By Makenzi Johnson
Let’s be real with ourselves right now: there are some things in your life that you have been neglecting to do. Maybe it’s that homework assignment that isn’t due until Thanksgiving, but you tell yourself you don’t need to start doing even though it’s worth 99% of your grade. Or maybe it’s taking the trash out. But I also know that sometimes, we just don’t have the motivation to do some things. I get it, you’re tired, you’re stressed, you’re too overwhelmed — and that’s valid… but let this be your guide to some quick and easy things you can do, right now. May it act as a gentle reminder and air of encouragement, not another notch on your to-do list.
- Drink water
I feel like I could bet money, lots of money, that you aren’t getting the recommended eight glasses of water a day in order to stay hydrated and well. Maybe you are only getting in three glasses of water, but I think we can do better. So right now, grab your water bottle, a glass, a mug, a watering can, a hose or whatever you would prefer and chug some water. You’ll thank yourself later when you don’t get a dehydration headache.
- Call your mom
I call my mom every other day, at minimum. Sometimes I just need to hear her sympathize with me about my homework load or how my crush of the week isn’t giving me any attention — I feel like you could maybe use some motherly love, too, or grandmotherly, fatherly or whatever type of familial love. Just call them. It really won’t kill you to spend seven minutes on the phone to let your mom know that you are indeed still alive.
- Tell a friend that you’re proud of them
Grab them (with their consent, please), look them in the eye and confidently say, “I am so proud of you for all you have done and will continue to do.” Everyone could use a little more encouragement and this really isn’t that difficult.
- Stretch your legs
Take a couple minutes to just stretch out your limbs. I’m not going to tell you exactly how to stretch, because I know we all have our personal preferences: sitting on the floor, simply standing, getting into the splits, whatever. However you would prefer to stretch, just do it, loosen those calf muscles that feel dangerously too tight. If you’re an overachiever, stretch your glutes.
- Cash your paycheck
Some of us don’t have direct deposits, for whatever reason. Mine was because I was too lazy to set it up, but that means I, and others, have to go through the work of cashing a physical check when payday comes around. I think it ends up being more work than the direct deposit… but regardless, don’t let a paycheck sit in a folder or on your desk for weeks on end, you’re holding yourself back from buying great things! Just get it over with and cash your paycheck, the late night snack runs are more satisfying when you can actually afford them, anyways.
- Put your laundry away
Maybe it’s clean laundry, maybe it’s not. But you’re an adult in college, of legal age to go to war, vote and get a tattoo, so I am sure you can fold your own clothes and put them away. Your mom isn’t here to do it for you anymore, I’m sorry, but literally just shove all your stuff in a drawer if you need to. Having your underwear and t-shirts reminiscent of your high school sports lying on the floor of your room isn’t all too cute to certain guests you’re wanting to impress.
- Dance it out
I like to live my silly, little life according to the wise words of Samuel Beckett: “Dance first. Think later. It’s the natural order.” Just bust a move! Wiggle that body of yours! Throw your hands in the air like you don’t care! You don’t have to be a trained ballerina or a Rockette to just dance every once in a while. I mean, have you even tried taking a two minute dance break amidst trying to solve math problems or write an essay? The little break works wonders for stress and anxiety in my humble opinion. May I recommend dancing to “Feel This Moment” by Pitbull? It’s an easy one to get the hips moving.
