3 Things I Gave Up That Greatly Elevated My Life
“Each day provides its own gifts.” — Marcus Aurelius
“Each day provides its own gifts.” — Marcus Aurelius
I had a crazy time last week & I decided to go for a short walk yesterday. If you know me, I like to walk early in the evening after I am done with the day. It is like a little me time when I am with my thoughts without any distraction.
I am not anti-social but I enjoy solitude, exercise, and deep thinking. Also, there is something magical about evenings — the breeze feels around your face, and the surrounding stillness expands your sense of being, the illuminating sky color. Strangely, I saw no one during my short walk yesterday.
After walking around my apartment block, through the neighborhood on the way home, the many living room windows pass reveal large, flat-screen televisions glowing on the walls. I like to see what other people are watching. I mostly see a glimpse of some sport or some TV show running. I come to my apartment, it is as I left before my walk.
I make my way to fix my dinner and reflect on my day.
In the last two years, I made many changes in my lifestyle, a few worked, some did not, but these are the three things that were very difficult to start with and took me the longest to attain. I still slip once in a while. But I like to think I am getting better. Have you tried any of these, do share your story.
Consuming TV, News, or Social Media
I used to watch TV to get the latest updates on anything and what it means to all of us. But I realized it has increased my anxiety with much fake news doing its rounds on various social media profiles. But by the end of 2021, I deleted my Facebook, unsubscribed from different news apps, and stopped the google notification.
Yeah, it left me a bit behind on current affairs and breaking news however, I kept myself active for the causes I am passionate about and deeply connected with.
If you are planning to reduce your TV consumption, do this with your free time:
- Read books
- Exercise
- Go for a walk
- Revive your good old habits like gardening, painting, singing, playing sports, writing, etc.
Drinking Alcohol
Until last year, beer and vodka shots were my go-to alcoholic beverages, and I used to go out almost every other day to socialize with friends and co-workers. I enjoyed that part and loved going out.
But with time, as I started moving forward with healthy and creating sustainable habits, I stopped drinking alcohol. Fortunately, it was not hard for me to quit. I didn’t suffer from cravings. I still drink one glass of wine occasionally. The last time I drank was during the Christmas holidays.
The upshot of stopping drinking alcohol is — that I sleep better, gain focus, and become insanely productive with my writing. I stopped waiting to accomplish goals and dove in and got them done.
Drinking is a personal choice, and when done responsibly, it can be a wonderful escape and way to relax. But choosing not to drink brings amazing benefits, and for me, it has been life-changing positively.
“Say something positive, and you’ll see something positive.” — Jim Thompson
Eliminating Negativity
However, in the last couple of years, I realized the importance of family and friends and why you should make an effort to stay connected. With time I realized you don’t always get the things we want in life. It is okay to ask for help when you need it. I started looking out for help and started working inwards — to build strength and emotional intelligence.
With available time and mental energy, I was able to write my first book. I am going to start writing my next book very soon.
Lastly,
As a result, I am healthier, happier, and accomplish more in my personal, professional, and creative life. I am not saying you have to do the same as mine.
Let’s think for a second. What could you give up that would greatly improve your life? Letting go of unhealthy habits can lead to new dreams, a happier, and healthier life.
Most of the time, deep down, you know something is bad for you. The things holding you back. And the longer you refuse to make changes, the more we feel trapped.
Give up the things that are holding you back, your dreams are waiting.
Read some more on my life-lessons:
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