10 Simple Ways To Improve Your Life Today

Small steps for big impact

These weekly columns have appeared in hundreds of newspapers, magazines, and online publications over 20 years. Each of the more than 1,000 columns ends with a simple reminder that today’s the day. However, most of the columns deal with topics for improvement in your personal or professional life that should be implemented over a series of years or even decades.

Today I want to focus on ten things most of us can do right now to improve our lives and the world around us. There’s nothing magical about these ten suggestions. Suppose I draft this column on another day. In that case, I might highlight other tips, and you may have some ideas of your own or activities you’ve been putting off that you know you should do. So, for better or worse, here are my ten suggestions for how you can improve your day and your life:

 

1. Thank Somebody 

We all have many things to be grateful for, and we didn’t get here on our own. Write or call someone who has made a difference in your life and thank them.

2. Get a Legal Will 

One of the most loving things you can do for your family and friends is to get a will, especially if you have children. If you die without a directive, the government will decide who raises your children. While I recommend your final will be written by a competent attorney, you can get forms online that express your wishes. 

3. Get Some Exercise 

I’m not suggesting you run a marathon today or even join a health club. Most experts agree that consistently walking may be the best exercise and can certainly impact how you look and feel.

4. Perform a Random Act of Kindness 

Go out of your way to do something kind for a stranger with no expectation of getting anything in return. It may be as simple as holding the door open for them, giving them a warm greeting, or paying the toll for a stranger.

You will improve your day as well as theirs.

5. Read a Book

I’m not suggesting you tackle War and Peace, but instead, simply find something that interests you and spend 15 minutes reading each day.

6. Register to Vote 

You and your vote can make a difference. There has not been an election in my life that could not have been altered if the people who didn’t vote, or those who never bothered to register, got involved.

7. Get Some Sleep 

In our 21st-century world, we mistakenly assume it’s a badge of honor to overcommit and overwork. Invariably, the area of our lives that gets neglected is our sleep. Doctors will tell you that getting at least seven hours of consistent sleep may be the easiest way for most people to improve their health.

8. Unplug 

The technology we all utilize constantly makes a great servant but a horrible master. Take control of your life and block out some time with family and friends when you’re not attached to emails or social media.

9. Eat Something Healthy 

The old saying that you are what you eat is true. I’m not suggesting that you can permanently revolutionize your diet today, but you can begin by eating a few fruits and vegetables and simply drinking eight glasses of water.

10. Give 

Find a charity or a cause that matters to you and give something today. Whether it’s money, time, or simply items you’ve cleaned out of your garage or closet, if we all give a little, we can make a massive difference.
 
As you go through your day today, commit to small activities that can make a big difference.

Jim Stovall is the President of the Emmy-award-winning Narrative Television Network as well as a published author of more than 50 books—eight of which have been turned into movies. He is also a highly sought-after platform speaker. Follow @Stovallauthor