2 minute read
Jennifer Bonn
BY JENNIFER BONN
I always think of spring as the time of the year when nature starts to thrive again. Grass and trees become a verdant green, flowers and trees are full of color, and there is a sense of health and rebirth. If we agree that we enjoy seeing this change in nature, we also should want to see the same with ourselves. What can we do to make sure we are thriving? Here are a few ideas: 1. Feed your soul and spirit. What are those moments or things that fill you with joy? Do more of those, because life is too short. I love being outside, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Curling up in the porch swing with a good book makes me happy. I tell everyone that I am smiling constantly when I am running or writing. If you feed your soul and spirit, you will be better prepared to help others do the same. 2. Be open to new things and ideas. Part of thriving is always being ready to grow and improve. We can learn from everyone around us, and we can do this the best when we listen to a variety of ideas. Try new things, such as learning an instrument, to stimulate your mind. 3. Surround yourself with a good community. Enjoy the friends who support you and laugh with you. Friendship takes time and effort, but it shouldn’t be difficult, or filled with drama. Spend time with the people you love, and soak up the power of being surrounded by a supportive community. 4. Take care of yourself. We often take care of everyone else first, and ourselves last, but we can be stronger for others if we prioritize self-care. Go to the doctor and take care of necessary yearly tests. Rest enough, because how much we sleep affects everything else we do. Take time to be alone to reflect, or to have some quiet time. 5. Make moments of joy. Laughter is the best medicine, so do it often. You can dance in the kitchen, sing at the top of your voice while you change the words, play with animals, or watch a funny movie. 6. Take a break from social media and your phone. Both things can be time-wasters and distractors. Interact with some humans, instead of a screen. 7. Move. Whether you take a walk, swim, run or do some other form of movement, you need to stay active to be at your best. 8. Leave the excuses behind. You have to change from an excuse-maker to a challenge-breaker. That means, instead of saying you cannot exercise because you cannot find the time, realize your physical and mental health influence everything else you do in life, so they need to be a priority. Take some time to make a list of what you need to do to thrive, and then check items off the list as you accomplish each one.
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Jennifer Bonn is a freelance writer in Kennesaw and a recently retired 40-year educator. Her book, “101 Tips to Lighten Your Burden,” was recently released and is available on Amazon.
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