This Simple Habit Can Make Your Day Easier
A Simple Habit for a Better Day: The Power of Planning Ahead
As we get older, life becomes a delicate balance of responsibilities, personal goals, and the need for some time just for ourselves. If you’re like me, waking up to a busy day can feel overwhelming at times. But what if I told you there’s a simple habit that could change the way you approach your day — and maybe even your life? A psychologist suggests one small change that can make a huge difference: create a plan for your day before you start it.
Why Planning Works
At first, this might sound like common sense. After all, most of us already have some form of plan or to-do list. But the psychologist’s advice goes a little deeper. He suggests that the real key to success is creating a clear outline for your day the evening before. By doing this, you’re essentially setting up a roadmap that guides you through the day without all the stress of decision-making in the moment.
Imagine waking up to a “recipe” that’s already prepared for you. No need to figure out what to do next. You just follow the instructions you’ve set for yourself. Whether it’s handling work tasks, taking care of family responsibilities, or carving out time for your own hobbies and relaxation, the outline has already been laid out.
The Discipline of Simplicity
So why does this matter? According to the psychologist, it’s all about discipline. Not the harsh kind — but the little daily practices that add up over time. Think of it as building muscle, but for your mind. The simple act of creating an outline for the day can prevent procrastination and help you feel more in control of your time.
And here’s the kicker: when you feel in control, life feels easier. You don’t spend your energy trying to decide what comes next or whether you should tackle something right now. The outline does that for you, allowing you to move through your day with purpose.
How to Get Started
- Set Aside Time the Night Before: Take 10-15 minutes in the evening to plan your day. This doesn’t have to be a detailed, hour-by-hour breakdown. Just create a basic structure that includes the most important tasks. Write down anything you absolutely need to do, along with time for self-care.
- Keep It Simple: Don’t overthink it. A few bullet points are enough. The goal isn’t to fill every moment with a task, but to give yourself a clear idea of where your energy should go.
- Follow Your Plan: The next morning, instead of wasting time deciding what to do first, follow the outline you’ve already created. If something unexpected pops up, simply fill in the gaps as needed.
- Evaluate and Adjust: At the end of the day, reflect on what worked and what didn’t. Did you stick to your plan? What changes can you make for tomorrow?
The Benefits You’ll Notice
Over time, this little act of discipline can lead to big changes. You’ll likely feel less overwhelmed because you’ve already decided how your day will unfold. You’ll be less likely to procrastinate, as you’ll know exactly what to do and when. Plus, having a daily outline can boost your sense of control over your life — something we all crave, especially when juggling multiple responsibilities.
Final Thought
Life doesn’t have to be as chaotic as it sometimes feels. A little discipline — in the form of a simple outline — could be the key to enjoying the day instead of just surviving it. Give yourself the gift of planning, and let each day unfold with more intention, less stress, and a whole lot more confidence.
In addition to hosting The Sean Show on B105.7, Sean Copeland is a therapist at Evolve Therapy in Greenwood, IN.
This Simple Habit Can Make Your Day Easier was originally published on roneb1057.staging.go.ione.nyc