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Have you ever learned something that blew your mind but simultaneously made you regret all of the time you spent not doing it? Like meal prepping on Sunday evening, watching your favorite Netflix show while walking on the treadmill, or working remotely instead of commuting. We are always on the lookout for ways to improve the quality of our lives, so why not hear some tips from others online too?
2 weeks ago, Reddit user Kxrll reached out asking others to share the things that improved their lives so much they wish they had started doing them sooner. The comments were flooded with time-saving tips and habits people developed that increased their happiness. So we hope you enjoy reading the responses below, and maybe you’ll even be inspired to start reading every evening or eating healthier as well. Be sure to upvote the replies that resonate with you, and then if you’re interested in finding out more small habits that can have an impact on your daily life, check out this Bored Panda piece next.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Doing at least one chore a day.
You would be amazed at how well getting *something* done, even if you hate it, can fight back against certain depressive mentalities, particularly the ones that convince you you're useless or are a burden.
WordWeaver 3 years ago
Yes. I set myself a task a day plus an extra "if I can". Then I can feel pleased with myself if I manage both, and even, occasionally a third one. Clinical depression sucks.
Sharkbait1313 3 years ago (edited)
There is something about getting into a "made" bed everynight that is good for mind and body. A friend of mine who went through rehabilitation for drug use said something that stuck with me. She said " I know I am in danger of relapse when I stop making my bed in the mornings". It was a red flag that allowed her to take a step back, and reevaluate.
Sue User 3 years ago
For ne its the opposite. Dad was military, and yes he taught us how to do military corners so a quarter could bounce off the sheets. Now, for me, getting in a rumpled bed feels so decadent.
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KC 3 years ago
Couldn't agree more. It doesn't even have to be anything major. Just spending say 15 minutes a day to tidy a few things is helpful. I like to chop it up, I pick three areas a day, spend 5-10 minutes tidying it up weather that be dusting, vacuuming, folding blankets or picking up dog toys. Just a few minutes and it helps so much.
Powerful Katrinka 3 years ago
I'm an addiction counselor. I tell all of my clients to start making their beds every morning. Part of my answer when they ask why is, "It's the morning you telling the evening you that you love her."
Alice Landers 3 years ago
I had that moment this week I forced myself to do stuff that I kept putting off ! It felt so good I actually patted myself on the back and laughed! Said good job girl!!
Katinka Min 3 years ago
Or doing tiny littel bits of household while waiting for your tea to brew, your microwave to finish. 2min, 3 min, over the day, it adds up to a relatively clean kitchen.
Fitz_N_Fartz 3 years ago
This, I am of an age and live on my own. After a few years on my own I got a little lazy, did things a and when, and with that started to feel low. Managed to convince myself to get back on track, started doing chores regularly (instead of in one hit) and felt better mentally so I can agree with this.
We all know that certain things on this list are good for us: exercising daily, eating healthy, taking walks, avoiding conflicts with strangers on the internet, etc. But as with anything else in life, developing healthy habits is easier said than done. We can decide that we want to cook more meals at home to save money, but executing that plan does not happen overnight. Humans are creatures of habit, and to develop a new routine, we usually have to disrupt our current one.
There is a widely held belief that it takes about 21 days to break a habit, as Dr. Maxwell Maltz claimed that most people need about three weeks to get accustomed to a new home, new facial features from a plastic surgery operation, or losing a limb due to amputation. This three-week rule does not always apply though, as getting used to something new is not necessarily the same as kicking a habit you have had for years, like smoking cigarettes or eating processed sugar every day.
RELATED:
#2
Stopped arguing with random strangers on internet.
Paul C. 3 years ago
Don't argue with idiots, they will drag you down to their level and then beat you with experience.
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Sapna Sarfare 3 years ago
Yup.. very rarely i do that. Also, once i make a statement, i choose to move on. I just avoid revisiting to know what they said. I made my point. That's it.
Seadimo Monnapula 3 years ago
Im on the fence on this one. Sometimes the idiocy is too harmful for me to let it go unchallenged at most
Marlowe Fitzpatrik 3 years ago
This. Some things just need to be countered with facts and counter-arguments. If the idiot proves themself to be nothing but a troll, I can always back out later.
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Rachel Gerstner 3 years ago
I learned this along time ago. 99.9% of the people you're arguing with just don't care, you can give them a list of sources and they will just ignore it because having to admit that are wrong will hurt their ego and they can't have that. So why bother?
Zoe Duddle 3 years ago
My hope is that other, more open minded people, read the facts and benefit from it, rather than them just reading the person I’m arguing with’s original post and believing it.
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Monday 3 years ago
I dunno...I'd be missing a few of my worldviews and opinions if I'd never argued with random strangers online. Sure it can be frustrating, but occasionally you may interact with someone that totally (and often forcefully) flips your opinion on something.
Hobby Hopper 3 years ago
That's an important and very difficult skill, to be able to change your mind. Kudos to you.
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Laugh or not 3 years ago
I decided to stop long arguments : I post something, if someone disagree, I may post one reply to explain, and if they still don't agree, that's fine. We don't need to agree on everything.
#3
Moved away from the state I grew up in. I didn't know how unhappy I was. I had gotten used to being miserable and now that I'm in a better area I'm a completely different person.
Alexia 3 years ago (edited)
Big upvote. For me it was moving away from my toxic, abusive family. I needed approx. 1 year to get used to the calm, quiet atmosphere in my rented apartment. It was unbelievable that days can start without slammed doors at 6 am, with no yelling, arguing and insults. Wish I had done this earlier, instead of desperately hoping that my family would change and treat me better.
Tattooed Mama 3 years ago
I have lived in Dallas/Fort Worth for 57 years and in 2 years I'm moving to a place that has seasons and snow.
Tricia Georgetti 3 years ago
I'm from Long Island currently in Maryland. I cannot surive without season. Fall and Spring are my favorite times of year and I do also love the snow! Best wishes on your future move.
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Fancy that 3 years ago
I wish I could do that. I am 50yrs old and stuck in abusive marriage with cancer. I just want to be free. For me, its just a fantasy.
Tree P 3 years ago
I am sorry for you. I hope someday you can get free and take care of yourself.
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ButFirstCoffee 3 years ago
I moved away from the city to the country side. I used to be angry all the time at the people making noise on the street and the neighbors walking loudly on the above floor. I have zero stress now and not angry anymore.
renee barnes 3 years ago
Holy c**p!!! I can relate, been in the az desert for 32 years, I never liked it here but I have a house, income but the desert isn't for me and ever summer I get more depressed and unhappy I need water green trees grass, house will be paid in four years I hope I can find a way to move within my financial range.
Celtic Pirate Queen 3 years ago
We moved from San Diego back to the PNW. Seeing green trees & smelling the local river was SO worth it.
Sleepy Panda 3 years ago
This is a dream for me..... I dont think i will ever get to escape Ohio though....
If you are really interested in breaking a habit to make room for a new one, there is unfortunately no perfect timeline to follow. There are various factors coming into play like how long you have had the habit for, how often you do it, what rewards you receive from it, whether other behaviors or those around you enable the habit, and what your motivation is for stopping. For example, quitting drinking will be a lot harder if your partner has a glass of wine every evening, and your plans with friends always involve alcohol.
Some research from the University College London even suggests that a more realistic gauge of how long breaking a habit will take is about 10 weeks. Don’t let that discourage you though; sustainable changes take time. Be patient with yourself and implement small changes first. If you want to reduce your sugar intake, for example, do not go cold-turkey. Begin by banning sugary drinks and/or candy from your household. Then slowly work up to cutting out baked goods and frozen desserts as well. If you are torturing yourself, your changes are not likely to stick.
#4
I stopped living my life just waiting for the weekend. When you work 5 days a week and have just 2 off, it's not good to be always waiting for those 2 days. You can plan something meaningful or fun every day, even if it's just a small thing.
KC 3 years ago
That is true of most people. But spend a few minutes a day doing something YOU enjoy. If its say sitting on the porch with a cold or hot drink, or standing and gazing out a window, something for you is a good thing. Sometimes I like to do something fun like pick up sandwiches from a store, throw a blanket on the ground and eat in a park, or outside, or if its cold inside and it just helps to improve my mood. Not all activities have to be super time consuming or have to use a lot of energy. Just do something every day for you.
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Deborah B 3 years ago
Have some sort of creative hobby, and make an effort to do a bit each day - even if it's 10 minutes. If you have space limitations, try having something set up on a tray so you can pull it out and put it away quickly. It doesn't matter if its an adult colouring book, embroidery, scrap booking, poetry writing, music. It revitalises your spirit to do something you love.
Misty-Dawn Amayi 3 years ago
"Every day is a gift" is so, so, true. It's a day in your life that you'll never get back once it's gone. Make it a point to do at least one very enjoyable thing every day, and mix it up, and learn something new. Tired? Listen to good music. Use audio to learn a new language or to listen to podcasts. Call a loved one. You'd be amazed at how much it changes your quality of life. Because existing isn't a good enough reason by itself to keep on living. Having a life worth living is good enough reason.
Cartoon Fan Girl 3 years ago
Would it be an exception if your job is something you love too do?
Katrin Krueger 3 years ago
Mundane, but true. Those 5 days are your life too. Imagine having to look back at all the life you have wasted just waiting for your vacation or for Saturday.
Psycho Cat 3 years ago
I plan many things, but then, I come home, tired, stressed, nervous and just go to bed.
Wysteria_Rose 3 years ago
I try to but god I just want to sleep or sit down for the rest of the day when I get home.
#5
Getting a dog
Jiminy 3 years ago
But please... Don't get a dog if he would be alone the whole day, if you cannot afford a vet, or if you have no idea what to do with him when you go on vacation the next time.
Mitchell 3 years ago
Sadly, it depends. If the alternative is a kill shelter or life on the streets, a safe home with love and food but a bit of loneliness is okay.
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LisaMarie 3 years ago
I wish I could upvote the more! I recently got a puppy (a dashund) and he is the best thing to happen to me in a long long time. I'm doing up my garden for him (I have never done anything with the garden since I moved in 20 years ago) he has gotten me out walking every day so I feel much better. And he makes me belly laugh everyday as he is just hilarious 😁 If you have the time to give them and of course you can afford to mind them.. get a dog! 😊
Kitti B. 3 years ago
I absolutely agree! Since I have a dog I go outside every single day no matter how tired, busy or lazy I am. No matter what the weather is like. It was a burden at first but by now I can't wait to go out and spend some time with my buddy.
Sue User 3 years ago
When I was sick and recovering, having to feed the cat helped me get out of bed.
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Gabby Ghoul 3 years ago
Back in the '90s I had a friend that was involved in dog rescue and she had a dog that had been returned several times after placement because, well, not everyone is cut out to have a border collie. Anyway, when my friend was preparing to move away, she suggested I keep her as, she said, "you love her, she loves you, border collies need a job, and you can give her one." (The latter meaning that since I'm nearly blind that I turn this dog into a service dog.) "Take her home for a week and see how it goes," she said. I had that dog until she was almost 14.
Munnin 3 years ago
We have a border collie. Definitely the smartest and cuddliest dog I've ever had.
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Jon Clingenpeel 3 years ago
I wish i could up vote this 100 times! Every dog we have had the pleasure of being with has been nothing but joy and happiness when I get home. People kid that they kiss their dogs before their significant other when they get home but it’s all true.
WordWeaver 3 years ago
Cats. Just ... cats. Never mind the memes about their callous indifference. Not true.
Stephanie Wittenberg 3 years ago
Many upvotes! They are very loving, fun, and nothing relaxes you more than a cat curling up on your lap and falling asleep!
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Shauna Hicken 3 years ago
Don't do it if you're going to leave it alone barking all the time because its lonely
#6
Got a cat
Laugh or not 3 years ago
Mine probably saved me during my last depressive episode. I took responsibility for her, I must go on.
Load More Replies... WordWeaver 3 years ago
Having cats and having to care for them and having them heal me - that was beyond price.
Wysteria_Rose 3 years ago
Yep! All of my family acted like I was adopting a child, but our kitty acclimated fairly quickly in our place and is now running it. She's the best thing I've ever brought home.
Lady Lava 3 years ago (edited)
Absolutely! When I was young and I got my first real apartment (before that I lived with roommates), the first thing I did was getting a cat. Especially during the time I was single, it was so good to have her to come home for. And when I suffered from anxiety and depression, her being there helped me to calm down and feel a bit better. I have a family for quite some years now, and my mental health is stable, but that same cat, elderly now, is still with me. She's a special little friend!
Alice Landers 3 years ago
They are independent ..not needy Sometimes we all want to be alone but our kitty knows when its time to need us to love them in return
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Alana Voeks 3 years ago
My cat during my childhood is literally the only reason I'm still alive today.
River Davis 3 years ago
Cats can be fantastic pets. I hope people come to understand them better. They're so often seen as less than dogs or only for specific people, but they're wonderful pets. Just know that cats are not meant to be outdoors. They're more at risk for death, cat fights, injuries, diseases from birds and rodents. They kill trillions of birds every year. Cats can be wonderful, my friend's kitten is a precious baby and a little weirdo. Even tho I don't live with my friend, just seeing her cat helps me a lot and helps me calm down. She's a very sweet baby full of love. Highly recommend cats, do your research, and learn to be a good pet parent :)
On the bright side, it is typically much easier to develop a new habit than to break an old one. So after you finish this list and are feeling inspired, start making arrangements to do at least one chore every day or find a therapist that suits your needs. While all changes take time to get used to, picking up a new hobby or healthy habit that improves your life will always be worth it. For tips on how to get started, I consulted James Clear’s blog post “How to Build a New Habit: This is Your Strategy Guide”.
His first recommendation is to “start with an incredibly small habit”. He notes that often we assume that we lack the willpower to achieve a goal, but willpower is just a muscle that we need to strengthen. If you have a goal of doing 50 pushups per day, for example, remember that is your goal. You can start out doing 5 a day. Then maybe 10 the next week. There is no reason to rush when it makes a small habit seem unattainable.
#7
Stopped caring what others think about me.
ace axolotl (she/her) 3 years ago
this is really hard. i always tell myself not to care too much and that in twenty years i'll think, "why did i care so much about what others though?" however it's really hard to let go of this thought process. maybe it'll come with age.
Callie Ge 3 years ago
It definitely comes with age, I’m 58 , the only peoples opinions that matter to me are my (adult) Childrens. Don’t care what any one else thinks. When I was young I would seek approval, it really bothered me if someone didn’t like me, I believed it was because of some failing on my part. Fast forward forty years & I really don’t care, you don’t like me , on your bike, move on.
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Miss Cellania 3 years ago
Like they say, when you're young, you care about what other people think of you. When you're middle aged, you don't care what other people think of you. When you're old, you realize they weren't thinking about you at all.
Callie Ge 3 years ago
This happens naturally as you get older , I’ve gotten to the point where I don’t give a flying fat frogs flipper what anyone thinks of me & im much happier for it. As the great Dame Helen Mirren says, “ If there was one piece of advice I would give my younger self it would be to use the words “ F**k Off” far more frequently.”
Jon Clingenpeel 3 years ago
This definitely isn’t an overnight switch for me. Took lots of looking back in the past and seeing why I acted a certain way so others would appreciate me or think differently. Now I just act myself and the people that like me like me
River Davis 3 years ago
I've been learning to think this way. Whenever I feel that way, I ask myself "why is this a problem? This random person you may never see again. They'll probably forget your face. You may be a story to them at worst, but who even cares? You won't hear what they say. Why does that make you uncomfortable?" I'd rather just be happy. Unless something is a serious problem (like stalking, harassment, causing you to go through stuff, etc.) then it really doesn't matter. Learn to be okay with yourself. This is coming from someone with anxiety and a fear of people, I get it, it's hard even now. I have to talk to myself actively and prioritize my needs. It's a process.
T'Alana Stone 3 years ago
I cannot believe how much it irritates me how pestered I am by friends peddling beauty products. "Your hair could be so much more..." "I can make your skin..." "I have this cream..." I LOVE MYSELF, FLAWS, FAT AND ALL!!! LEAVE ME ALONE!!! It took me years to move past the so called flaws in my physical appearance, and I am working on parts of my personality I am not fond of (emphasis on I am not fond of), I don't need the support people in my life telling me I'm insufficient.
#8
Learning to set boundaries and say no
Kel_how 3 years ago
I tell everyone to go to therapy! I've had several friends tell me that I was the reason they started going; I removed the taboo.
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Marilyn Russell 3 years ago
And you don’t have to offer any explanation. Let your yes be yes and your no be no. I confess I only fully learned these lessons fully until fairly recently - after age 50. So much time and energy wasted feeling like you have to accommodate others.
WordWeaver 3 years ago
Did a course of cognitive therapy that changed my life. I think I actually grew up at last! Learning to say yes or no as I wished and needed was part of that.
River Davis 3 years ago
I have BPD and HPD, my friend has DPD. We are both practicing boundaries and it's helping us both a lot. Learning to communicate, set boundaries, say no is helping us both a lot. I've seen her start to enjoy herself and alone time more and I've felt a lot better and more secure in our friendship over it. It can help a lot. If someone doesn't respect your boundaries, that is their problem and a sign that boundaries WERE needed. My friends, as anxious I was about me setting boundaries with them, were always understanding. People who are worth it will not be upset over it.
RandomFrog(He/They️️) 3 years ago
Hehe my parents learned how to do that. They said I can only be a girl, and say no when I say otherwise. Haha…. *cries in closeted trans*
Madzdad the Bard 3 years ago
No is a complete sentence, you are not obligated to explain why. That was a very important lesson it took me 45 years to learn.
Alana Voeks 3 years ago (edited)
Yes, but you really can't in some situations. I got into a fight with my parents at one point when I was younger. I stormed off, but I closed my door gently. I locked it because I needed time to cool off, but then I got a slam on my door. I was threatened with my door being removed if I did that again. Meanwhile, I was walked in on twice while getting dressed because no one respects me as a person here. I don't have the ability to say no. I never have.
Carman Davis 3 years ago
Yes!! Kids love boundaries. They will push but in the end they will respect you for it!!
Fancy that 3 years ago
For me its not kids... its the adults who exhaust me!
Load More Replies... #9
Cut toxic people out of my life
Sue User 3 years ago
They do get replaced. One and a half years after starting over, was sitting with people on 4th and realised how good it was.
Load More Replies... Wysteria_Rose 3 years ago
Yep, even family members who you're "supposed to love." Toxic is toxic, no matter if you share blood with them or not. It's never worth keeping it in your life.
Kiryn Silverwing 3 years ago
I spent years of my life trying to make peace with my bullying, abusive older sister because "she's family" and we're supposed to love each other. Covid was a good excuse to cut her out of my life since she turned crazy wacko anti -vax and couldn't stop talking politics when we visited no matter how much I told her to stop. I only wish I'd done it twenty years ago.
Load More Replies... WordWeaver 3 years ago
Resigning from teaching did that for me by and large. Never regretted it.
Littlemiss 3 years ago
Best thing I did! Bliss is no longer caring about them or their opinions.
Joshua Moore 3 years ago
This should be way higher on the list. Toxic people only drag you down!
Gabby Ghoul 3 years ago
Yes, even if they are related to you! My brother has barely spoken to me since I came out and that's actually been OK.
Miss Frankfurter 3 years ago
I’m going to be moving. Changing my phone number. The toxic people in my life won’t be getting it. Enough is enough.
River Davis 3 years ago
Including family. If your family makes you feel bad or like you have to force it, they aren't worth it. You deserve people that make you feel energized, safe, secure, and will be okay with you setting boundaries. Good people will make life so much more worth it.
Once a very small habit has been developed, James recommends increasing it by 1% every day. “Rather than trying to do something amazing from the beginning, start small and gradually improve,” he writes. “Along the way, your willpower and motivation will increase, which will make it easier to stick to your habit for good.” Once you have built up a habit, James notes that it is important to keep your goals reasonable to maintain momentum. Don’t be afraid to break up your 20 minutes a day of meditation into two 10 minute chunks or your 50 pushups into 5 sets of 10. It is much better to have manageable goals then to become overwhelmed and throw in the towel altogether.
#10
Reading books way more
Laura Ketteridge 3 years ago
Audiobooks are a great way of adding books into a busy life. I use audiobooks on my morning commute, and before bed.
pink_panda 3 years ago
My local library has access to a ton of audiobooks on their app! Totally free and a fantastic way to get more reading in while driving, doing chores, etc.
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Mark Erwin 3 years ago
I started reading again last year and my quality of life and thoughts are so much better now
River Davis 3 years ago
I have ADHD and cause of school as well, I lost my love of books. I couldn't read a sentence without getting distracted. I have books I've been buying, I've finished a few that meant a lot to me, I've been picking up reading again. Just recently I've been reading a book that is a lot like my trauma. It can be a bit triggering, but it's such a good story and I've been so hyper focused on it. It's all about finding the right book for you. It's okay if reading isn't for you as well, my friend has bad dyslexia and can't even read that well in video games cause of it so she never reads. But finding my love of reading again has helped me slow down, relax, help with ADHD boredom, and even find ways to express myself since I like to pick books that are intriguing fantasy adventures or I know will be something to hit me in the feels and my trauma. I get good cries from booms as well. It's boosted my mental health.
Maggie Hood 3 years ago
Comics and manga also count as reading. Getting immersed in a good story is good for yoy
Echo Ornett 3 years ago
I love reading and I try to read 4 books a week which I sometiems do but here and there there will be a months where only 1 book was finished
Meghan Turnis 3 years ago
I don't know if this is weird, but I have more interesting dreams if I read a book. TV or movies don't usually do it - something about needing to create the images myself.
Judy Stembridge 3 years ago
Podcasts are my new favourite. Never knew I was so interested in history.
A random girl on the internet 3 years ago
I love books man. Currently reading The Hounds of the Baskervilles and it's amazing. The Valley of Fear is also one of my favorite books.
#11
I started viewing things as potential experiences rather than just opportunities for achievement.
Before that, for example, if I took a class then I was only focused on the grade. If I couldn't get a good grade, I didn't like the class. Heck, I wouldn't even start a book if I thought it might be too hard or too long and I might not finish it.
Then I realized the purpose of classes (and books and other things) was to learn and that hard ones were likely the ones I learned the most from, even if I didn't get the best grade.
I started doing all sorts of stuff with the idea that I just wanted the experience. Even if I was the worst one out there, who cares? I wasn't there for the achievement, I wanted to learn things.
This works socially as well and I started taking way more risks, telling myself that, at the very least, it would be a learning experience.
I saw a saying once: "It's only a failure if you stop trying, otherwise, it's an experiment." I love it.
Marilyn Russell 3 years ago
I tell my younger friends and relatives to try something and if you really don’t like it you can walk away but at least you tried a new experience. I regret those things I didn’t do because I was scared or had a lack of self-confidence.
Lyone Fein 3 years ago
I wish more people would understand that this is really the purpose of going to college.
Kiryn Silverwing 3 years ago
I didn't get the opportunity to try new things at college, because my dad was paying for all of it and was very strict about me graduating in a reasonable time so it didn't cost him more. My class schedule was planned out 4 years in advance with no wiggle room for electives that weren't graduation requirements, and I was so busy studying that I wasn't able to try out many things outside of school either.
Load More Replies... River Davis 3 years ago
I love to live for experiences. Video game achievements are experiences for me. But I love to do stuff because it's an experience I can look back on, laugh about, cry about, tell stories about, etc. I love to look back and have a happy memory. I have trauma so it's nice to have things I can look back on and reminisce without getting super depressed over how it's gone and I was never really happy. I also love photos, especially doing photography in games (using my switch.) I can see the photos and reminisce and laugh. So even if I can't go out and live it, I can have em in games.
SheamusFan1987 3 years ago (edited)
Words of wisdom indeed. Rather than wondering when you will reach your destination, enjoy the ride. Sure, you might get sidetracked and take longer to get there, but that only makes the journey more memorable when you arrive and look back on how you got there. The fact is, we all get there eventually, it's just which route we decided to take: The immediate route or the scenic route, and I personally will be taking the scenic route.
Kiryn Silverwing 3 years ago
And honestly, if you rush to the destination too quickly, you might realize when you get there that it isn't where you wanted to be after all. Try more things and enjoy the journey more and you've got more opportunity to change your path along the way.
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Anne McKinney 3 years ago
I try to view everything as an experience. For example getting caught in the rain on my bike. Is it the end of the world? Certainly not. It is an adventure to be treasured and remembered. It's only water from the sky and not that big of a deal. Just enjoy your life.
#12
Left my abusive relationship of 14 years.
WordWeaver 3 years ago
Well done, you! They had the chance to learn to be a better person but didn't - now you go have a better life. Arohanui
Anna Snorrepot 3 years ago
you weave your words so well! This time into a celebratory cape that OP can wear :)
Load More Replies... Marilyn Russell 3 years ago
If someone doesn’t treat you with respect, they are not your friend. Do you want to be in a relationship with someone who isn’t your friend? I say that as someone who lives with a sometimes turbulent and self-centred individual who tells me I’m a victim when I stand up to his nonsense. I did leave for a while but was lured back when he needed help looking after his elderly parents who lived in our house. (That’s another story.) I wonder sometimes if it is better to live alone than to be lonely in a marriage.
Bored Retsuko 3 years ago
Sorry to read this! As to your last sentence: Yes, it is. ❤
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Pamela Hutchison 3 years ago
Congratulations. I was in one for over 5 ... we lived together for 5 and it was very very hard to pick myself up by the bootstraps and walk away. I mean it was pert near impossible but I did it anyway and although I may have had a more comfortable life had I stayed, I wouldn't be content or able to be my true self... it's so hard especially when the other person has a hold on you through mental abuse...ongoing and daily...but it's so nice to wake up in the morning and open my eyes and have the ability to smile...even before I get up...so f**k comfort and not struggling and having very good expensive meals and weekly vacations to Disney world each year when most of the days and moments of life is spent being unhappy, nervous, anxious or wondering what you did wrong this time or why you aren't any good...it's not worth it. I've been there. Trust me. God doesn't want that for us. We were not meant to be in so much pain all the time...or even most. But it takes a crapload of courage to
Pamela Hutchison 3 years ago
Especially when you have little to no support or encouragement and nowhere to go.
Load More Replies...Inevitably, there will be a few moments where you slip up or fall out of your routine. Life just gets in the way sometimes, with things like injuries, family emergencies, and holidays disrupting our plans. James writes, “Rather than trying to be perfect, abandon your all-or-nothing mentality.” Nobody is perfect, so your aim should be consistency. Don’t beat yourself up for falling off track on occasion, just continue along as normal. Lastly, James says to be patient and “stick to a pace you can sustain”. Long-lasting changes do not happen overnight, so don’t give into the temptation of letting impatience discourage you. If you really want to develop a sustainable habit, there are no shortcuts, but the effort will be worth the reward.
#13
Stopped going to church. Not going to church is such a big part of my life now. I wish I had not gone sooner.
Drive Bee 3 years ago
THIS! Best decision I ever made. I tried for so many years to make it work, kept making excuses for everyone and everything there, and then one day I thought to myself, I don't have to come here if I don't want to. The freedom and relief I have had since then are immense and I see things so much more clearly from outside the bubble.
Leslie Cookietown 3 years ago
If you have a close relationship with God, it doesn't matter where you worship and love Him, however, reading the Bible on a regular basis is vital!! Bein' surrounded by NATURE is the best church ("God's Cathedral"!!)!! 🤗
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Lula Lulu 3 years ago
Glad I'm not the only one. Started out thinking it would be a healthy way to raise a family. How naive and wrong I was. Now I'm free I realise how much I was being spiritually, emotionally and financially abused. Not to mention the misogyny. The last straw was being told I could no longer discuss career or relationships with the congregation and should just stand in the corner and smile. Ugh.
Madzdad the Bard 3 years ago
For me it was finding the right church. Grew up a conservative Lutheran and am now a part of a liberal Episcopalian church. Such welcoming, inclusive, wonderful people.
Tree Of Rage 3 years ago
The rudest, most aggressive and moraly corrupt people I've ever met in my life where people I met at church
WordWeaver 3 years ago
Yes, DriveBee - if you feel that weight lifting off, then you know you have made the right decision. And if you feel the need for more spirituality, there are many many paths to try. Who needs the dogma and social control, anyway?
Marilyn Russell 3 years ago
I used to be engaged to a pastor-to-be, taught Sunday school and we even cleaned the church, but I learned that people often put on their Sunday best as I call it. It’s how you live the rest of the week that matters. You can be spiritual and not have to be religious.
Lioness Nature 3 years ago
I quit this when I was 19. Never looked back the best decision I ever made in my life. I went from Christian, to Catholic, to Baptist, to Seven Day Adventist. So no one can say I didn't try. I actually just preferred knowing what, how, and why things happen (answered by therapy and higher education) instead of the response of "it's all apart of Gods plan" , " only God knows why", or the most common " God is testing you". Plus there are so many creeps and judgmental people in religious settings. A place where people gathered, and talk sh** about everyone after service. Not welcoming at all. That whole "come as you are, we're all God's children" is a set up, they try to shame into changing who you are. Felt sorry for those in LGBTQ+ community as they're always targeted in multiple ways. They never practice what they preach.
Raccoon Queen 3 years ago
HERE TO PROVIDE ALTERNATIVE PERSPECTIVE FOR PEOPLE TO RELATE TO SO THEYRE NOT ALONE. For me, it was the opposite. My life improved when I started going to the right church for me. I’ve found my community and it makes me happy. I am glad I left my old church because they had too much money that they were spending on s**t for themselves. I’m happy to find a small, strong and mission minded, and community based church!
abby smink 3 years ago
Religion is great, people are not. Whatever you choose to practice, can be done from whenever you are, usually.
Ash 3 years ago
I used to go to church regularly it fed my soul and I felt ready to start the rest of my week on a good note. Now my church has turned into a Republican church I cant deal with the hate and discrimination it has effectively ruined my relationship with my God.
Pamela Blue 3 years ago
If your relationship with God is ruined, it won't be Him who ruined it.
Load More Replies... #14
Quitting drinking is the best thing I’ve ever done for my mental and physical health and it’s done nothing but improve my relationships. The last year and a half have been the best I’ve ever had
Lyone Fein 3 years ago
Congratulations. Your efforts are valuable to yourself and those around you.
Wandaluzt 3 years ago
Congratulations, you've just pointlessly tried to reply to someone who posted this on Reddit and not this site.
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Destiny Thornton 3 years ago
This hasn't been upvoted enough. Drinking can destroy lives and is very hard to quit. Congratulations and I hope the rest of your new life continues to be happy and healthy. 👏❤️
River Davis 3 years ago
Drinking, if done, should always be in moderation. Yet it's so normalized that people who are more likely to get addicted end up trapped by it. Not everyone is able to be fine if they drink regularly, yet the pressure is there. Even with me, I know I'm at risk of abusing it so I have to be sure I will limit myself if I ever do. I wish drinking culture wasn't such a norm. It's fine in moderation, but not everyone can do that. It's like having a buffet and expecting every person to be able to control themselves, it isn't gonna happen. But very proud of you and anyone else who has been working on this. It's hard and it's so worth it. You've got this, mate! /gen
Leslie Cookietown 3 years ago
Incredibly brave and impressive of you! We're SO PROUD of you! God Bless You!!
Wandaluzt 3 years ago
It was posted on Reddit. You are not replying to them.
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#15
Walking! I’ve got stamina again
BiscuitOfDoom 3 years ago
I'm in complete agreement with this. I went from hardly ever walking to 4 or more miles a day over the past year and it feels great.
Callie Ge 3 years ago
I used to love walking, up to 50 kl a week, I only used my car to pick up groceries or if it was raining. Sadly I had a spinal injury 20 years ago, but I still walk my dog, we go out every evening for an hour walk unless it’s raining. I’ve trained him to walk beside my motorised wheelchair & obey verbal commands so we move as one.
abby smink 3 years ago (edited)
I recently changed jobs where I walk almost none compared what I used to. And, I recently had to say goodbye to my fur baby, and walking him was about the only exercise I ever got, so I decided to take a walk every day I'm off (4). It gets me out of the house, gets me exercise, and I get to see dogs and that helps with the sadness of missing mine.
Gabby Ghoul 3 years ago
I used to walk 3.5 miles to get to a train to take me to work. Those 7 miles a day kept me in pretty good shape.
A random girl on the internet 3 years ago
For anyone who lives in Belgium = Totemus app. You will not regret having it on your phone. Because of it I can walk 10km per day with no problems.
Jerry Ryan 3 years ago
Yes I need to get back to walking again just me and my dog no one else just to try and relax my mind from the day but it's been way to hot for it
Marilyn Russell 3 years ago
I used to walk all the time when I lived in a big city and now that I have a dog I try to go out on a daily walk down my country road with him. It is a peaceful time when I can reflect, but also good exercise for both of us.
While reading this list, you might be realizing that your life could stand to have some improvements too. It is important to appreciate what you have and find a way to be content wherever you are, but there is nothing wrong with a little self-reflection. Maybe you’re realizing that a healthy habit you once had disappeared somewhere along the line over the past few years. Somehow that 6am daily workout got phased out of your life after taking on a new job or moving farther away from your gym. It is easy to slip into a routine on autopilot and forget that we have the power to make changes, however, making an effort to set and work towards goals is a great way to bring motivation and excitement to our lives.
#16
Eating dinner or a late snack at work. Too often I would leave work hungry, and the temptation driving past Chick-fil-A or the corner taco shop was too much. I've kept my weight under control for a couple of years now, having dropped from the 220s to the 170s.
Firstname Lastname 3 years ago
I always have pocket snacks at work. It's a little pick me up to get me through the last two hours of my shift so that I'm not cranky and hungry.
Leslie Cookietown 3 years ago
That's terrific! And you did it all by yourself! We're very proud of you! God Bless Ya, Friend!
Marilyn Russell 3 years ago
Anyone who has to lose weight - try intermittent fasting, resetting gut flora and avoiding sugar, dairy and gluten. I have a digestive disorder called Sibo and had to go on a restrictive diet for a few months, but I never counted calories, watched fat or was ever hungry once I adjusted what I ate. And I lost all the extra weight I was carrying for a decade at age 52, with only walking and yoga for exercise. The weight comes back on a little when I allow treats back on my life.
joe skevis 3 years ago
Just don't take this as an excuse to fat shame. Never comment on someone else's weight.
Harold Miller 3 years ago
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#17
Got a proper diagnosis. I think a lot of people that for years questioned themselves “what’s wrong with me?” when they finally got diagnosed it’s a big relief and changes a lot in a better way
$cagsy 3 years ago
My therapist tells of a man who was constantly worried that he might have AIDS. It was debilitating and prevented him from fulfilling his potential, every day, worry, worry, worry. One day he tested positive for it and it changed his life. He could do all the things he wanted to do because he was no longer worrying about his diagnosis. The human brain is a curious thing.
Julie Cipale 3 years ago
I started having skin & muscle issues that my MD couldn't diagnose. He referred me to a dermatologist who then referred me to a specialist in Seattle for a scratch test (see what I could be allergic to). By the time I of my appt., I could barely walk, I couldn't eat solids (could only manage water & watered-down apple juice), & barely holding on emotionally & mentally. Specialist walked in the room, took one look (literally) & said, "You have dermatomysositis!" It's a very rare autoimmune disorder & I was the first person in my small community to have it.
Anna Snorrepot 3 years ago
now that it's got a name you can get to know it and learn to live with it. Find out where the dials are to tweak your days. Good luck explaining it to your community though. But it's real, it's not in your head.
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Mistiekim 3 years ago (edited)
Doctors are wonderful people, but they don’t know what you go through every day. You have to be your own advocate when they aren’t listening to you about your symptoms. Go to a second doctor if you have to.
RK Barbo 3 years ago
It's not always that easy for poor people to just go to a second Dr. Even with insurance, you could pay big bucks for not seeing your primary provider without a referral
Load More Replies... Lioness Nature 3 years ago
Due to trauma and having incompetent psychiatrist in my life I was doped up with multiple medications as a minor till I was numb, tired, and sleepy all the time. A walking zombie. Misdiagnosed as bipolar. At 21 found out I don't fit the symptoms of bi polar, all I needed was trauma therapy for my past and depression. Therapist are hard to find. Finally got a good therapist recently after 5 previously assigned. Don't give up looking for help and that perfect fit. You will know when you meet them.
River Davis 3 years ago
I know I'm autistic and have ADHD, but getting diagnosed is so terrible. I'm really only diagnosed with a few things. I've experienced OCD since I was 7 at least and yet didn't get diagnosed until I was 18 and even then, it was in brief passing like "yep that sounds like it." Mental health systems in America are so poor. And especially with my family being quite neglectful, they end up guilting me for not bringing it up when I was a child even though A: I did, B: no one believed me, C: I was a child that had most of my actions normalized. I've had to help myself more. If you can get diagnosed, go for it, it's worth it. I wish it was more accessible, at least here in America.
River Davis 3 years ago
Addition: Getting physical diagnoses as well. I ignored my issues and hid them around my period. Turns out I have PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) and my testosterone levels were super high. I'm on birth control now, having normal periods, and my body feels so much more stable than before. I also got vitamin D supplement cause it was low and I've had such better sleep since then. My appetite is more normal too. It's so nice to get help. If something feels wrong, seek help if you can. Cause I feel like my body is finally in control and it is an amazing feeling.
Load More Replies... #18
Bachelor degree at 47 years old. Master degree at 50 years old.
Doubled my salary in 4 years, from just getting by to on track for retiring at 60.
SheamusFan1987 3 years ago
Life is one big classroom without the walls, you never stop learning and you never should.
Matt MacFarlane 3 years ago (edited)
Journeyman electrician ticket at 47. Power engineer ticket at 54. Never too old. Keep learning.
Shelby Moonheart 3 years ago
My husband did this too. It helped him in his journey out from PTSD and other mental issues.
Brenda White 3 years ago
Yay!! Woohoo I mean it!! This is an amazing achievement. Congratulations 👏
Wysteria_Rose 3 years ago
Just obtained my masters. People keep asking when I'll go for my doctorate. I am completely fine waiting to get it later (I have other things I want to focus on first). I know plenty of respected professors and colleagues who didn't get their education finished till much later in life.
Notorious DBT 3 years ago
Same except I'm the one wanting to get my doctorate.
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Shehzadi Amal 3 years ago
Must be nice to be able to afford the ability to double your salary.
Brian Stanton 3 years ago
People take on assistantships or crippling loans for graduate school …. Do you have an education?
Load More Replies...Professor of Psychology Leslie Riopel wrote a piece for Positive Psychology titled “The Importance, Benefits, and Value of Goal Setting” that breaks down the reasons why we should all have aspirations. She notes that it is normal for our goals to change over time as we get older and develop our priorities, but they are still important to have so that our lives don’t become stagnant. It’s easy to feel aimless or meaningless when we don’t have anything to look forward to. But when we set goals, particularly very specific ones, we have something driving us. According to research in goal-setting theory by Edward Locke, “Over 90% of the time, goals that were specific and challenging, but not overly challenging, led to higher performance when compared to easy goals or goals that were too generic such as a goal to do your best.” It is assumed that we all want to be happy, do our best, etc, but not everyone wants to run a marathon in the next year or get a promotion at work before their next birthday. Set your sights on goals specific to you.
#19
When I was told that I would lose my eyesight it made me pay more attention to how beautiful the sky was. I can still see and I enjoy watching the clouds on a level I can't even explain.
Autistic apricot 3 years ago
Yes, we should all look at the sky, just make sure you’re not looking at the sun
Auntriarch 3 years ago
Unless you have your eyes shut. I love looking at the sun through my eyelids. I have no idea why.
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Garth Bock 3 years ago
"I've looked at cloud's from both sides now.. From up and down and still somehow... It's cloud illusions I recall.. I really don't know cloud's... at all." - Joni Mitchell. - Both Sides.
RainbowHearts 3 years ago
I lovee looking at the sky, and as a landscape photographer I take pictures and look back and the sky always is the one thing that catches my eye. Then at night I'll just go outside and lay on the ground and people think I'm insane
Alana Voeks 3 years ago
I lost sight in my left eye one day for a day. I laughed about it the whole time, but I was also appreciating the things I still saw. Just like how I never take my times when I can breathe clearly for granted, I don't do that either with my sight (and especially with colors).
Jerry Ryan 3 years ago
I truly looked up into the sky for the time in years and ended up looking at the amazing clouds for a hour and a half. changing shapes, hitting each other, combining it was cool
#20
Meeting my wife. That woman fills my heart in ways words can't describe. It just can't be too much sooner because then I wouldn't have my awesome step-sons.
Leslie Cookietown 3 years ago
A great partner/mate/spouse is worth everything! Having somebody to love is grand but being truly loved in return is the highest of highs! It's a gift from God!
Madzdad the Bard 3 years ago
I couldn't agree more. After a dismal 18 year marriage I made sure to be alone for a few years and learned a lot about myself (via counseling). The most important was that I was attracting people that were emotionally unavailable, meaning that I made myself do the heavy lifting in the relationship (this was true for some of my friends too). Once I understood that I found the love of my life and we were married two years ago. She is my absolute best friend.
River Davis 3 years ago
Met my girlfriend when she was 14 and I was 16. We've been dating for 5 years now. I feel so happy with her. We were toxic at some points (we both have trauma and I have BPD. She'd shut down, I'd ignore my needs, we'd fight so we were both in bad places.) But as adults now, we both feel so much more stable and happy. We can communicate, we've both matured a lot, and we've both been getting help. I'm so happy with her and can't wait to marry her. We support each other a lot. I feel like we are in a genuinely good place in our relationship. It's long distance, but I can't wait to finally meet her in person. I started dating her a month after dropping my ex boyfriend which also contributed to our relationship not being great because my ex was abusive and I hadn't healed from that. But to see us both grow and be in good places now, it's wonderful. I love her with all my heart and can't wait for my future with her.
Terri Montgomery Toland 3 years ago
I wish I could feel loved like that. I'm on my third marriage and still don't feel like I'm anything special or like I'm worth it.
#21
Learning how to do everything myself. Car issue? Look it up. Fix my fence? Look it up. Just do it all myself. Replace valves? Look it up.
If they don't find you handsome, they should at least find you handy.
SabbeRubbish 3 years ago
You are becoming one though. Just keep trying new things to repair/do, that's how many "techies" go through life :-)
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Gg 3 years ago
Was told it would cost $300/$400 to fix the AC in my car but they didn't have time today. Looked it up online, watched videos, ordered the part. Had the glove compartment all taken out when I noticed something on one of the videos. There's a way to reset my instrument panel. Did it and the AC instantly turned on. Saved myself hundreds.
River Davis 3 years ago
I am definitely interested in this as well. I like to do things myself, feel I have a good understanding, etc. I like to do things with my hands as well. Even in Sims games, I always gave the Sim of me the handy trait. I also like being able to help out my friends with advice and help if I can. It's a wonderful thing to learn how to do it yourself if you can!
Leslie Cookietown 3 years ago
There's not much else that makes a man attractive, in my opinion, than a guy who will learn to do and then do it (except when he wants me to hand him a glass of sweet tea when he gets hot from all that workin'!!)
Shehzadi Amal 3 years ago
Red Green for the f****n win! Still one.of the best local access shows ever.
Sara Sanders 3 years ago
My husband says that handsome/handy line all the time. So true, though! Most professionals google it or just ask someone else for directions so why can't we?
Goal-setting can also be an important factor in taking care of our mental health. Riopel writes that, “Goal setting has been shown to help improve the outcome in treatment, amongst studies done in adults with depression.” Battling depression can take a huge toll on an individual, but by setting goals in treatment, like slowly implementing routines including taking a daily walk or cleaning their apartment, patients can feel proud of what they accomplish and more motivated to keep fighting. Their goals can be reminders that their lives can get better, slowly but surely. One study even found that patients who participated in goal-setting exercises were more willing to accept a mental health referral, which can be crucial to improving their health.
#22
listening to the sound of rain to fall asleep
Littlemiss 3 years ago
Yes!! Peter Thomas had the most wonderful soothing cadence.
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Marilyn Russell 3 years ago
That is my favourite - and with thunderstorms. So relaxing! I wish I could make my own recording the next time it rains.
River Davis 3 years ago
I love the sound of rain and thunderstorms. Even afternoon thunderstorms will make me sleepy. I find audios of em sometimes when I have bad insomnia. Ambiance videos have helped so much or things like "video game soundtrack with thunderstorm ambiance" help so much. Typically it's Zelda or Animal Crossing music for me. It also helps me focus when painting or doing another task.
Jacqueline Rose 3 years ago
I do this too, and sometimes listen to sounds of waves on a beach.
WordWeaver 3 years ago
Especially in Western Australia where rain isn't common. Love the sound, and more, knowing I won't have to pay for water to water the plants and lawn.
#23
working out and deleting most social media like twitter
Anna Snorrepot 3 years ago
love your name! I'm glad you post here, my day is better having learned of your name. We have squirrels in the garden, we live next to the forest :)
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Marilyn Russell 3 years ago
Social media is of no interest to me, though I do have a YouTube account to upload my videos so they don’t get lost if a device fails.
Mahogany Eclipse 3 years ago
When I did this with Tumblr, Twitter and Reddit (FB stays just because its the only way I can connect with some friends), its been so much nicer for my mental wellbeing.
River Davis 3 years ago
I had to block the notifs on Twitter cause of how much I got. I am so glad. I get on occasionally to see my Twitter mutuals sometimes, make sure they're doing alright, send em some love, but staying off it is nice. I avoid comments sections especially ones I know with fighting, I don't endlessly scroll anymore. I still have social media to stay in touch with folks long distance, but getting away from it is wonderful.
Wysteria_Rose 3 years ago
Removed Facebook from my phone a couple of weeks ago. Weirdly, I feel less alone without it than I did and checked it every hour. It's awkward cause people ask "did you see my post" and I have to say, "Uh, no, no I didn't" rather than "Oh, I'm not on Facebook anymore." I don't want to come off uppity about it but it really has helped my focus better.
Pamela Blue 3 years ago
I only belong to facebook, and I'm only on that for a couple of hours a day. I only have it on my laptop, not my phone. I don't have Instagram, Twitter or Tik Tok or anything else, so I have time to have a life.
#24
Not everyone can afford this but: moving closer to work.
My commute went from 45 miserable minutes in traffic glaring in hatred at the tail lights in front of me to a pleasant 15 minute bike ride. I got an hour of free time every day and better health.
Lee Macro 3 years ago
After my old job made me redundant as I didn't want to relocate to the big smoke, my new job took my commute down from 1-1.5 hour drive to a 10 minute walk. It was quite a drop in salary and although the commuting costs saved didn't quite make up for it, the amount of time I got back more than made up for it
Alice Landers 3 years ago
So it was worth it? It sounds that it was !_quality time even by yourself is quality
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Zeta Thompson 3 years ago
Thank you for being aware that many people can't afford to move closer to work, now if only work would recognize that and compensate or allow work from home.
Jen Cook 3 years ago
Canadian here who worked in Asia for a few years. I genuinely miss riding a bike to work. Just don't have the infrastructure in my city for it to be safe. There is a freedom with a bike that is beyond any other mode of transportation. No need for anything, just my bike and I was an incredible freedom and not to be crass but my butt and legs never looked better. I still ride as much as I can but miss it being my main way to get around.
Kiryn Silverwing 3 years ago
Everybody gets the same amount of hours in the day. Any way you can save a bit of time that you're not getting paid for, the richer you'll feel.
Setting concrete goals can also yield more success than working towards vague aspirations. Dr. Gail Matthews, a clinical psychologist from Dominican University of California, found that individuals who write down their goals, share them with a friend and send weekly updates on their progress are on average 33% more successful than their peers whose goals are simply floating around their minds. Though it seems so simple, there is power to putting our goals on paper or speaking them out loud. Making a firm commitment to a task may seem scary, but it also makes us much more likely to be successful.
#25
Quitting smoking.
Claire Schwickrath 3 years ago
In 1992, after 25 years of smoking a pack a day, l met someone who told me how to quit. Pick a day up to 2 months ahead and write it on your calendar. Put post it notes around if you want to. Tell people or not, your choice . Ten days before that day go off your brand. On that day get up, smoke if you want to, but at some point that day , stop. It worked for me, but be warned, there are daily and seasonal triggers as well as stressful moments when you feel like you MUST smoke. Those feelings pass. I told myself l'd start again when l was 70. I stopped craving cigarettes after a year and l'm now 73. You can do this
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Biliegh Berrie 3 years ago
I quit 6 months ago. Well worth it!!!! Call that 800 quit number if you wanna quit and get the free losenges!!!!!!! They also give you gum or patches.
Eda Tezoler 3 years ago
Quitting smoking was the best decision I had. It's been 2,5 years and counting. I am proud of myself and my lungs likes me more :D
WordWeaver 3 years ago
Well done, you! I believe it is more addictive than heroin, so a massive achievement. Suggest you save that money - think how pleased you will be to see the $ add up, to go towards something more pleasing to you!
Abed Habi 3 years ago
I quit in 2006. My husband had quit a few years earlier, and I had tried several times to no avail. I finally told him that I didn’t think I would be able to quit unless somebody figured out a way to make cigarettes ineffective. That’s exactly what Chantix does, and shortly after it came out I asked my doctor for a prescription. I used it as instructed, and I’ve never craved a cigarette since. There were a few months where I would find myself thinking something was missing, but all I had to do was find something to distract myself until I forgot about it. I’ve never regretted quitting for a second—and I’ve saved myself a small fortune!
Jerry Ryan 3 years ago
Tell me I've tried and something stresses me out(but it's like everything stresses me) I start smoking again twice as bad
Shelby Yousif 3 years ago
The best thing I ever did! I wanted to quit so bad, thought I couldn't tried t he bupropion, patches, gum... Then I read this book, EasyWay to Quit Smoking by Allan Carr. Worked like a charm. Been 10 years now!
#26
Daily exercise. It doubled my energy for an hour out of my day.
Bethany Heller 3 years ago
Nature I can understand but exercise only leaves me bored, angry, and drained.
Load More Replies... Alana Voeks 3 years ago
Everyone recommends exercise for everything, but I did it a full two years and never felt better. I ate healthier, hung out with friends more, yadda yadda. But depression sucks.
Marilyn Russell 3 years ago
I did start daily exercise of some sort when Covid started and I lost my job. I have less headaches from yoga and stretching and more energy for sure. If the weather is nice enough, I try to walk my dog down my country road which is very relaxing too. A time for contemplation.
Benjamin Singletary 3 years ago
Your body is built for movement, and when you do yourself a favor and move, you will feel great! (As long as you're eating food, you need that too)
#27
Trying to be more positive in general.
Jon Clingenpeel 3 years ago
Yes! It’s so easy to be the negative Nelly at work, I have to catch myself not to criticize unless it’s going to help or if I have an answer. I never have the answer btw
Alana Voeks 3 years ago
Just don't let this turn to toxic positivity, which it can real fast. Learn when people just need to feel their emotions (including yourself), and know when not to say "I'm sure it'll work out/be just fine!"
Marilyn Russell 3 years ago
But you don’t have to fake it if you are down. Not your job to make everyone feel good. Learned that too. If you’re more positive though, you attract the same to you more often than not.
Madzdad the Bard 3 years ago
You know, I used to be what I called an "optimistic pessimist" meaning that when things went right I was pleasantly surprised, but I work every day to be a true optimist. I don't always succeed, but it has certainly made my life happier.
River Davis 3 years ago
Best way to help: treat yourself like you'd treat a friend. You wouldn't insult em for messing up so why do it to yourself? It helped me a lot with my negative head speak. Also be realistic with things. Instead of being negative, focus on the realistic side of things, talk yourself through that. It's helped me immensely. You don't have to be positive about everything, but being realistic can help a lot since it doesn't give unrealistic expectations.
Jerry Ryan 3 years ago
A coworker actually had compliant against her(now get this)the customer complained she was too cheerful and yes the boss had call her into his office over it
Anna Snorrepot 3 years ago (edited)
Some bad things need to be thought about but you can pick a time slot to do so. Tuesday at 10 in the morning, for 30 minutes. Everytime the stress thought creeps in your mind refer to the set agenda. And start thinking about something else. For example how to build a skelter out of vegetables.
Has this list inspired you to take up a new hobby or adopt a new healthy habit? It has certainly reminded me to stop slacking off on some of my "routines" that used to be daily but are now falling into the "weekly occurrence" category... Whether you aim to learn a new language, cut toxic individuals out of your life or quit smoking cigarettes, write that goal down and say it out loud. Once you have developed the habit, you'll probably be wishing you had done it sooner. Remember to upvote all of your favorite responses, and then let us know in the comments what improved your life so much that you wish you had been doing it all along.
#28
No one has said it yet, but Lazer eye surgery.
Best money I've ever spent.
CrazyDogLady 3 years ago
I've been trying to save up some money ro get my eyes fixed! Hopefully next year... 26 years with glasses, how will I get used to not wearing them?
Kiryn Silverwing 3 years ago
I'm not sure I'll ever get used to it. I had ICL implant surgery 15 years ago at the age of 23 to fix my -10 diopter nearsightedness. I still sometimes find my hand reaching up to my face to adjust the glasses I haven't worn since the early 2000s. Best thing I ever did though! It's a revelation to be able to just wake up in the morning and be able to see, or when I'm in the shower or swimming and wouldn't have been able to wear my glasses otherwise.
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Saeyoul Akiyune 1 year ago
Too scared to do after "Final Destination 5" - I'll stick to my lenses 😅
Louise Rexford Wolfram 3 years ago
Did this 15 years ago. One of the best things I've ever done!!
Julie Fager 3 years ago
Yes!!! I was *severely* nearsighted for years and YEARS. Had LASIK in 1998. Best 4k I've ever spent!
Janelle Lease 3 years ago
I hear from many people they loved theirs. I hope that I can afford it one day.
#29
Finding the right therapist. Been in since I was 9, and found the right one at 23. It’s only been maybe 6 months but I’ve already unpacked so much more trauma in that small time than I did all the other YEARS wasted in therapy.
Ziggyc 3 years ago
Bravo for you,just finishing 3 years of it for CPTSD ,can finally day I know who I am and I love me scars and all
Alana Voeks 3 years ago
I have no.trouble.unpacking stuff, I have issues with people telling me everything will work out just fine and downplaying what I feel. It's hard to go if you can't find someone to take you seriously and see you aren't "every patient".
Jerry Ryan 3 years ago
I wish I had enough courage to do this I carry full set luggage and suitcase is stuffed full
WordWeaver 3 years ago
Totally agree. My best one retired due to ill health. (Guess he carried a lot of other people's pain, the great souled man).
#30
Exercise every day. Anxiety and depression are much easier to manage, and I got some confidence I haven't had in years
Tigerpacingthecage 3 years ago
Yes. Movement and working out is really key to keep my anxiety at a manageable level. Even if I don't like it - I know it will help. When I want to do it the very least it helps the most. I don't have time to go to the gym everyday with work and kids but try to involve some movement for days when I can't. Like, I bike everywhere (that really makes a difference) and have some dumbbells and resistance bands at home - that way I can always fit in a 20-30min session and feel much better afterwards. I wouldn't say it is the magic cure to end anxiety or depression but it can absolutely make a difference.
River Davis 3 years ago
I do yoga and stretch to help myself with my trauma. It helps me feel more in control of my body and take moments to focus on something. Even unconventional exercise like Just Dance not only helps with my pain (I have chronic pain), but also just to feel more free. Even just walking or standing can help. Do a workout that's right for you, it can help you feel more in control and focused with more energy.
River Davis 3 years ago
Addition: Another fantastic thing is to drink water regularly. It's helped so much with my energy and I often get depressed from dehydration. I always make sure there's a cold water in the fridge and will put a water in the freezer a few hours before bed so it'll be cold throughout the night in case I'm unable to sleep. It's helped me so so so much. Obviously it's not some cure, but helping your physical health can help you tackle your mental health.
Load More Replies... Marilyn Russell 3 years ago
Yoga definitely helps with anxiety and depression. It helps you sleep better and have less headaches. Wish I’d known that sooner. Also it lowers blood pressure better than cardio. If you have anxiety, get an adrenal support supplement with ashwagandha. Takes about 2 weeks and then suddenly it’s like night and day - no more whirling thoughts.
Lizzie Silver 3 years ago
I think you'll probably never find a piece of advice that works for absolutely everyone, so just quit being bitter online and let people find out whether something works for them or not by themselves
Load More Replies... #31
Eating more healthily.
Edited: Getting a lot of questions about how I did it. Here's some suggestions with the reminder that this works for me, may not work for you. If you REALLY are serious about losing weight, consult a doctor and/or nutritionist.
1) I was a carb fiend. Pasta, rice, bread, if it had a carb, I wanted fourth servings of it. Sugar is a carb too. So I started watching how many carbs I consumed a day. It shocked me. So now I'm a lot more aware of how many carbs I eat.
2) Building on number 1, serving sizes. To me, an open container of any size was a single serving. I pay attention to how much I'm supposed to eat. For snacks, I'm addicted to SmartFood. You can order a bunch of them in single serving sizes.
3) Vegetables. I always ate veggies, now I eat more. What used to be two thirds potatoes or pasta or rice with a meal is now two thirds vegetables.
4) Cut back on meat. We usually go meatless for dinner at least twice a week. I hardly eat it at breakfast and lunch is about 50/50. I'd say 90% of the meat we do eat is chicken or fish.
5) I have always LOVED to cook but now I'm really stretching my wings and trying things I wouldn't do before. If you don't know how to cook, LEARN. Alton Brown or Ina Garten are great starting places. Don't be intimidated by it, you're not working for Gordon Ramsay, you're just feeding yourself. Learn spices. Steaming veggies sucks. Roast that s**t. Stir fry that s**t. Eat it raw. Anything but steaming. Except boiling, that's worse.
6) Bring your lunch to work. If you eat breakfast at work, bring that too. Same with snacks unless you can get healthy ones there.
7) Don't beat yourself up if you have a cheeseburger. You ARE going to fail. I fail all the time. Every day is a new start.
8) We only eat out or order out once a week.
9) Water. More than you think. Learn to love to pee.
10) I can't do this right now because I broke my foot but a walk after every meal helps with your blood sugar. Ten minutes after breakfast and lunch, a half hour after dinner.
11) All things in moderation. You can have butter or cheese or fried foods, just not every meal. And keep to what you're supposed to eat, it's a lot smaller than you think.
Anyway, that's some of the stuff that *I* personally did. It worked for me, it may not work for you. I'm not a dietician, just a dude who wanted to lose some weight.
Linda van der Pal 3 years ago
Don't consider eating a cheese burger as a failure! Just make it a very deliberate, rare choice. If you only have unhealthy food a couple of times a year, there's nothing wrong with it!
Freya the Wanderer 3 years ago
The occasional unhealthful pig-out is just fine.
Load More Replies... Beverly Hasegawa 3 years ago
I hate when people use the term "s**t" to refer to food. You won't do that if you really respect what you're eating.
Lyone Fein 3 years ago
Wow. Reading this list makes me realize that alot of people's diets are pretty bad. This person eats a huge amount of meat, and they are still cutting back! In our house, we have fish a couple times a week, chicken maybe once a month, red meat about 4 times a year. Most of our protein comes from legumes and dairy.. .. And we have huge amounts of veggies every day. Steamed. Because we can taste the actual vegetable this way. Once you stop eating meat and sugar, your taste buds become much more sensitive.
Kel_how 3 years ago
Steamed veggies can be good! It depends on the vegetables and seasoning, definitely. I like broccoli and carrots with a little salt and pepper steamed. And if you only have 10 minutes to get dinner on the table instead of 45 minutes, steaming is the better option. Roasted veggies are the bomb, though!
WordWeaver 3 years ago
Excellent advice. I have found Keto very good at lowering my weight and helping me control my blood sugar. And, yes, don't be too fanatic about it. Sometimes you just can't avoid carbs.
Jon Clingenpeel 3 years ago
Number 9 is my favorite:) Yes, you’ll learn to get up from your desk or whatever you’re doing maybe every 2 hours to pee. Just try to get the timing down so it doesn’t distrust your sleep
humdrum 3 years ago
Yes, roast the veggies! Boil/steam/microwave them for a bit first if you hate raw-ish food (this is good for brussels sprouts or beetroot for example). 7 oz is a serving. And remember: eating vegetables is more important than sticking to your low-fat diet, so if you have to add butter, oil, or bacon to make them palatable: do it. Don't forget the salt, either.
#32
Low impact cardio.
F**k I loved to run, but it destroyed my legs.
I can swim my little heart out :)
#33
I started flower gardening. Really relaxing, you will see results all summer, lots of sucesses and failures but failures bring improvements. And I listen to audible books while I'm at it sometimes. Especially great if you have a desk job.
Edit: It's so nice to know so many are enjoying gardening! I had no idea it would be a reddit thing.
GirlFriday 3 years ago
I love this. I plant a bee and butterfly garden every spring and love watching it flourish and seeing my tiny visitors until the fall. If I had more room, I would grow more veggies too. It is so soothing.
#34
When I stopped worrying about things I could not control. Completely eliminated my general anxiety. Still can’t speak in public, but a catastrophic climate disaster? Sometimes it be like that.
Anna Snorrepot 3 years ago
yes. I live in the here and now and whattadayaknow, my body is just made for that, it's an expert in it! And it likes to spend time with a kind person. Life is grand.
#35
I recently took up hand sewing. When I think of how many good pairs of jeans I've thrown away simply because the crotch ripped and all it would've took to fix them was a double threaded ladder stitch.
Anna Snorrepot 3 years ago
my sewing room is my relax room. Plus it's technical and precise work. Love it! ( I do technical and precise sewing but there are all kinds! Easy and fast gets you great clothes too. There are so many great fabrics and fits.)
#36
Hiring a cleaner. I grew up in a house where money was tight. Whenever we heard people talking about their maid or housekeeper, we always assumed they were super rich. I'm not rich. Very much middle class. But my wife and I both work full time and have a lot on our plates. We found a local person who has a small cleaning business. We keep up with day to day cleaning (dishes, laundry, immediate spills and messes, wiping things down, etc). Then once a month, a cleaner does a pass, focusing on dusting, deeper clean of the floors, bathrooms, etc. It's about the same cost as a date night and it does so much to help us stay on top of things.
WordWeaver 3 years ago
I hate housecleaning. Loved it when I had a cleaner. Stopped when one robbed me. But cost wise - so worth it (if they're honest!)
Anna Snorrepot 3 years ago
This. A cleaner added so much happiness to our life. Even if we have to do a house sweep before she comes, hiding cups and plates we want to re-use or a fragile piece of porcelain or sleeping clothes. Also always ashamed about toilets and bedrooms but that's normal life and I know she doesn't give a thought to it.
#37
Realizing that my school isn't hell and appreciating the amount of effort my teachers put into their jobs
#38
Just packed up and moved thousands of miles away. Left everything behind and just started over. Besides some debt, a suit case, and contacts for only the non-toxic people in my life, its been an extremely liberating experience. And looking back, nothing was really preventing me from doing it sooner, no real reasons at least, I just kept coming up with excuses not to do it until one day I couldn't think of one
#39
Start only doing things you really want to do. I always felt this pressure to please others by inconveniencing myself or putting myself in an uncomfortable position as to make someone else happy or not upset. F**k all that. It's ok to say no and not have to have anxiety coming up with an excuse. Do you really want to go out? Or is your friend pressuring you to go? Just say no and be firm. No excuses. Just be clear and firm. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying be an a*****e. My life has improved greatly. No more social anxiety. No more unwanted social pressure. Just doing whatever I truly want to do because it makes me happy.
John Kremm 3 years ago
My go to response is: No, thanks. I'm just not feelin' it. Nothing else, unless they ask again, then just say, 'Nah.'
#40
I’m fat. I’m always going to be fat and I’m ok with that. That being said, being active. I let my weight limit me. I now realize that no matter my size I need to keep moving. I love getting out and doing things. It makes me feel good especially not with thinness being a goal.
WordWeaver 3 years ago
My doctor got me try keto - and my feet have thanked me for it every day. It's also one of the reasons why I love swimming - you're weightless. I'm by no means slender but I'm the only one who cares. So, good for you accepting yourself as you are.
#41
Getting a WFH 40 hour a week job
I was working like 55 hours a week in a warehouse before. So much room for activities
EDIT: This blew up so anyone asking how I did it, there's a comment below explaining it in detail
#42
I stopped acting like a doormat. I used to think people walked all over me because I was such a nice person and people suck and take advantage of nice people. It turns out that people like equitable relationships, they like people who can set good boundaries and protect them, and they like people who can take a little push back. They don't want someone just doing nice stuff for them all the time. By trying to be the nice person all the time I was essentially just trying to manipulate people into liking me because I was useful to them. But this only attracts toxic people and narcissists.
#43
Flossing. (Actually, I use a water pick now.) Now my hygiene and cleaning visits are a breeze, and I haven't had a cavity in years!
Stephanie A Mutti 3 years ago
An electric spin toothbrush did this for me. Not even a humble brag, I get complimented by the dentist every time!
#44
Swapped TV in the evenings for reading. I've read 19 books since march and my mental health has improved drastically since then. Not sure if it's because of the reading but it's the biggest change I made.
WordWeaver 3 years ago
Considering the quality of most TV, it's an easy switch. I love reading, so I applaud your change. Plus I love the Internet for all the print content - that's why I actually registered with Bored Panda. Am enjoying it very much.
#45
A few things... ​ 1. Started taking walks after every meal that I could. For lunchbreaks at work, I eat something while walking. Walks have allowed me all kinds of time to think about stuff, decompress, and listen to podcasts. 2. If you're like me and you're really out of shape and haven't exercised in years... Put an exercise bike in front of your computer (bonus points for a recumbent one, they're more comfortable), and learn to play more games with a controller. Set small goals with the thing. Play monster hunter? Do a hunt while pedaling as fast as you can, then do a hunt sitting in a chair, then switch back. It's difficult to describe how exhilarating it is to do raiding in FFXIV, and clear a boss for the first time, while completely out of breath and sweating all over the place. It's a truly unique feeling, and I cannot recommend it enough. 3. Somebody already posted "stop arguing with random strangers on the internet," but really I can't stress this one enough. If you see a post on a social media site that you know is going to have controversial comments below it, try and force yourself to not read the comments, unless you are going there specifically to laugh. Life is too short to get mad at people whose opinions you can't change. 4. This one is kind of situational, so it might not work for everyone. I live only 1.5 miles from the local grocery store, and only 2.5 miles from the local mall. When gas prices started going up, I bought myself an insulated backpack and stopped driving for my shopping trips. 3 mile round trip for groceries, and 5 miles round trip for my walks to the mall. It's forced me to buy less garbage food that I shouldn't be eating, and seriously think before I spend money at the mall. The exercise is a bonus. 5. Bought myself a pair of SleepPhones and started listening to nonverbal asmr videos, ocean sounds, rain, anything that seemed relaxing. Used to take me hours to get to sleep, now I'm usually asleep within about 30 minutes of getting into bed. 6. I quit smoking cold turkey last year and while I don't feel very different, I have certainly found that i don't get as winded from basic exercises as i did before.
Izzy Curer 3 years ago
Backpacking your groceries home. Tell me you don't have pets without telling me you don't have pets
#46
Getting divorced, 10 out of 10, would recommend
#47
Setting rules for myself. After covid started, I spent a year drinking and eating pizza every other day and at that time I thought why shouldn't I keep doing it if I enjoy it. You can die anytime so you should make the most out of what little time you have right?. The problem being (apart from health consequences) that it quickly becomes not enjoyable and I realize now how miserable I was during that time Most things are only fun when you do them occasionally. Sounds obvious I know but it was not obvious for my dumbass. Now I have set rules for myself that I can only drink on sunday's and only eat junk food once a month and its so much more rewarding and fun
WordWeaver 3 years ago
Glad you realised that a broader diet is better for your health. Raw and slow foods.
#48
Learned Spanish. Now I have a lot of amazing latino friends and I got a lot of great gigs and opportunities because of it.
Gosiaatje 3 years ago
Yes! I absolutely love the process of language learning. I've been learning Spanish almost daily for the last 3,5 years 🥰 It's so amazing that you're learning Welsh! I hear it's a hard one... Best of luck!
Load More Replies... Saeyoul Akiyune 1 year ago
I took Spanish in school but forgot most of it, sadly, as there wasn't much use for me speaking it; I didn't have or know a lot of those who spoke the language, so it didn't stick with me. However, to still connect to your little story so I'm not wasting space, I'm learning Korean for my boyfriend and to watch dramas/listen to music without needing translations :)
#49
Stop drinking and doing so much drugs. I was a terrible alcoholic with first signs of cirrhosis and puking qnd losing enough blood to need a transfusion so kind of a wake up call that still took years to actually stop altogether.
WordWeaver 3 years ago
So glad to know you have chosen a healthier pathway. All the best for a better life!
#50
Moved to Washington. It literally turned my life around. I was a cab driver in Arizona. And had been barely hanging on when 2008 recession hit. There were more drivers than cabs to lease. There was a lottery every day at work to see if you even got a car. My luck sucked. I ended up getting two evictions on my credit in under a year cause I just couldn't pay rent. Not even living paycheck to paycheck, but day to day... A friend let me stay at his place in Georgia to see if I could do better there. Sadly it was almost worse than Arizona. I decided to ask my parents if I could stay with them and try Washington. NIGHT AND F*****G DAY. I started doing office jobs for like $15/hr. Then something happened. Since I was staying at parents and kicking them some of my income for "rent" though it was low dollar, I was able to save money. When a job that I had gotten at $17/hr layer off the entire department I put my foot down. Unemployment and savings allowed me to say F**k Off to the "I need a job NOW" opportunities. You know the ones, the ones with s**t bosses and s**t businesses just destroying the workforce. Then it happened. I found my unicorn. The company was impressed at my resume due to my ability to find a problem and create a solution to fix said problem. I got hired as a data coordinator. $19/hr. VERY shortly into that position the manager noticed my excel skills and hired me full time from the temp service well before contract was up. $22/hr. After a year he promoted me and moved me to a higher skill position. I was given a raise to 56k/yr. I quickly proved my mettle in this new environment and earned promotion to Business Analyst 1. I was bumped up to 69k/yr. Just last October in mid pandemic I asked for a raise after proving myself even more in that new role. My boss agreed and went to bat for me. Came back (after a bit of delay) with a raise to 76k/yr. With a cost of living bump in March of 22 that has put me at 79k/yr. In 14 years I went to living day to day pay, to having a fully funded emergency fund, I bought a condo May 2021, and have a new car that is almost paid off. My credit has skyrocketed to 769 and climbing. I have about $30,000 worth of credit cards with 0 balances, and a 401K that while stunted from years of not having...is getting there. The absolute biggest change is that I do not have to worry about a big bill. I don't have to put off any payments as my savings and income can handle fluctuations. It has done wonders for my life and wellbeing. If I had done this YEARS earlier, just think where I might have been.
WordWeaver 3 years ago
True - it's what we don't know that we don't know that can hold us back. Plus fear of change and the unknown. All the best!
#51
Improved my finances and my health. Tucking away money for retirement was something I should have started in my early 20's. I'm in my early 50's now and will probalby end up retiring to Costa Rica or Portugal to make the most out of my money. I also had a deviated septum fixed when I was in my late 40's and man, I wish I'd fixed that sooner. You forget how important breathing through your nose is until you go to the dentist, or sleep, or eat, or exercise. HUGE inconvenience for a week or so while it healed for a gigantic upgrade in my lifestyle.
GirlFriday 3 years ago
I started this about a year ago when my partner moved in with me because he does this: budget $10 for lunch everyday. Every day that you don't spend the $10 (most days, I bring my lunch so this works out well for me), transfer that money into a savings account. See how much you have at the end of the month. Since doing this, I am much more inclined to bring lunch, eat healthier, spend my extra time walking, etc.
#52
I begrudgingly started lifting weights when I was 30 due to some back pain that caused me to barely be able to get out of my office chair, I forced myself to go for a few weeks, then I started looking forward to going to the gym, then after a while I became a total gym rat meat head. I wish I had started lifting when I was a teenager, not only did it cure my back pain but I lost weight, look and feel much better and the doctor says all my health indicators are spot on now as I am in my 40s and in addition it's like a hobby for me now that I tinker with and socialize with other people who are into the same thing etc
#53
Understanding that just because they’re your parents, doesn’t mean they get a mandatory place in your life. Although it’s not what I wanted, walking away was the best thing for my mental health. Now that my father has passed, I seldom think of my mother and brother.
WordWeaver 3 years ago
They had the chance to show unconditional love and chose ... not. You made the right choice.
Anna Snorrepot 3 years ago
me too, but dad is still much in my head. To my chagrin! I'm still so angry and so indignant… I wish it would pass, it's such a waste of energy.
#54
My social skills. Looking back, I could have made some awesome new friends. But nope, my anxiety driven a*s had to be difficult back then.
#55
Got a bidet toilet attachment. There’s nothing like having a clean a*s all the time.
Andrew Gibb 3 years ago
water guns on all toilets would help everyone and save on the need for smearing poop all over your a*s
Vervelende Panda 3 years ago
If your hands had s**t on them, would you wipe and get on with your day?
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#56
I did fencing in college and after that I just couldn't make it work with my school and work schedule. Fifteen years later, I found a club and started doing it again. I hate every other sport and exercising just to exercise is unpleasant and boring; this is the only one for me and I needed something to make me active.
#57
Hiring a sleep coach to help figure out why my kids wouldn't sleep. She didn't suggest anything radical, just a bunch of little changes. But she held us accountable several times a day for two weeks through a shared spreadsheet, and the improvement was incredible. Kids slept way longer, were happier, and better behaved. Spouse and I gained hours together in the evenings, had a way calmer home, and also got to sleep more. We hesitated for months because of sticker shock, but it ended up being a huge investment in our quality of life.
#58
Playing Minecraft. I'm a fully grown adult that used to think it was really stupid. But then my friend set up a server, and now we all play together. It's a wonderful creative outlet that isn't anywhere near as stressful as some games can be.
Vorknkx 3 years ago
Taken in moderation, gaming can be a pretty nice form of therapy and help reduce stress, anxiety, etc. But I must really stress the moderation thing - without it, it can do more harm than good.
Autistic apricot 3 years ago
Yes, me and my sister have a time limit on the switch, and when it’s gone it’s gone and we play outside instead
Load More Replies... #59
Getting good earplugs for sleeping.
Torsten 3 years ago
My wife got custom made ones from a local hearing aid shop. (Why? Glad you asked. I'm snoring like a saw mill.)
Load More Replies... #60
Stop adding sugar to my coffee
WordWeaver 3 years ago
Cut sugar out 100% - your pancreas will thank you! Use stevia if you must have sweetness.
#62
Using a cup instead of tampons and pads. I got really heavy periods since i started and it was ALWAYS a pain for me to deal with just how often i had to change them and how much i had to use. I could have a super tampon, night pad and toilet paper and still bleed thro em all in a few hours. Got a cup and while annoying to use, it gets so much more blood than the others and i dont have to worry about TSS as much. Also sleeping soundly for more than 8 hours a night was a bleesing for me.
abby smink 3 years ago
Sounds like there could be a medical problem here that should be addressed, perhaps fibroids. That much bleeding isn't healthy, I've been there, and I'm finally getting a hysterectomy
Anna Snorrepot 3 years ago
I was glad to use cotton pads, instead of the plastic coated main brands. Felt so much better! But I didn't bleed as much as you do. Have a hearty meal between periods, you've got to resupply on all those minerals and building blocks you loose. :)
#64
Getting my deviated septum fixed. Too many broken noses when I was younger eventually lead to me as an adult barely able to breath out of my nose. Sleep was horrible for me. I basically couldn't. I got to the point where I was a zombie sleep walking through the day. One operation and suddenly I could breath. Even with the bandages still on, I could breath better than before. And I could actually sleep. After the first night I realized I had experienced a dream while sleeping - something I hadn't had in years. I should have done that years earlier.
#66
I learned self-defense, real street fighting skills, down and dirty. It did not make me feel invincible, but it gave me a framework to access risk more accurately and gave me situational awareness. Best thing I ever did.
WordWeaver 3 years ago
Has to have given you greater confidence. I bet you stand differently, approach new situations and people differently, all of which other people will note subconsciously so they treat you differently. Hopefully better.
#67
I just started this one! I wake up 10 minutes sooner. That's it. 10 minutes. But it has motivated to move my butt early which let's me get a few quick things done before I leave for work and my husband appreciates coming home and not having to do *all* of the meal prep (since he's home before me and cooks dinner every night). It feels good!
WordWeaver 3 years ago
I used to get up an hour before I had to leave for work just so I could spend time in my garden. Like you, it set me up for the day.
GirlFriday 3 years ago
I get up about 1.5 hours before I have to leave the house in the morning and do minor household chores. Then I come home to a pretty clean house and I can relax all evening.
#68
Finally talking with my (then-new) family doctor about my misuse of decongestant nose spray. He told me it's a common issue and that there is help. 1.5 years of tapering off and two surgeries later I used bad nosespray for the final time. I could kick myself for not talking about it for more than twenty years. Edit: I am working my way through the comments and questions, I posted it before going to bed and didn't expect much reaction, so: The addiction's name is Rhinitis medicamentosa. So it's not an addiction like alcohol (in the way there's a "reward" system in your brain), but it's a self sustaining process - you have an infection and take nose spray. If you do it more than a few days the reason why you took it at first is gone, but these sprays mean the nose clogs again. So you take nose spray against nose spray, which got worse and worse over the years. Many asked which spray I took: I largely gave up talking about any names in this regard - by definition of stereotype every redditor except me is from the US, so your stuff has different names in the store than the German stuff I took. The nose spray I used is sold in Germany as Nasic which has xylometazoline as main active agent. Some others asked about the surgeries, so here is more about the process: My new family doctor sent me to an ENT for help. He mentioned that next to the effect of the addiction, there's often a background to it. Turned out my concha were enlarged and my septum deviated. I must have broken my nose once, the ENT insisted ot must have happened although I didn't know it. Maybe when I fell off my bike as toddler or so. Both limited how much air could pass and made it even more prone to clogging, which was boosted by the misuse of Nasic. The concha were cauterized (so a small intervention, about 30 minutes + a few days sick leave), the septum deviation was corrected via full anaesthesia surgery in the hospital by the ENT + 2 weeks sick leave The process took so long as the ENT started with tapering off by flooding the nose spray with hayfever and sea salt ones, (effect: Reducing bad nose spray from 5x a day to 1-2x), then cauterizing after which the nose needed to heal (reducing it to 0-1x per day) before the surgery. As the septum deviation is done in hospital I needed to wait a few weeks until I could do it, and afterwards the nose needs some weeks to heal again.
Impetus 3 years ago
The nasal spray in the US that causes this problem is usually oxymetazoline. Brand name that's most well known is Afrin. It's a very common problem here, especially with healthcare being the dumpster fire that it is in the US. People just cobble together whatever over the counter stuff they can to try and make it to work.
Anna Snorrepot 3 years ago
so good of you to talk to your doctor! Glad you have a good doctor too, one that will just help you solve a problem instead of judging you :)
#69
Moving out of my home country.
Kay Phillips 3 years ago
I understand this so well. I also HATE the expression "home country" - it's not my home; it hasn't been in almost 10 years. And f**k that place.
#70
Taking birth control to clear my skin. I wish I'd started popping those pills at age 11 and avoided 9 miserable years with acne
Impetus 3 years ago
If hormones are contributing to the acne, yes. So for most young women with acne. There are even certain ones that are more likely to help with it. Birth control can also preserve fertility in patients with problems like endometriosis, especially when taken without a week off so you don't have a period, because it prevents scarring on the reproductive organs. Birth control can reduce anxiety and depression in people who are sensitive to the hormonal changes that come with the monthly cycle. And of course, it can reduce pain with menstruation, but that one is a lot more well known.
Load More Replies... #71
Working out almost everyday, even if it's only for an hour. Smiling at my reflection everytime I look in the bathroom or bedroom mirror.
#72
Accepting adversity as a part of any process. We may get too overwhelmed from time to time when adversity hits, but if you take a peak at the future, it all starts to feel smaller and make more sense.
Jenny Barton 3 years ago
Accepting not only that nothing worth having comes without some challenges, but then also taking those challenges a day at a time.
What do you think ?
Izzy Curer 3 years ago (edited)
For me, I started eating sugar. I'm not talking about nutritious complex carbs, I mean actual junkfood sugar. I'd been told it was evil for so long that I didn't understand that you actually sort of need it to survive. Or at least I do. I may have undiagnosed hypoglycemia, but after I stopped being afraid of it, I started having energy and was able to gain weight for the first time in my life. My mental capacity and mood have improved, as well. My whole life, I thought I was eating healthy by eating whole foods and vegetables and avoiding sugar, but I could never figure out why I felt so sick all the time. It was so frustrating. Doctors were no help. It still blows my mind that sugar can actually be healthy. It just flies in the face of everything I've ever been told.
Peter Smith 3 years ago
A month ago I stopped reading the news. I realised I had become so depressed from reading about all the endless crises. I stopped looking at any news website, and it has done my mental health the world of good.
Marcus Lynch 3 years ago
Agreed. Turned off all notifications from news apps and the doom and gloom feed has stopped. Huge change to overall daily attitude.
Load More Replies...
Laya Smith 3 years ago
I would add learning to delegate. I used to feel the need to do everything myself because I grew up poor and that is how it's done. I'm finally learning to pay people for services by respecting that my time is valuable. So I don't more my own lawn anymore or manage my businesses social media, and I am so happy.
Hannah Finley 3 years ago
Oh God yes! I pay someone to deep clean my house twice a month and it's soooo nice. Then I don't feel shitty about my house and can spend my free time doing things I want to do
Load More Replies...
Bethany Heller 3 years ago
Exercise was in a lot of these. Any have ideas for how to not hate it so much? I get that it's beneficial, but ugh.
Marilyn Russell 3 years ago
Find something that works for you. Try a new class. When I was younger I took kickboxing - loved it! I used to think I hated yoga but now I love Yin yoga. Lots of videos on YouTube I can do at home. I’m thinking about taking adult tap lessons in the fall. Or how about you just put on your favourite music and dance how your body feels like moving? Most days I also walk my dog down my country road which is also relaxing and takes about 40 minutes. I guarantee once you get going, your body will want more because I didn’t want to move my body before Covid hit and then I lost my job so I thought better use this time to feel better.
Load More Replies... Vorknkx 3 years ago
Reducing time spent on Facebook by 90%. Nowadays I just pop up once every 2-3 weeks to take a quick look and/or answer some message, and that's it. So much better :)
Hannah Finley 3 years ago
I ditched FB, but I do the same limit with insta and tiktok. I delete the app and redoelwnload it about (I hope I can keep it up) 2 times a month. It helps SO FRICKIN MUCH with my self confidence and creativity
Load More Replies... 
Evily 3 years ago
I’ve started to request all the medical tests that are done and try and understand them myself, and the letters doctors are writing to the GP. It’s mind blowing how poor the interpretations have been and the utter garble some doctors write without taking any responsibility for anything. I’m trying to break a cycle of life-threatening co-dependence this way.
Owen Aeva 3 years ago
I like to cook and also like to play on our Wii. So I've been finding cooking projects that allow for periods of simmering and periods of tinkering (which is my favorite way to cook) and I'll alternate between that and playing a Wii game that I can easily pause for a period of time. That way I'm not spending too much time on one thing and I'm moving around too. I noticed the improvement when I walked around a bunch with friends when the temps that were high and I didn't ever feel awful.
Izzy Curer 3 years ago (edited)
For me, I started eating sugar. I'm not talking about nutritious complex carbs, I mean actual junkfood sugar. I'd been told it was evil for so long that I didn't understand that you actually sort of need it to survive. Or at least I do. I may have undiagnosed hypoglycemia, but after I stopped being afraid of it, I started having energy and was able to gain weight for the first time in my life. My mental capacity and mood have improved, as well. My whole life, I thought I was eating healthy by eating whole foods and vegetables and avoiding sugar, but I could never figure out why I felt so sick all the time. It was so frustrating. Doctors were no help. It still blows my mind that sugar can actually be healthy. It just flies in the face of everything I've ever been told.
Peter Smith 3 years ago
A month ago I stopped reading the news. I realised I had become so depressed from reading about all the endless crises. I stopped looking at any news website, and it has done my mental health the world of good.
Marcus Lynch 3 years ago
Agreed. Turned off all notifications from news apps and the doom and gloom feed has stopped. Huge change to overall daily attitude.
Load More Replies... Laya Smith 3 years ago
I would add learning to delegate. I used to feel the need to do everything myself because I grew up poor and that is how it's done. I'm finally learning to pay people for services by respecting that my time is valuable. So I don't more my own lawn anymore or manage my businesses social media, and I am so happy.
Hannah Finley 3 years ago
Oh God yes! I pay someone to deep clean my house twice a month and it's soooo nice. Then I don't feel shitty about my house and can spend my free time doing things I want to do
Load More Replies... Bethany Heller 3 years ago
Exercise was in a lot of these. Any have ideas for how to not hate it so much? I get that it's beneficial, but ugh.
Marilyn Russell 3 years ago
Find something that works for you. Try a new class. When I was younger I took kickboxing - loved it! I used to think I hated yoga but now I love Yin yoga. Lots of videos on YouTube I can do at home. I’m thinking about taking adult tap lessons in the fall. Or how about you just put on your favourite music and dance how your body feels like moving? Most days I also walk my dog down my country road which is also relaxing and takes about 40 minutes. I guarantee once you get going, your body will want more because I didn’t want to move my body before Covid hit and then I lost my job so I thought better use this time to feel better.
Load More Replies... Vorknkx 3 years ago
Reducing time spent on Facebook by 90%. Nowadays I just pop up once every 2-3 weeks to take a quick look and/or answer some message, and that's it. So much better :)
Hannah Finley 3 years ago
I ditched FB, but I do the same limit with insta and tiktok. I delete the app and redoelwnload it about (I hope I can keep it up) 2 times a month. It helps SO FRICKIN MUCH with my self confidence and creativity
Load More Replies... Evily 3 years ago
I’ve started to request all the medical tests that are done and try and understand them myself, and the letters doctors are writing to the GP. It’s mind blowing how poor the interpretations have been and the utter garble some doctors write without taking any responsibility for anything. I’m trying to break a cycle of life-threatening co-dependence this way.
Owen Aeva 3 years ago
I like to cook and also like to play on our Wii. So I've been finding cooking projects that allow for periods of simmering and periods of tinkering (which is my favorite way to cook) and I'll alternate between that and playing a Wii game that I can easily pause for a period of time. That way I'm not spending too much time on one thing and I'm moving around too. I noticed the improvement when I walked around a bunch with friends when the temps that were high and I didn't ever feel awful.
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