MAKE EACH DAY COUNT!

 

My family & I had a horrible start to the week as, on Monday morning, we were woken up abruptly to our dog Dora barking like mad and black smoke pouring in through our windows. We rushed downstairs to find our next door neighbours house was on fire & there were fire engines, ambulances, police & paramedics everywhere. Very sadly our lovely neighbour didn’t make it & died from smoke inhalation which has devastated us all as he was the nicest man who would do anything for anyone.

It really does put life into perspective and how we really do have to make the most of every day we are given.

I turn 50 this year and, whilst many people struggle with ageing, I see it as a privilege as I know many people, including one of my best friends in the world, who died very young, would have loved to be the age I am now.

I’m sorry if this is all a bit depressing but life’s tragedies always make us assess our own lives & it really made me re think about making every day count.

Of course life, work, every day routines take over, that’s normal. However, a little life check now & again is vital to ensure you’re making each day count as tomorrow isn’t promised.

 

How to make each day count!

1.    Practice Gratitude – this is a personal thing but practicing gratitude daily, however you choose to do it, really makes you appreciate all you have. I love my 6 minute a day journal which I write in every morning & evening. As it’s only 6 minutes a day it’s easy to maintain & is now a habit I embrace every day of my life.

2.    Wake up earlier – of course we all relish the odd lie in but, on a day to day basis, waking up early is vital to a fulfilling life as so much can be done in a morning when your mind is bright & vital. Early mornings are quiet, peaceful, productive & energising!

3.    Eat well – Yes of course life is far too short to never give yourself a treat now & again, but if you eat well on a regular basis you’ll be fitter & healthier plus the treats seem even better.

4.    Exercise – the thought of exercise is always worse than the actual practice but nothing feels better than when you’ve motivated yourself in a good workout.

5.    Accomplish one big task – We all have ‘to do’ lists as long as our arms but often, the longer it gets the less you often accomplish. By breaking it down & just trying to tackle one big task each day makes you feel accomplished!

6.    Do one thing you love – Once all the every day mundane tasks are completed, its so important to do something you love each day such as a hobby, meeting friends for lunch, going to the cinema etc to put your life into balance.

7.    Be present with others – listen to other people & give them your undivided attention. By putting your phone down, really listening to people and taking in your surroundings helps you learn so much and appreciate your life every day.

8.    Rest – We all lead crazy, busy lives but not resting effectively can lead to burn-out!

9.    Elevate your every day – My surroundings really affect my mood so I always ensure my bedding is nice, I use my best crockery, I light my expensive candles and I never save anything for best!

10. Be kind – Perform random acts of kindness, give to someone in need, listen to a friend who's having a bad time. Small acts of kindness everyday can really make someone’s day and the world really needs more kindness.

11. Nurture your soul – Our lives are more than just flesh & blood, they are also mind, heart & soul so find time each day to feed your soul by embracing gratitude, laughter, hope & faith.

12. Reset – Tomorrow is another day filled with potential & opportunity. You want to begin this new day with a clean slate and a fresh start. Take 10 minutes each evening to clear the clutter, sort your to do list and refresh your home & mind for the next day. 'Future you tomorrow' will thank you for it!