Life can feel overwhelming sometimes, and no matter how hard you try to stay afloat, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut (or two). When things are good, it’s natural to want to just stay good. So, we fall into comfortable rhythms—because, let’s face it, we love stability—and before we know it, we’re looking back and wondering where the last few years have gone.
The ebb and flow of life can be disheartening, though, like you’re either trying to battle through the ‘gunk’ or you’re floating. But there is a middle ground. Even when you feel unmotivated, making little changes can start to put you on the right path. And no, you don’t need anything life-altering to push yourself forward. You just need the courage to start.
Whether you’ve felt stuck for years or are just hoping to make some shifts, here are a few little, magical ways to push yourself forward.
Take A Solo Trip
Before you say, “Wait! I thought this wasn’t supposed to be anything life-altering!?” Remember that a solo trip doesn’t have to be across the country (although it can if that’s your jam!). A solo trip can simply mean going somewhere local for the weekend—alone—without attachments, work, kids, etc.
Getting out by yourself will give your life the sparkle it needs. When you’re alone, you focus on yourself, your goals, your passions/hobbies, and your true feelings. It also allows you to see things through a new lens.
If you decide to go somewhere out of your comfort zone, you’ll also feel challenged which will flex new (and maybe even unused muscles). But regardless of where you go, taking a solo trip will allow you to push yourself forward and help you recognize your own limits and abilities.
Meet New People
Meeting new people and allowing them into your life is one of the greatest ways to push yourself forward. Why? Because new people challenge us, inspire us, and allow us to build relationships that alter how we look at life.
Think back on previous relationships (platonic and romantic). What did they teach you? Chances are, the new people you allowed into your heart and space helped you grow. And no matter where you are in life, this is true!
Sometimes we stagnate in making friendships because it’s harder, because we have families/kids, or because we’ve assumed that we’ve made all the connections we need. But none of that is true!
Finding new connections—whether in joining a book club, attending a speed dating event, or trying a workout class—can help you meet people, potentially find someone you really care about, and if nothing else, give you a break from the routine!
Give Up Bad Habits
If you want to push yourself forward in life, challenge yourself to give up bad habits. Honestly, sometimes, it’s what we don’t do that has the biggest impact.
Whether you’re biting your nails, eating unhealthy foods, spending too much time on social media, surrounding yourself with negative people, etc., challenge yourself to shift away from this behavior and focus on something more productive, empowering, or fun.
And remember that habits die hard, so be patient with yourself as you take active steps to change your life.
Start A New Hobby
Pushing yourself forward in life is all about trying new things!
Make a list of things you haven’t done and try to check off at least one item per month. Explore different interests (or even things you think you’ll be bad at!) because this will allow you to try, fail, and try again. Talk to friends or family and jump on their bandwagons to see if any of their interests connect with you. And perhaps most importantly, remember that you don’t have to be good at what you try in order for it to be meaningful, memorable, and fun.
Featured Image Credit: Cyrus Crossan