Last updated on January 22, 2024
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If there has ever been a time that we all need to lighten up a bit – it might be now! Listen, I understand that life is a little crazy. Things aren’t going swimmingly for a lot of us. It’s easy to get down on ourselves. The thing is, if we aren’t careful, we could lose the spark of happiness we do have. That’s why it is important to lighten up a bit. We need to stop being so hard on ourselves while wallowing in negativity. Let’s all take a deep breath, exhale and try to lighten up a bit. We can start with these nine tips:
- Embrace the Concept of “Perfect Enough”
It feels great when something we are working on comes out just perfect, but it isn’t the end of the world if it is just acceptable. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in making sure every detail is perfect, we don’t take the time to enjoy the journey. You should take the time to appreciate the journey even if everything isn’t perfect.
- Avoid Toxic People
Certain people in our lives bring us down. We can’t always avoid these people, but why wouldn’t we limit our exposure to them? It’s going to be very hard to lighten up if you spend a lot of time with people who sap your joy.
- Find Healthy Ways to Release Tension
One of the best ways to lighten up is to release some of your built-up tension. Maybe you could get a massage. If that isn’t your style, maybe you could blow off some steam working out. The choice is ultimately yours; make sure you engage in tension-relieving activities regularly.
- Look at the Funny Side
Sometimes even the stressful events in our lives have a funny side. Learning to find this humorous side is a great way to lighten up. When you can laugh at yourself, you will find it easier to laugh in general.
- Spend More Time Outdoors
A nice leisurely walk on a warm sunny day is one of the best ways to lift your spirits. No matter what’s weighing on your mind, this time outdoors and in nature has a way of naturally lifting our mood and letting us lighten up a bit.
- Act Like a Kid Again
Have you ever watched a kid playing and felt a pang of jealousy that they find so much joy in such simple activities? Why not join them? Act a little silly now and then. Don’t be afraid to get dirty. Laugh at something stupid. You’ll find taking yourself less seriously is one of the best ways to lighten up.
- Spend Time with Fun People
We already know we shouldn’t be spending a lot of time with toxic people. The inverse is true as well. We should try to spend more time with our fun friends. The friends that lift you and keep you smiling. It is easy to lighten up when you are having fun.
- Help Someone in Need
This might seem like a weird suggestion, but hear me out. Helping someone in need will boost your mood in general. It is also a helpful reminder that everyone has problems, and maybe yours aren’t that major in the grand scheme of things.
- Stay in the Present
A major reason people can’t lighten up is that they are reliving a bad memory or catastrophizing about some upcoming event. Strive to stay in the moment more often. Appreciate the here and now. If you get too caught up living in the past/future, you’ll never lighten up.
ACTIONABLE STEPS
| 1 Who Stresses You Out? | 2 Spoil Yourself | 3 Reach out to a Fun Friend |
| Is there anyone in your life that makes it impossible for you to lighten up around? Take some time to figure out how (or if) you can limit your time with them. | Hey, life is tough, so take some time to pamper yourself. Whether it’s a comforting meal, a night out, or a massage, put yourself first for once. | If you have one of those friends that makes you laugh just by the way they answer the phone – reach out to them. Some time together will brighten both of your moods. |
