simple ways to...

CHANGE YOUR ROUTINE, AND BOOST YOUR MOOD AND MOTIVATION

THERE’S a lot to be said for a good, solid routine. There’s comfort in order and predictability, particularly when life throws us a curve ball or puts us through the wringer.

However, there’s also a lot to be said for breaking routine. Sometimes, what you need is to drum up some changes.

Try stepping away from everyday tasks for a spell and make a couple of small changes in your daily routine to reawaken your senses and get those creative juices flowing.

“It’s very easy to get stuck in a rut by doing the ‘familiar’. This can sap your energy and make life seem stale. Making the choice to shift out of your normal comfort zone and try new things will reinvigorate your senses, broaden your outlook, and boost your confidence and creativity,” says David James Lees, talking therapist and coach at Wu Wei Wisdom. “Seemingly insurmountable tasks or goals can also be tackled though small step changes.”

If you do feel your mood is a bit lacklustre, or you’re stuck in a negative mindset, the distraction of some new surroundings or experiences might really help shift those patterns.

Why not try:

HAVING A WEEKEND OF FIRSTS

GOT a free weekend, or even just a few hours to fill? Do something 100% new to you. It doesn’t need to be expensive; how about checking out some woodlands or a park you’ve never been to? It might lead to greater discoveries down the line, a new hobby – or just make your weekend a bit more rewarding.

TAKING A DIFFERENT ROUTE HOME

MIXING it up every few days might sound like the simplest thing ever, but it gives your mind a boost and makes your routine a lot more interesting.

COOKING SOMETHING COMPLETELY OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE

THERE’S so much to gain from experimenting with a new recipe. It’s a little bit thrilling, and focussing on the recipe for an hour or two is an easy way to de-stress and be present in the moment – and of course, it’s a great excuse for sitting down with a friend or loved one and sharing something special (or a laugh if it all goes wrong).