What’s something you’ve done in the past that your present self is grateful for? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Ever have one of those days where you wish your past self had done something to make it easier for your current self? Same. That’s why I’ve been doing small things lately to make my life calmer, more carefree, and joyful tomorrow. Future me deserves a solid. And since your next-day (and next-year) version likely does too, consider these small actions that pay off down the line.
How to be happier and more successful
- Don’t take on “just one more thing.” Future you will appreciate not being overloaded with work.
- Put “happy hour with the girls” on Friday’s calendar. Having something to look forward to can reduce stress and bring out that beautiful smile.
- Write a compliment to your future self. Stash the note somewhere random and then forget it. You’ll feel good when you find it again.
- Think of one or two setbacks. Plan for the “what ifs” now so you can know how to pivot and stay on track.
- Rebrand those hard-but-good-for-you actions like saving instead of spending or picking a healthy meal over takeout. According to Psychology Today, framing your choices as small sacrifices rather than considerable burdens makes them more doable. That helps you stick with them.
- Move it, move it. Dance, take a brisk walk, whatever. Regular movement can help you manage your weight over time, which lowers your risk for all kinds of health issues.
- Go ahead, draw the line. Setting boundaries today makes it less likely that you’ll have to deal with nonsense or resentment later.
- Save a “lift me up” note on your phone. Add songs, memes, activities, anything that raises your spirits. Turn to this list on those days when life is really lifing.
- Plan for that “you know it’s coming” expense—an appliance replacement, vacation, or home repair. Calculate the cost and then set aside a smaller chunk each week, biweekly or monthly. It’ll help you avoid money messes later.
- Finish this sentence: “I feel excited when…”Knowing what brings them joy is one of the habits of happy people.
- Do the thing now, not later. Instead of pushing something off to tomorrow, knock it out today. That’s one less thing on your plate.
- Learn how to DIY. If there’s something small you always have to ask someone else to do, like resetting the Wifi, figure out how to do it yourself. It will save you the stress of having to rely (and wait) on them to do it.
- Now, make someone else more self-sufficient. If someone relies on you for something all the time, teach them how to do it themselves. That way, it’s one less thing for you to handle.
- Sink into Child’s Pose. This full-body stretch helps loosen the kinks in your shoulders, spine, lower back, pelvis, hips, thighs, and ankles. Loosening things up today may prevent tomorrow’s would-be aches and pains.
- Play a “what if it works” moment in your mind. See yourself snatched and unbothered. Strut into your new (and better) job. Be loved as you deserve. Visualizing future success can give you the motivation you need to make it a reality.
- Monotask for a bit. According to Harvard Health Publishing, focusing on one task at a time can reduce mistakes. So, you won’t have to fix or stress about something later.
- Take a 20-minute nap between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. A short snooze in the early afternoon can help you destress and recharge.
- Call up Crystal. Maintaining social connections can boost your mood, improve your health and help you live longer.
- Do 12 squats before every meal or snack. Strength training keeps your body strong, which helps you stay active and independent for a longer period.
- Set a “do it again” reminder. When you do something that brings you joy, put it on your calendar for another day.
- Fix one thing that’s bugging you, like the light in the bathroom that keeps flickering. Minor annoyances add up and cause stress. Take care of it now so next week you don’t have to deal with the irritation.
- Let that grudge go. The Mayo Clinic says that forgiveness is beneficial for your health, mood, and peace of mind. Later, you’ll be glad the issue is no longer weighing you down.
- Say aht aht to your inner critic. Stop negative self-talk now so your future self feels good.
- Name as many words as you can that start with the letter Q. Or V, Z, etc. This and other mental gymnastics will help keep your brain and memory strong.
- Make that therapy appointment. If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression or need help through a tough time, reach out now. It can make the road ahead much smoother.
What’s something you’ve done in the past that your present self is grateful for? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
