How to get the most out of your day?
Everyone is different and often our intentions for the day ahead change dependent on timing. We live in a world where until recent world events took over, there has been increasing pressure to ‘do’ more. It has filtered through to every area of our lives from work, to family life, to leisure time, to travel. It seems it is no longer acceptable to just be and live a good honest life. I think Covid has caused many to stop and question how they have become caught up in this often negative cycle and hopefully one good thing to come of it will be people will assess what really makes for a fulfilling, happy life and consequently will be willing to strive for whatever that is. That said, we all have demands on our time and differing priorities to keep within our day so how can we be sure we are making the most of our day.
LISTS: I like a list – an actual written list – tells me what I need to get done, what I’d like to do, and a clear visual aid of when I’ve done it. The most productive time of day varies for everyone so figure out when you have the most energy and use it.
EXCERCISE: It is well documented that physical activity stimulates the brain and can make us more alert and therefore more productive so it makes sense to try to get it done early if possible and if not ensure you have a slot carved out for it. People struggle with fitness and it’s generally not because they haven’t got time for it but because they don’t view it as an essential component in both their health and their schedule. It is time we all realised that it should be viewed the same as a work meeting or a Drs appt – something not optional that can’t be dropped at the last minute. If you are a reluctant exerciser then doing it early also means it won’t be looming over you all day and you will feel a sense of achievement that it’s done.
SLEEP: It is now recommended that 7 hrs is optimal and that the sleep before midnight is more beneficial to the body than the hours after midnight but as with all things we shouldn’t spend time worrying that we aren’t fitting the ‘ideal’. If you aim for 7 hours that’s a great start. Then you can work out which 7 hours leave you more refreshed and try to stick to those when you can.
CREATIVITY: I work better under pressure (years of experience have taught me this) and the process of writing works for my brain – I write things with a pen and paper first - somehow it helps my brain unravel my thoughts. Other people hate pressure and it dampens their creative energy. They want to feel relaxed and rested – take a bath/ light candles/ create an environment that works for you. I like a slightly manic life but there is a tipping point which is important to avoid. Create time outs/ thinking slots – allow your brain a rest and you will come back better able to tackle the tasks at hand.
LEARN TO PRIORITISE: – essential/ ideal/ optional/ aspirational – these are good markers for figuring out your daily goals. It’s likely the essential take up much of your time and brainpower but try to ensure at least 1 or 2 from every category – the more aspirational you achieve the happier you are likely to feel.
Ultimately making the most of your day is about feeling happy and healthy so that you have many more to come!
Brooke x