Caring Too Much vs. Not Caring At All: Striking the Balance
January 2nd, 2012 § Leave a Comment
Recently, I figured out that I’m hyper aware…of everything. It’s just the way I am. Friends, family, and certainly roommates could attest that I’ve driven them crazy at times with bouts of near-OCD. It could be something as simple as making sure that things are aligned just how I like them or that all of the kitchen cabinets are closed. [No, I don't actually have OCD.]
In the past few months I’ve realized why I’m like that: I’m just really aware of everything around me. So much so, that when something is out of place, it’s all I can think about. My solution in the past? Fix it and everything’s better.
Here’s the problem: it’s exhausting. In an effort to make things perfect, I’ve even driven myself close to being forever uptight.
Then again, being so aware of everything around me certainly proves beneficial at times; those times when someone gets just a little too close to a delicate wine glass, or a candle is dangerously close to a stack of napkins.
I had a really great conversation with one of my best friends about this just last night. She told me how she’d kill to be so aware of everything. As with many things in life, the grass is always greener on the other side.
But what I realize I need is balance. Balance between being hyper aware and being unaware. Balance between caring about everything around me so much and not caring at all.
So how do you strike the balance?
My solution? Be aware of the things that really matter. So maybe a light gets forgotten and left on for a few extra minutes before someone realizes it’s on? What’s the harm? A few extra cents on the ol’ electric bill? No biggie.
By saving the worrying for important things and letting go of the little ones, I’ve noticed that I am an all-around calmer and happier person.
So which are you? The one that needs to care a little more? Or a little less? Or have you already gotten the balance figured out? 
Like this:
How to Take One Step Closer to Happiness
December 8th, 2011 § Leave a Comment
Recently I did something fun. I made a list of things that make me epically, fantastically, unquestionably blissful. Then, I promised myself that I would do one thing on that list every single day.
Since the day I created my list, I’ve only missed maybe one day (because I was sick). But I’ve noticed that instead of having any of those “icky-today-was-a-waste” days, I’ve felt like every day’s been complete.
I am by no means suggesting you can – or should – plan out perfect moments. Instead, I’m suggesting that if you feel like your day isn’t complete, are feeling “bleh”, or are simply restless, visit your “happy list” and take that next step to being a happier you.
For inspiration, some things on my list include:
- Make dinner while having a glass of wine and listening to jazz.
- Spend a night with girlfriends playing cards and laughing.
- Do a solid yoga session.
- Get dressed up and go out with friends at a jazz bar.
- Get dressed up and go…anywhere!
- Take a long, relaxing run.
- Check off a ton of items off my to-do list.
- Write something I feel good about.
- Have a really good conversation with a friend or family member.
- Make someone belly laugh.
- Belly laugh myself.
- Turn off the TV and read a great book.
What about you, what’s on your “happy list”?
A Quarter of a Century
October 24th, 2011 § 2 Comments
Today I turned 25 years old.
I’d like to think I’m 25% smarter, 25% wittier, 25% cooler than 25 years ago. And you know the great part? Every day that number grows.
Out of everyone I know, I’m one of the few that enjoys getting older. I genuinely love it.
Here’s to the next 25. Cheers!
What Type of Fitness Routine is Right for You?
September 14th, 2011 § 2 Comments
The way I see it, there are a ton of different ways to exercise; but they boil down to three major categories: classes, the gym, and on your own.
Classes
Doing fitness classes are a great way to stay motivated and keep with a program. Whether you’re into yoga pilates, or something more intense like a boot camp or kettle bell class, to something more fun and adventurous like a zumba or pole dancing class, you’ll find something in your area to suit your needs.
One of the best part about a class is that you’ll have less of an inclination to give up early or in general on it. You might even take friends with you – so that you’re all in it together!
There’s also the small bit about money. Often, you’re going to have to pay for the exercise classes you take, and sometimes it’s no small amount. Think you’ll skip a class after shelling out that much dough? I doubt it. But there’s a bonus: tons of studios and classes give you a free “try before you buy” class so you that you can test out how you like it, first.
So if you’re the type of person who needs a little more motivation and are able to spend a little in order to gain a lot, classes might be right for you.
Gym
The gym is another great option for your fitness regimen. Often less than taking classes (I’ve heard of fees as low as $10 – $20 per month!), you’re left to your own devices a bit more. That said, some gyms do offer classes and even personal trainers.
Another place to get and stay motivated, the ambiance of a gym may be just enough to kick you into gear once you get there. If not, make sure you bring a friend along and you’ll keep each other on track.
Some things to consider: what are the gyms in your area? What perks do they offer? Do they offer hours that work with your schedule or are they 24 hours?
If you’re the type that needs just a little motivation and an indoor space with all the equipment you need, the gym is calling your name.
On your own
For this routine, you’ll need the most discipline. But, let’s look at the perks: you’ll never be restricted by time and working out on your own doesn’t cost any money.
This may be the perfect choice if you enjoy running outside, swimming at a lake or in the ocean, surfing, plus any of the many indoor activities you can partake in. If you’re a video junkie – say you love P90X – this may be the perfect way to fit in your exercise, and all right from the comfort of your living room!
If you’re the self-motivated type that enjoys a wide range of both indoor and outdoor activities, a fitness routine all your own may be just the ticket!
Remember: you don’t have to be defined by one routine, why not try all three?!
The point is: figure out what works for you. It may not be the same every week, but it’s good for your body to mix things up a little!
Like this:
How to Know When You’re a Friend, Love, or in Love
August 24th, 2011 § 3 Comments
It seems silly…
but I came up with a golden rule a while back. It helps you figure out whether you’re in love, lust, or friendship. It may seem a teeny bit morbid, so bear with me.
Let’s say this person were to die.
If you like the person…you’d go to their funeral.
If you love the person…you’d cry at the funeral.
If you’re in love with the person…you’d die at the funeral.
So if you’re ever confused about how you feel for someone, try that simple test. It may be morbid, but it definitely works.
