Living In Gratitude: Make the Most of Every Day

As we get caught up in the tasks, responsibilities and stress of life, we can fall into a pattern of ‘just getting by’, letting our days blend together rather than making the most of them.

By embracing an outlook of living intentionally, we actively participate in life. We purposefully seek to add enjoyment, accomplishment, awareness and appreciation in every day rather than ‘surviving’ until the weekend.

Below are 10 tips to making the most of each and every day.

1. Start your day early

Those who rise early tend to be more productive, motivated and energized than those who sleep in. Mornings are quiet and calm, allowing uninterrupted time to plan your day, center yourself and kickstart your productivity.

2. Nourish your body properly

Food is the fuel you provide your body and the better the fuel, the more efficiently your body will perform. It’s easy to fall into a pattern of mindless eating or grabbing something quick, but it by shifting your focus, you can ensure your body receives delicious, healthy food at each meal.

3. Feed your soul

Just as it is important to eat the right things, it’s also key to properly feed your soul. Spend time throughout your day to connect, laugh, dream, hope and be thankful. All of these help feed your body, mind and spirit.

4. Move

It’s been proven that exercise leads to better health and happiness as well as reducing stress, allowing us to more easily face obstacles and challenges throughout the day. This ‘task’ is one to try and incorporate into our daily routine, as the benefits to our wellbeing and productivity are wide-reaching.

5. Tackle one big task

Our daily to do list is filled with tasks big and small. In addition to tackling all the minutia, choose one significant project every day and make it your top priority. You’ll enjoy a sense of accomplishment by knowing you can cross it off your list.

6. Do something that brings you joy

We all have those things we must do everyday-work, errands and other responsibilities. It is important to also take time to engage in something you love and brings you joy, whatever that may be. Play your guitar, work in the garden, cook a meal, paint or draw, write a poem….

7. Be present

Put down your Smartphone, step away from the computer, turn off the TV. Engage with the people and the world around you. Let your senses be heightened. Listen, smell, taste, touch and experience this very moment for what is it. You’ll be amazed at what you’ve been missing.

8. Give back

Sharing your unique talents and gifts is one of the most fulfilling things we can do for ourselves and others. Giving back can be donating your time or funds to an organization you believe in, helping a neighbor, friend or coworker, or taking time reconnect with someone you haven’t spoken to in awhile. Find something that speaks to you and give back.

9. Reset for tomorrow

Each day is a new opportunity and to best embrace it, take time before going to sleep to declutter your spaces as well as your mind. Reflect on all the positives about this day and plan for tomorrow. Let go of anything that will not serve you well.

10. Get your rest

Getting enough rest is crucial for our physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. It allows us to operate efficiently and effectively, so try to retire and rise at about the same time each day. Although everyone is different, between 6 and 8 hours sleep is optimum for most adults. And if you find yourself waning mid-afternoon, try a short power nap to refresh yourself.