Brooke McAlary

Learn to enjoy the slice of life you experience, and life turns out to be wonderful.

true secret of happiness lies in taking a genuine interest in all the details of daily life.
WILLIAM MORRIS

WHAT TO DO INSTEAD?
You could try:
• sitting quietly
• reading
• walking
• playing with your kids
• writing
• talking with your partner
• prayer
• meditation
• yoga
• sipping a coffee outside, watching the sky, hearing the birds.
Whatever you choose to do while you unplug, the important thing is that you connect with the real world, or allow your mind to access a different virtual one – the world of your own imagination.

Without thinking too much, write down:
• things you need to remember
• tasks you need to complete
• problems that have been worrying you
• possible solutions
• grocery items you need to buy
• scheduled events
• social occasions coming up
• outfits you want to wear
• chores you need to do
• funny things your kids have said
• anything else you want to capture.
If you find yourself with nothing to write, simply write, ‘I have nothing to write. I have nothing to write. I have noth …’ I guarantee your brain will offer something up soon enough.
Don’t censor yourself; just let it flow. Don’t worry about neatness, spelling

You can even create two separate lists – one for work and one for home, to keep you focused in each area throughout the day.

This is a good opportunity to create two separate lists if needed – one for your home tasks and one for work.
• Is there anything you can do today to improve things?
• Are there any specific tasks that need doing?
• Is there anything on the page that is time-sensitive?
Circle those items.

One of the most tragic things I know about human nature is that all of us tend to put off living. We are all dreaming of some magical rose garden over the horizon instead of enjoying the roses that are blooming outside our windows today.
DALE CARNEGIE

Give yourself one or two weeks to try these rituals in your everyday life.
Once that time has passed, look at your life, your heart and your head, and ask yourself: Do I feel more prepared for my days, more even-handed, happier, more content, more organised, more in control?