UCanMakeItIfYouTry – Make The Most of Every Day
TOP TIPS
The day-to-day struggle of getting up, going to work, coming home, and going to bed leaves many of us feeling depleted. Without making a conscious decision to make each day count, you will wake up in the same rut a year from now, wondering where the time went. It’s time to make the most of each day, so you don’t have to feel like life is passing you by.
1 – Wake Up 10 Minutes Earlier
One way to start the day off wrong is to wake up late and have to rush through your morning routine. Setting your alarm 10 minutes earlier gives you more time to prepare and eat a healthy breakfast or enjoy a leisurely sip on your morning beverage.
2 – Keep the Same Sleep Routine Every Day
You may find your Monday morning sluggish because of oversleeping on the weekend. Give your body its best chance at a better day by going to bed and waking up at the same time, even on weekends.
3 – Eat a Healthy Diet
Feed your body what it needs, and it will give you the energy and clarity to accomplish much during your day. Remember that food is fuel. The better the fuel, the better you will feel, and the better the day.
4 – Exercise Daily
Regular exercise provides your body with stress relief, clarity of mind, and energy. You can face almost anything that comes your way when you include 20 minutes a day of moderate exercise.
5 – Accomplish One Task Toward a Larger Goal
Experts encourage us to establish a goal and break it down into smaller steps. The problem is that we often stop there. Reach your goals quicker by tackling one step each day. Before you know it, you will have attained that goal.
6 – Make a Daily Big 3 List
If you could only complete three things today to feel accomplished, what would they be? Write them down. Next, set out to check them off your list. You can sit back at the end of the day and feel good.
7 – Take Regular Breaks
Breaks offer your body and mind a chance to rejuvenate and rest. You can jump back in with a clearer mind and more energy if you give your brain and body the breaks they need.
8 – Be Present with Those You Love
Spend time each day with those you love. Use this moment to focus on them entirely. Look them in the eye, ask questions, hold hands, or whatever else you need to be present with your loved ones.
9 – Prep Your Day the Night Before
Clear a little clutter. Set out your clothes. Prep the coffee pot. Use 10-15 minutes of an evening to reset your home. You can also use this time to write down 3-5 things you accomplished or are grateful for from the day.
FAST-ACTION STEPS
1 – Sit down and review your goals. What steps can you take in your daily schedule to progress towards accomplishing your goals?
2 – Take 15 minutes this evening to tidy your living room and kitchen. Take a moment to pick an outfit for tomorrow, even if you are staying home.
3 – Set your morning alarm for 10 minutes earlier than usual. Enjoy an unrushed morning as you get ready for the day.
- About the Author
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James Donaldson
Former Owner and Director of The Donaldson Clinic (an outpatient physical therapy clinic)
James completed a 20 year professional basketball career in the spring of 2000. James established The Donaldson Clinic in (January 1990 – 2018) (shortly after a career threatening knee injury) with an idea that he would eventually become a physical therapist. He is a strong advocate for Women & Minority owned businesses and is very involved with various Chambers of Commerce. He understands what it takes to sustain a strong business environment that is conducive to the success of businesses overall.
James is a Washington State University graduate (’79). After an outstanding basketball career with WSU, he went on to play professional basketball in the N.B.A. with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks and Utah Jazz. He also played for several in Spain, Italy and Greece of the European Leagues plus toured with The Harlem Globetrotters to wrap up his career. James was an N.B.A. All-Star in 1988 while playing center for the Dallas Mavericks. In 2006, James was inducted into the Pac – 10 Sports Hall of Fame and also the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame.
He now devotes the majority of his time to various community activities, and toward the Gift of Life Foundation, speaking on mental health awareness and suicide prevention. James frequently conducts speaking engagements (motivational, inspirational, educational) for organizations, schools, youth groups and is the author of the published “Standing Above the Crowd” of which you can learn more about at www.standingabovethecrowd.com and is available for sale now.
In 2021, James published Celebrating Your Gift of Life: From the Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy. www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com
James is a 40+ year resident of Seattle. He believes in being a role model of success and professionalism for the scores of young people that he devotes so much of his time to. He currently serves on several Boards and/or committees and is a member of many organizations. (Please see complete listing on back)
James believes in developing relationships that create a “Win – Win” environment for everyone involved, and being the best he can be!