A lot of marathons started with a walk around the block.

2. Honor Your Personal Preference

Committing to a healthy lifestyle can take some work, so why make it harder by fighting yourself. Honor your preferences. Double down on the healthy foods you already like. Start doing more of that physical activity you already love.

3. Dress the Part

I don't mean you have to go out and get a brand-new gym outfit - but hey, if that would motivate you, go for it! This means that if you have an activity planned for the day, dress for it early. If you already have your running shoes on, you are far less likely to skip your run.

4. Find an Exercise Buddy

A good way to break up the doldrums of an exercise routine and add accountability at the same time is to find an exercise buddy. You will be less likely to miss out on your routine, and you will enjoy it more. It's a win-win.

5. 80/15/5

This is a simple ratio to help you with healthier eating. It isn't meant as a cure-all, but it is a good general guide. 80% of what you eat are healthy foods you already enjoy, 15% are foods you know are healthy but don't love, 5% eat whatever you want. You can tweak the numbers a bit to match your preference.

6. Start Each Morning with a Big Glass of Water

Yes, even before your coffee. This is a great way to get your day off to a great start. You will be well on the way to meeting your daily requirements. Don't stop in the morning though, most of us should be drinking much more water throughout the day.

7. Learn to Cook

It is so much easier to eat healthy on a budget when you can cook. You don't even have to be great at it. Just learn enough so that you can cook more meals more than you order. YouTube is a great place to learn, start by finding a video recipe of one of your favorite dishes.

8. Reward Yourself Without Sabotage

Make sure to reward yourself regularly. Some people may find this soft, but working towards a reward is just human nature. The key is to make sure you don't sabotage your progress. Taking a day off your routine is a reward. Taking a few weeks off is sabotage. A piece of cake is a reward. A whole cake is a sabotage.

9. Don't Let Setbacks Turn into Failure

You will hit stumbling blocks on your path towards a healthy lifestyle. Don't let that scare you, though. A setback is a great way to learn what doesn't work for you. Your results are going to come down to how well you bounce back from the inevitable setbacks.

ACTIONABLE STEPS

A) Think of Three Healthy Foods You Like

Find more ways to incorporate these foods into your daily diet.

B) Add More Activity to Your Day

What is a simple, non-exercise way to add more activity to your day. These are things like parking further away when shopping or walking for certain short errands.

C) Find an Exercise/Accountability Partner

Who is the perfect exercise or accountability partner in your life. Reach out to them to see if they are interested in joining forces.

FURTHER READING

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TIPS REPORT 03: A GOOD FRIEND

This report includes powerful tips related to the Traits of a Good Friend. It also includes 3 actionable steps you can take right away and a list of suggested reading for those people who are looking for even more information. ©

This article is from a Series of 52 tips Report on the subject of self improvement. If you want to receive a file with all 52 Reports at once, you can subscribe to my e-mail list.

TOP TIPS

Have you ever thought about what makes a really good friend? It might not seem like the most pressing issue, but knowing what traits make a good friend can have a profound impact on your life. It lets you know how you should act to be a better friend to the people in your life. At the same time, it teaches you what you should expect from the closest people in your life. If you are interested in knowing what makes a good friend, then please start with these essential traits all good friends should have:

1. They Have Your Back

A good friend is going to have your back through the good times and the bad. It's easy to be friends with someone when everything is good, but who will be there when you fall on bad times? The people that stick by you in those times are good friends.

2. They Are Available

A friend doesn't have to be available at all times for your every whim, but they should be available when you need them. We are all very busy with our own lives, but if you have a friend you love, you make at least some time for them.

3. They Listen

All good friendships need a little give and take. Good friends listen as much as they talk. They don't just focus on telling you all their problems. They actively listen to you as well. Listening and thoughtfully responding is a hallmark of a great friendship.

4. They Accept You As You Are

You are wonderful just the way you are. A good friend will recognize that. They will embrace your authentic self and not judge your personal decisions. As long as you aren't harming yourself, a good friend should support your choices.

5. They Are Fun to Be Around

A good friend doesn't have to be a non-stop party, but they should be fun to be around. You should look forward to seeing a good friend because you enjoy spending time with them. Of course, there will be sad events along the way, but you should be happy to be around your friends in general.

6. They Are Trustworthy

How can you be good friends with someone if you don't trust them? Without trust, there is no close friendship. You should feel equally comfortable sharing your secrets, or letting them housesit. A good friend will gain your trust and respect it.

7. They Tell Us the Truth

Honesty is important for any relationship in your life. A good friend is no different. They should respect you enough, to be honest with you. This might even mean they have to be brutally honest with you when needed.

8. They Are Kind

It is so much more enjoyable to spend time with kind people. You and your friends might get your snarky jokes off about things, but at the end of the day, they should treat you with kindness. Even better is if your friend is kind to everyone, that is a good sign they are a good friend in general.

9. They Build You Up

A good friend should build you up, not tear you down. You should feel confident and ready to take on the world with them at your side. If your friend is constantly nitpicking, doubting you, or otherwise being negative - they aren't a good friend, to begin with.

ACTIONABLE STEPS

A) Think About Your Current Friendships.

Are they fulfilling? Do any of your relationships throw up any red flags? Consider who you should be spending more or less time with.

B) Think About Yourself as a Friend.

Are you a good friend? Do you exhibit the traits of a good friend? What areas could you work on and improve?

C) Do Something Nice.

Think about one simple act you could take right now to benefit a close friend. Now go ahead and do it!

FURTHER READING

Affiliate links:

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2. Big Friendship: How We Keep Each Other Close

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MGameiro Digital Marketing (mgameiro1970.blogspot.com)