There are plenty of bad habits out there, and as much as we try to avoid them, it’s not always easy to do. We fall into routines because they’re convenient, but not necessarily because they’re good for us. For example, I sit at a computer all day at work. My eyes feel strained and my body gets stiff. I end up with a few browser sessions open at a time with several tabs in each browser. Even though the clutter is on my computer screen rather than on my desk, it’s still overwhelming. I usually come to this realization when I have so many tabs open that they squish together and I can’t read them anymore. Sometimes all I want to do it shut it all off, go for a walk, and forget that the internet exists!
Of course the internet is a very useful tool for many things (like this blog). It wouldn’t be realistic for me to completely eliminate my computer and internet use. That’s why I’m setting achievable goals for myself each month. It’s a personal campaign for my health and happiness. Setting goals is something we all need to feel like we’re making progress instead of just spinning our wheels. Goals are what keep us going, even if the going gets rough. I’ve discovered a great way to start setting my own goals. It’s called 30 Days of Good on Good.is (you should check it out). It’s basically a list of all the things you should be doing to maintain a healthy and happy life. Each month has a theme, and each day a new challenge is posted. Last month, they focused on connecting with people in new and creative ways. Their focus this month is getting healthy.
Before I can even think about any other goals, my first goal should be to get more organized. This means keeping better track of my calendar(s), staying on top of household chores, and taking the time to check in with myself. I could go on an on about all the things I want to accomplish, but once I’ve got the organization goal underway, the next one I’m aiming for is to replace online time with outside time. Not only will it be good for my body, but it’s also mentally beneficial.
I spend so much time online at work that I want to make my weekends about being offline. I already don’t own a smartphone, so that’s a start. Here’s my top ten list of ways I can incorporate more outside time. Some of them I already do, and some of them I’d like to start doing.
1) Choose to walk or bike places rather than bus or metro
2) Find at least one outdoor activity for the weekend
3) Make sure to get outside at least once during work
4) Switch a happy hour for a physical activity
5) Go for runs/walks with friends to catch up rather than chatting online
6) Walk to the farmer’s market every Sunday
7) Go for a walk after dinner rather than watch tv
8 ) Eat lunch outside
9) Switch an indoor gym workout for one outside
10) Get a group of friends together for a charity run/walk
Now I want to hear from you! What goals are you working towards? How do you plan to get there?
