We’re presented with a multitude of choices everywhere we go. From ice cream to investments, there are an abundant number of decisions to make on a daily basis. While choices appear helpful, they can also be overwhelming and stop us from trying something new. After all, who wants to venture out to try something new when there’s a chance it might turn into a regret? Here are seven choices that continue to serve me well.
Eat healthy foods.
Many experts disagree on the definition of healthy food. Some believe we must be vegan to live our healthiest lives, while others believe eating like a carnivore is best. Instead of getting stuck on the details, I remember what they all have in common: Eat real, nutrient-rich food that hasn’t been processed. Foods that are tempting to consume today are often the same foods we regret having eaten tomorrow. Yet I’ve never thought back and regretted eating something healthy. Eating healthy today makes us feel better tomorrow.
Be nice to others.
A mentor of mine has a sign that reads, “Being nice matters.” It’s a truism we’re reminded of as children, yet many of us don’t think about it much as adults. Whether we’re poor or wealthy, everyone is struggling with something. Simple acts of kindness can go a long way in changing someone’s day, or even their life. We’ve all said things we regret, but there is no need to beat ourselves up for the past. Start with being intentional with what you say. Let the good words out, and let the bad ones go.
Save money.
Financial expert Dave Ramsey says, “You must gain control over your money or the lack of it will forever control you.” One of the best ways to gain control over money is to save it. Whether it’s for a future vacation, an unexpected setback, or planning for retirement, money is a great tool to have at the ready. Question the recurring expenses and advertised temptations. Saved income today is always appreciated tomorrow.
Learn new things.
Many people think of education as an activity done in high school and college, but learning doesn’t have to stop there. Find books that align with your passions or listen to podcasts that interest you. The best thing about choosing to learn something new is that you can pick whatever suits you best. If you have the time and patience to learn, no topic is too difficult.
Keep an open mind.
During 2020, one could see the political dvision anywhere they went. Friendships were broken, arguments ensued, and mindsets were closed. Yet keeping an open mind has been one of the best takeaways I’ve learned over the years. While I don’t agree with every topic I’ve come across, I develop a better understanding of where they come from. Better yet, their ideas allow me to revise mine to better align with my values and beliefs. An open mind is a portal for growth.
Spend time in nature.
Go for a walk amongst the forest. Sit on the beach and stare at the ocean. Let your problems dissolve, even if it’s just for a moment. Soak up the sunshine, and listen to the sounds around you. We are all so small in the grand scheme of things, and nature helps ground us in this truth.
Practice gratitude.
Most of us have so much to be thankful for, yet we rarely take time to notice it. We woke up in our beds, yet we’re annoyed because we want more sleep. We ordered a sandwich, and we’re annoyed because they added the wrong condiments. All along, we forget to be thankful for the bed we sleep in and the food we eat. Even on the worst days, I notice there are still things to be grateful for if you look hard enough. Simply saying thank you to others for the work they did can have a big impact.
Eat healthy foods.
Be nice to others.
Save money.
Learn new things.
Keep an open mind.
Spend time in nature.
Practice gratitude.
While people can get lost in the technicalities of any of these given topics, keep it simple. Don’t let perfection get in the way of progress. As long as we are striving to make better choices than before, we are bringing the best forward.
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