12 Simple Life Hacks That Make Life A Bit Brighter
Life can feel like a never ending to do list, punctuated with the ever so-sudden blow to the chest (and wallet, or both). Especially if you have adult responsibilities like quarterly taxes, a social life, and kids.
I found these little saviors when I lived in New York City, with an upstairs neighbor who decided getting a large dog was an excellent idea. And when my career began to take off, which in turn completely ripped my personal life to shreds. In other words, I found these simple life hacks when I desperately needed them to work. And boy did they work.
In this article we’ll review 12 simple life hacks that will genuinely make life a bit brighter and a lot better. Stick around to the very end for an extra tip that no one (okay maybe a few people) talk about.
1. Morning Ritual:
We often hear, “how you start your day sets the tone.” I half agree. Life takes turns, energy shifts, things unexpectedly occur. However, I have noticed when I take a few minutes for myself before I rush to help everyone else, I’m able to feel more grounded and whole. Whether it’s sipping on a cup of tea while watching the sunrise or taking a few moments for deep breathing exercises, find what brings you joy and incorporate it into your morning routine. Trust me, it’s like sunshine for your soul!
2. Positive Affirmations:
I live by affirmations. I have been preaching them way before they become an internet sensation. Take a few minutes each day to repeat a handful of affirmations such as “I am capable,” “I am deserving of happiness,” or “I am grateful for the opportunities life presents me.” These simple phrases can work wonders in shifting your mindset and perspective on life.
3. Declutter Your Space:
If you have a neurospicy brain like yours truly, then a cluttered space can lead to a cluttered mind. It’s always best to take time to declutter and organize your surroundings. Start small by clearing off your workspace or tidying up a corner of your home. Wipe down the kitchen counters and light a candle when you are done. You’ll be amazed at how much lighter and more focused you’ll feel once you’ve cleared away the excess. Check out tips on how to declutter your mind here.
4. Harness the Power of Music:
Music has a unique ability to uplift our spirits and elevate our mood. Create a playlist filled with your favorite upbeat tunes and press play whenever you need a little pick-me-up. Whether you’re dancing around your living room or singing along in the car, let the music help brighten your day.
5. Practice Mindful Breathing:
When life gets hectic, take a moment to pause and reconnect with your breath. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, focusing on the sensation of the air filling your lungs and the gentle rise and fall of your chest. Mindful breathing can help calm your nervous system, reduce stress, and bring a sense of peace and clarity to your day. Try Alo Moves breathwork if you are new!
6. Get Moving:
Physical activity is not only great for your physical health but also for your mental and emotional well-being. Incorporate movement into your daily routine, whether it’s going for a brisk walk, practicing yoga, or dancing around your living room. Find what brings you joy and makes you feel alive, and make it a regular part of your day.
7. Savor the Simple Pleasures:
In our fast-paced culture, it’s easy to overlook the simple pleasures that bring us joy. Take a moment to slow down and savor the little things, whether it’s enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning, basking in the warmth of the sun on your face, or taking a leisurely stroll through nature. By appreciating the beauty and wonder of the world around you, you’ll find that life becomes more vibrant.
8. Pause and Remember:
In the midst of life’s chaos, take a moment to pause and remind yourself that everything is okay. Whatever challenges you’re facing are temporary, and you have the strength and resilience to overcome them. Embrace the present moment, knowing that it will pass and there’s so much to look forward to.
9. Evening Ritual:
Similar to taking a few moments in the morning, make sure to wind down your day with a soothing evening ritual. Whether it’s lighting a scented candle, taking a warm bath, or practicing gentle yoga, find what helps you relax and make it a regular part of your bedtime routine. By prioritizing self-care, you’ll promote better sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
10. Turn Off, Tune In:
In a world that’s constantly buzzing with notifications and alerts, give yourself permission to disconnect from technology and tune into the present moment. Turn off your phone. Yes, power it down for a few moments. Step away from your computer, and give yourself the gift of uninterrupted time to recharge and reconnect with yourself. With no one having access to your energy or time, you open yourself up to clarity and answers. You’ll notice over time how much this simple life hack reduces stress.
11. Embrace the Woo-Woo:
I love me some holitic healing modalities. So much so I started an entire business around concepts that truly drive results. My biggest tip is to try everything. Dive into the world of holistic healing practices such as sage smudging, palo santo burning, crystal therapy, meditation, and sound healing. Whether you’re cleansing your space, aligning your chakras, or simply basking in the healing vibrations of sound, indulge in a little woo-woo magic to nourish your mind, body, and spirit. You can always pair these practices with the other simple life hacks on the list to elevate your experience. For instance, smudging before journaling, crystals in a salt bath before bed, or sound healing during breathwork.
12. Enjoyable Escapes:
Take time each day to indulge in something that brings you joy and feeds your soul. Whether it’s playing a video game, going for a skateboard ride, or watching your favorite movie, give yourself permission to have fun. By prioritizing activities that bring you happiness, you’ll infuse your days with moments of pure joy and fulfillment.
Bonus: Write it Out
This is the biggest thing I preach on Intuitive Together. Writing is an incredible tool for insight, stress relief, anger management, dreaming, and more. Channel your thoughts and emotions by putting pen to paper. Take a few minutes each day to write down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, allowing yourself to process and release whatever is weighing on your mind. Whether you’re venting frustrations, expressing gratitude, or setting intentions for the day ahead, writing can be a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth.
I hope you enjoyed these simple life hacks! Always remember, your loved ones are always just a phone call or a short drive away. Reach out to them whenever you need a listening ear, a shoulder to lean on, or a warm hug. Connection is a powerful antidote to loneliness and a reminder that you’re never alone on this journey called life.
Incorporating these simple life hacks into your daily routine can help you navigate life’s ups and downs with grace, ease, and a sense of inner peace. So go ahead, give them a try, and watch as your days become brighter, more joyful, and infinitely more fulfilling.
