As we move into March, and the season begins to change we realize how fast the year is already going by. It is easy to get caught up in our routines and focus on the things you need to get done, rather than the things you want to get done. Most people set New Years resolutions and while most people are still going strong, I'm sure there is a lot of you who gave up on your resolution and that's totally okay! When we set goals we never know what types of things are going to happen that hinder us from reaching them. Life changes and we have to adapt and be willing to change with it.
I am a firm believer in finding balance. Work hard for your money, get your homework done on time, but don't forget about the things that make you happy. I think that self love and treating yourself is so important. Some people might look at you and wonder why you spend so much time and money on concerts or books, or even shampoo. The truth is, who cares what they think! if it makes you happy and you like it, go do it!
I wanted to create a list of some great ways to treat yourself and to practice self-love. My most important piece of advice is that no one is perfect! We're going to skip the gym and we're going to eat way too much pizza and we're going to go off track. Some days we're going to wake up and realize we've been so busy with work, and school and life, that we haven't been enjoying it! We're all out here pushing for our goals and striving for success and we should reward ourselves from time to time! So here is my list of ideas on ways to treat yourself when you need a moment to breathe!
1) Watch Your Favorite Movie (or any movie)
For someone with a busy schedule it's hard to just take 2 hours out of your week to just sit down and do something simple like watch a movie. This might not be the most glamorous treat, but some people just need an hour or so to relax. Look at your schedule, get all of your work done, and set aside some time to pick a movie and enjoy it.
2) Yoga and Meditation
For me, yoga is something I wish I could fit into my daily routine. Some people laugh at the idea of yoga and meditation, but I know how good I feel after a yoga class and I wish everyone could feel that way all the time. Try it out and see how it makes you feel!
3) Buy Something or Take a Shopping Spree
This suggestion does not mean go crazy and spend your entire paycheck. Keep a list of some things you want (not need) and when you have some extra cash, go treat yourself to these new things! New shoes, a camera, or maybe a weekend trip!
4) A Weekend Trip
As I mentioned in the last tip, treat yourself to a little weekend getaway! What better way to free your mind than being in a different place experiencing different things! Life is about memories and you're not going to make them by dedicating all of your time to sitting in the library all night long studying. Give yourself a little break and time away!
(PS: The beach is my most favorite place to go to just relax and have a clear mind. Find a place that makes you feel the same way.)
5) Read!!!!
If you're someone who likes to read, try making it a part of your daily routine. Instead of checking your social media for an hour before bed, take 45 minutes of that to read. Reading is sometimes hard to make time for so carry a book around with you just in case you find some down time throughout the day.
6) Get Active
No, this isn't a tip about losing weight or getting in shape. This is about doing something fun just for the fun of it! Go on a hike, learn to paddle board, take a Zumba class, and do it with your friends! Plan some type of activity for the weekend so that it motivates you to get your work done during the week so you can enjoy it.
7) Concerts!
I treat myself with way too many concerts, but I love it. I feel happy listening to live music and the day after is the worst because the "post concert depression" sets in. Life is short, spend your money and time on events that make you happy, even if that means seeing Thomas Rhett for the 10th time...
8) Journaling or Blogging
Another thing that some people might find silly, but I find it helpful! I have a book that is called "One Question a Day" it is a 5 year journal that you write in and it gives you 365 questions to answer and you answer one every day for 5 years. So for example, every year on June 3rd I am asked the same question and I get to document how I have changed and remember where I've been on June 3rd for 5 years. Just using writing as a form of reflection is so therapeutic and sometimes needed.
9) Let Go and Get Rid of Things
This is both spiritual and physical. Find some time to clean your room or desk or apartment, and treat yourself to a clean space for you to accomplish your work. When your area is clean it allows you to work more freely and motivates you to work because you're not surrounded by clutter.
10) A Night Out
Going on a date, out with friends, or even just a family dinner, please just go! Sure you have to finish that research paper but you could miss out on a really great memory. You can take 2 two hours to relax your mind and have a few laughs before getting back to work. Certain opportunities only present themselves once in a while, take advantage of them while you can!
I hope that with Spring and Summer right around the corner, everyone takes the time to treat themselves. Remember to not beat yourself up for taking a 4 hour long nap, or eating an entire tub of ice cream. We are human and I'd rather be happy doing something I love than miserable doing something that is expected of me. Remember that you are more than enough and a little break is not going to hurt you in the grand scheme of life. If anything it'll add a few more laughs and a lot more smiles.
