When I was writing a thank-you note a few days ago, it occurred to me that I should write notes of this nature more often. I’ve recently had similar thoughts about other actions.
In fact, when I really think about it, there are scores of simple, but beneficial things I ought to do more frequently. Here, in no particular order, are 50 of those things.
- Write thank-you notes
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator
- Listen in order to understand, not just to formulate a response
- Get out of bed the first time the alarm sounds
- Select eco-friendly products
- Memorize Bible verses
- Learn how to spell commonly misspelled words
- Connect with friends from the past
- Call friends on the phone instead of texting or connecting via social media
- Make new friends
- Go on walks
- Get rid of unneeded stuff
- Donate unneeded items (if they’re in good shape) to thrift stores that support worthy causes
- Donate money to charities
- Volunteer with charities
- Use the treasured items reserved for special occasions
- Get to know the in-laws better
- Read thought-provoking books
- Be grateful
- Put additional money in an emergency fund
- Pray for government leaders
- Pray for neighbors and the community
- Pray for family members and friends
- Pray…just pray
- Do little things to rekindle the romance of early marriage
- Practice hospitality
- Laugh
- Say “I love you” to family members
- Enjoy the present moment
- Engage in traditions and rituals with family
- Take breaks from screens (computers, phones, TVs, etc.)
- Eat vegetables
- Take long, relaxing baths
- Go to bed earlier
- Say “I’m sorry” and take responsibility for failings
- Dress up
- Speak words of encouragement to others
- Resist the temptation to complain
- Watch sunrises and sunsets
- Tip generously for good service
- Let go of anxieties
- Get to know neighbors
- Be a good neighbor
- Write letters and emails to communicate opinions to elected officials
- Attend community events
- Think before speaking
- Support local businesses
- Arrive on time for church
- Put papers (bills, notices, personal correspondence, etc.) away instead of putting them in stacks that need to be dealt with later
- Defeat procrastination
I don’t share this list to make you feel like you need to add to your to-do list or form another New Year’s resolution. We’re all busy enough with these as it is!
However, many of these actions are things we can do with minimal premeditation and effort, so I’m finding ways to smoothly integrate several of them into my everyday life. I hope you’ll find ways to do the same! After all, it’s often the small actions that make big differences in our lives.
What things would you like to do more often next year?
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