Stop Taking Everything So Seriously

Many things make a huge difference in our lives that we write off as insignificant or worthless. A lot of us have really lost track of what really matters in life. Why is it, do you think, that so many people are extremely unhappy or depressed?

We avoid the things that are good for us and we spend all of our time focusing on things that make us feel terrible. We've had it demonstrated to us repeatedly in many different situations that, we are putting all of our energy and focus in the wrong places. Do we have to wait until it is our turn on the deathbed to get the message?

What is the message that we are supposed to be getting?

The message that has been whispered in our ears, screamed in our faces, and thrown at our feet is...

Lighten Up.

Life is short. Life is meant to be enjoyed. Have fun while you're here.

Of course we all have responsibilities and have to do things we don't enjoy sometimes. But regardless of how much free time you have, you can choose to use whatever time you do have to do things that bring you joy. You are here, you are alive right now, and that means you are important. Treat yourself that way.

It's time for you to live!

Sing. Turn on your favorite music and sing as loud as you can. Who cares if you don't have the best voice, just have fun. Dance while you're at it. You don't have to know how to dance; just move to the music in whatever way feels good to you. So what if your friends or family look at you weird. They'll get used to it and they'll like it a lot more than the alternative. Just let loose and enjoy yourself.

If you're feeling stiff, or your muscles ache, don't sit there and whine about it. Get up and stretch those limbs. Reach to the sky as high as you can. Take a deep breath as you stretch your arms above your head and exhale as you let them down to your sides. Do some lunges. Loosen up that body and breathe in the air your lungs were intended too.

When you get home from work find something funny to listen too or watch. Talk to your family or your friends about some funny memories. Laugh as hard as you can. Laugh until you cry. Laugh until it hurts. There is always something to laugh at. Regardless of your mood right now, if you just put forth the effort you can change it in an instant if you just laugh.

Take a shower with the water as cold as you can handle. I know this probably doesn't sound like fun to you, but it is absolutely exhilarating. Don't think about it too much or you'll talk yourself out of it. Just turn the nozzle and hop in. You will feel more alive and awake than any cup of coffee could ever make you feel.

Just Do It. Try some of these things. Come up with some of your own ideas. Whatever you do, just lighten up. If you aren't having a good time, find a way to have a good time. Don't wait any longer. Time is going to keep going no matter what you're doing with it. You won't be able to get any of it back, so make the best of it. You don't have to do something extravagant, just relish, really relish what you have to enjoy in your life right now.

Stop taking everything so seriously. Just smile, laugh, and have a good time.