When you are feeling lost in life, it is easy to take the path of least resistance. Whether for you that means laying in bed and shutting out the world or staying in your normal routine. Note that everything on this list should be done in moderation. Finding one outlet and zoning in on that will not help you find a well-rounded path.
#1 Try Out New Hobbies
Have you ever wanted to learn to sew, wakeboard, or practice yoga? Why not start now? Hobbies are a great way to make new friends, find purpose, and feel accomplished. You never know how good you could be at something until you give it a try.
#2 Talk To Your Loved Ones
Your friends and family know you better than anyone. Call the person who can bring you back to your goals and inspire you to be the best you can be. Talk to them about your life, their life, or even the weather. But communication is great for the soul.
#3 Journal
Writing things down can help you organize your thoughts. It allows you to vent without having to share your personal business. A journal is a great tool to rationalize your thoughts and think clearly.
#4 Work Out
Working out does something for your body that other outlets cannot. It releases endorphins and encourages a healthy body when done correctly. Always remember that although fitness is a goal, it doesn’t hurt to treat yourself to a slice of pizza every once in awhile.
#5 Relax
Take a bath, go for a walk, knit, or sit in the sunshine. Do something positive that is relaxing.
#6 Set Goals
Make a few goals that you would like to finish in the next week, month, and year. For example, if you are unhappy in your job, you might want to set a goal for the next week of looking at the qualifications you need for the job you would like. Then, by the end of the month, your goal could be to gain three of those skills. By the end of the year, you want to be in that new job.
Each goal should be actionable, have a time limit, and be realistic. Then you should set mini goals for how you are going to make that goal come true.
#7 Read Books
Reading a book can be relaxing and can change your point of view on a situation. You could read a novel or even an inspirational book to get your mind going. What gets you excited for the next stage in your life? What makes you feel like you are understood and are not alone? Find that book and indulge.
#8 Get Dressed Up
Put on your favorite outfit and go into your day with confidence. It is much easier to find your life’s path when you are confident and ready to take on the world. Putting on a good outfit increases confidence and puts you one step closer to your goals.
#9 Hold Yourself Accountable
Make a calendar and stick with it. Plan outings with friends, group gym classes, and meals for the day. Then don’t let yourself drop your plans if you are not motivated. The first step to success is just showing up.
#10 Redecorate
Make your environment inspiring. Paint your room your favorite color or put pictures on your desk that remind you of the things you love. A little change of environment can help you feel refreshed and ready for a change.
#11 Get Rid of Negativity
If a negative thought comes into your mind, acknowledge that you could be negative and dwell on it or you could ignore it and do something to create change. If a friend comes over to gossip, change the subject. If your coworker wants to complain about your boss, say something positive back. Once you make this a habit, it will come naturally.
#12 Unplug from Social Media
Don’t let the expectations or lives of others influence your decisions. Delete the social media apps from your phone for a month and just live life. You won’t believe how little you miss it after a while.
#13 Forgive But Don’t Forget
Forgive yourself and others for things they have done in the past. You are trying to move forward and do not need baggage. But do not be naive. Know your boundaries with people and take the relationship for what it is worth.
#14 Help Someone Else
The sense of accomplishment that can come from helping someone else is unbeatable. Whether you volunteer at a food bank or send your friend who is having a bad day a care package, the positivity will multiply.
For help with forming goals or other mental health questions, visit http://www.allisonholtmd.com.
