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The One Simple Action That Feels Like a Pain but Instantly Transforms Your Day
This morning, I found myself staring down at the slide-on sandals on my feet, debating whether I should just wear them all day instead of taking the time to put on my socks and sturdy exercise shoes.
My brain tried to convince me that just wearing sandals would save time, and told me that I could always change into my gym shoes later when it was time to exercise. But I knew that was just a trick.
I decided to take the extra minute or two to put on my gym shoes, knowing that it would benefit me in several ways.
My feet would feel better, especially the one that had surgery 6 years ago.
And wearing my exercise shoes would make it way more likely that I’d do my weight lifting routine today.
If I were wearing the sandals, my feet wouldn't be adequately supported, increasing the risk that I might skip the workout, especially since to change my shoes later involves going downstairs and sneaking into my bedroom without the cats following me in there (more work than just putting them on in the first place).
This got me thinking about how often we face similar decisions throughout our day.
We might feel a bit of resistance to spending the time on small actions that seem insignificant at the moment.
We tell ourselves, “oh, it’s just not worth the time,” or “I don’t feel like it.”
But when we think of these actions as investments in our well-being rather than mere expenditures of time, we see their true value.
Here are 10 quick actions you can take in 1-2 minutes that can have a significant impact on your day - out of proportion to the resistance you might feel to taking the time to do them.
- Drink a Glass of Water: Stay hydrated and take a moment to enjoy the process..
- Stretch for a Minute: You’ll feel better all day.
- Take Three Deep Breaths: Reset your mind, wake up your brain and body, and reduce stress instantly.
- Write a Gratitude Note: Jot down something you're thankful for to change your brain chemistry..
- Clean a Small Area of Your Workspace: You’ll feel better. I promise.
- Send a Positive Message: Reach out to a friend or colleague with a quick note of appreciation or encouragement. Endorphins and dopamine for the win!
- Step Outside for Fresh Air: A minute in nature can refresh your senses and clear your mind.
- Organize Your To-Do List: Prioritize your tasks to feel more in control of your day and make sure you are doing the right stuff.
- Do a Quick Mindfulness Exercise: Ground yourself in the present moment to enhance focus and reduce anxiety.
- Put on a Favorite Song and Dance: Elevate your mood and energize your body with a burst of joyful movement.
Each of these actions is small and takes only a moment, yet you might feel that bit of resistance to spending the time on them.
Instead of viewing these moments as interruptions that steal 2 minutes of your life, see them as investments.
Just like putting on my gym shoes this morning, these tiny actions set the stage for a happier, more productive day.
Remember, it's not about spending time but investing it wisely.
Each small step you take to care for yourself builds a foundation for a happier, healthier, more productive and fulfilling life. Start with these 10 quick actions, or just pick a few, and watch how they transform your day, one tiny investment at a time.
I’d love to hear which of these helps you the most. Comment below and let me know!
And remember, the one that sounds the least appealing may well be the one you most need!
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Weight loss or emotional eating: releaseemotionaleating.com
Stress/overwhelm/work-life/relationship issues: endselfsabotagenow.com
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