Sometimes it feels like life just isn’t panning out the way you’d hoped or dreamed it would.
Something feels broken — or hey, maybe many things do — and you have no idea what to do to get back on track. First of all, don’t give up. There’s no problem in your life that’s insurmountable. Instead, stop and take a deep breath, then do these things to start fixing the things that are in need of repair.
1. Clearing your physical space can clear your mind.
When your surroundings are cluttered, it can make your mind feel scattered, too. Decluttering your home or workspace can be surprisingly therapeutic. It helps you regain a sense of control, and having an organised space can give you the mental clarity needed to tackle other challenges in life. Plus, it’s easier to focus in a tidy environment.
2. Getting your sleep routine sorted is key.
If you’re not sleeping well, everything else feels harder. Setting a consistent bedtime, aiming for 7–9 hours of sleep, can work wonders for your energy and mood. Build a calming bedtime routine—like reading, listening to soft music, or a warm bath—so your body knows it’s time to wind down. Good sleep is like hitting a reset button for your mind and body.
3. Daily mindfulness or meditation can make a big difference.
Even taking just 10 minutes a day to sit quietly, focus on your breathing, or practice mindfulness can do wonders. It helps to manage stress, bring you into the present moment, and give you a fresh perspective on whatever’s troubling you. Gradually, you’ll find yourself less overwhelmed and better equipped to handle life’s ups and downs.
4. Re-evaluate your screen time habits.
We’re all guilty of spending too much time glued to our phones or laptops. Setting some boundaries—like putting your phone down an hour before bed or designating ‘tech-free’ zones in the house—helps you reconnect with the world around you. Plus, less screen time can help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.
5. Strong relationships are everything.
When life feels out of balance, friends and family can be a lifeline. Take time to nurture those important relationships by checking in, spending quality time together, or even reconnecting with someone you’ve lost touch with. Surrounding yourself with supportive people will remind you that you’re never alone, even in tough times.
6. Physical activity boosts your mood and health.
Exercise isn’t just about fitness—it’s also a mental health booster. Even a short walk or some light stretching can lift your spirits and help you think more clearly. Find something you enjoy, whether it’s yoga, dancing, or cycling, and gradually work it into your routine. The key is to move in ways that make you feel good.
7. Setting small, achievable goals gives you direction.
Big dreams can sometimes feel overwhelming, but breaking them down into smaller, manageable steps makes progress feel more achievable. Write down your goals and break them into actionable steps. Celebrate each little win along the way—it’ll keep you motivated and give you a sense of accomplishment as you inch toward the bigger picture.
8. Practising gratitude shifts your outlook.
Focusing on the good things in your life, no matter how small, can completely change your perspective. Try keeping a gratitude journal where you jot down three things you’re thankful for each day. You’ll find yourself more aware of the positive, which can brighten your mood and reduce stress over time.
9. Learning to say “no” helps prevent burnout.
You don’t have to say yes to everything and everyone. In fact, constantly overcommitting leads to stress and exhaustion. Setting boundaries and learning to say ‘no’ allows you to focus on what truly matters to you, giving you more energy and space to pursue things that bring you joy and fulfilment.
10. Trying new things can restore your passion for life.
It’s easy to fall into a rut, but exploring new experiences—whether it’s trying a new hobby, visiting a place you’ve never been, or just changing up your routine—can help reignite that spark. Stepping out of your comfort zone helps you grow, and it can inject a sense of excitement and possibility back into your daily life.
11. Reviewing your finances can reduce stress.
Money worries are a big cause of anxiety for many people, but taking control of your finances can help ease that burden. Start by creating a simple budget, cut back on unnecessary expenses, and set realistic financial goals. Even small changes can make you feel more empowered and less stressed about your financial future.
12. Being kind to yourself builds resilience.
Source: Unsplash We’re often our own harshest critics. Practising self-compassion—treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you’d offer a close friend—helps you build resilience. Remind yourself that making mistakes is part of life, and instead of beating yourself up, focus on how you can grow and learn from the situation.
13. Getting professional help is a step in the right direction.
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we can’t fix everything on our own—and that’s okay. Reaching out for professional help, whether from a therapist, counsellor, or mentor, is a strong step towards getting things back on track. They can provide support, guidance, and tools to help you navigate the tougher times. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
