Here’s the deal. We ALL have hard days. When I have a hard day, my brain looks like this:
“Meh, what’s going on with me today? I’d love to just crawl back under the covers. Wonder what’s going on on Instagram. Do I have to do anything today? I don’t want to take a shower, blech, getting wet sounds horrible. Yuck, my hair looks awful. What could I do to make it look better? I’ll get on Pinterest to see. I’m bored and restless at the same time. Maybe we should move. Maybe I need a new project? What am I even doing with my life? Everything is AWFUL.”
Normally, when I start in on this internal monologue, it means that I’m a little aimless and directionless. I try to “start a second day”, which basically just means “wake up on the right side of the bed”. ;) I stop what I’m doing, take a deep breath (did you know that really taking a deep breath starts with the exhale?), and then sit and read something on paper (not on my phone!) for 10 minutes. This restarts my day on a more positive note.
Here’s some resources to get you started:
Everything Is Awful and I’m Not Okay: questions to ask before giving up: Now, this is the FIRST and GO TO thing I read when I’m feeling off course. It’s mostly just a self-care list…but it’s stuff I don’t think about being related to my mood or affect. Things like…drinking waters, getting physical touch, etc. Go read this NOW if you’re feeling in a funk today.
Essentialism: This is the book I think back to when I’m tempted to say “yes” to too many things. If you are the Busy Bee who is always buzzing around and always exhausted–this book is for you!
Yes, Please: This is just a silly, light read. Amy is funny. Best quote: “Good for her. Not for me.” I repeat that phrase whenever comparison and envy (the start of a lot of my moody days) creep in.
The Power of Habit: This is a pop-science sort of book. It’s a mix of research and storytelling. It’s compelling, enthralling, and really gives you hope that you can make a change in your habits and routines.
Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up: This is the kookiest book I’ve read in awhile. The author Marie Kondo speaks about her possessions have people-like emotions. It’s weird. But, it’s also been a big ah-ha moment for a lot of my friends. The big idea is only keep the stuff that “gives you joy”. You should read this if you’re feeling overrun with stuff.
