Section 1.1 Mindful Eating

One habit I’ve adopted is to savor my meals without the distraction of my phone. My partner often laughs at my tendency to admire my food before taking a bite. When I truly focus on what I’m eating—whether it’s a luscious peanut butter and banana creation or a vibrant, zesty salad—it enhances the experience. My advice? Set your phone aside and truly engage with every flavor, texture, and aroma. It’s a simple yet rewarding practice.

Section 1.2 The Joy of Walking

Walking is a privilege I cherish. In my previous neighborhood in San Diego, I longed to stroll outside but didn’t feel safe or inspired to do so. Now that I live in a secure area, I walk regularly, which elevates my mood, stimulates my mind, and promotes circulation. If you have the opportunity, take a walk; it’s worth the effort to lace up your shoes and step outside.

5 Ways to Declutter Your Brain - This video discusses practical strategies to clear your mind, enabling you to focus better and feel less overwhelmed.

Section 1.3 Maximizing Commute Time

My commute used to consume 45 minutes of my day, and I constantly felt pressured to utilize that time productively. Yet, let’s face it—whether crammed on a bus or stuck in traffic, commuting can be a drag. I realized I could transform this time into something more enjoyable. Now, my journey to school takes an hour and 20 minutes, during which I engage in activities that uplift my spirit without overwhelming my mind. I steer clear of social media and emails and choose between listening to a fiction audiobook, a nonfiction book that piques my interest, or immersing myself in music. This approach has significantly improved my commute experience.

Section 1.4 The Therapeutic Art of Coloring

Earlier this year, creating lesson plans consumed hours of my time, leaving my eyes strained from screen exposure. Seeking a new hobby, I took up coloring, despite my lack of artistic inclination. Surprisingly, it has become a delightful source of relaxation for me, particularly before bed. Coloring allows me to focus and unwind, making it a great stress-reliever.

Section 1.5 Managing Instagram Usage

Instagram is the only social media platform I engage with, and while not every feature works for everyone, I found a method that suits me. I set a 10-minute time limit on the app. When that time elapses, I’m prompted to decide whether to continue scrolling or exit. More often than not, I choose to leave, which has proven beneficial.

Section 1.6 Decluttering Your Mind by Writing

If you’re like me, your mind can often feel chaotic. When overwhelmed, I find it helpful to jot down my thoughts. Sometimes I do this in the form of journal entries, but more frequently, it resembles a to-do list. It might include reminders like, “Buy yogurt,” “Send that email,” or “Watch your sister’s reels.” Writing down even the smallest thoughts provides relief and clarity, allowing my mind to declutter.

Section 1.7 Finding Balance

While this might not be a habit per se, it serves as a helpful mantra: “Do what you can and let the rest go.” I tend to overthink and become easily stressed. This phrase grounds me, reminding me of the limits of my control. I often repeat it until it resonates, allowing me to focus on what I can do rather than what I can’t.

Section 1.8 The Importance of Sleep

Some of my friends jokingly call me an “old lady” because I prioritize sleep at 26. Though I struggle with some habits, I maintain a solid sleep schedule. Quality sleep is essential for mood, energy, and focus. Personally, I aim for eight hours, which means going to bed at 10 PM and rising at 6 AM. Consistency in sleep patterns is what matters most.

Section 2.1 Start Small

Reading articles like this can feel daunting, making you think you need to implement numerous habits at once to cultivate a fulfilling life. However, change often begins with small steps—like picking up a coloring book or ensuring you get enough sleep. Choose one or two habits to focus on, and take it from there. Don’t overwhelm yourself before you even begin.