7 habits for living an engaged life
Dear readers, those of you who have subscribed to Tokyo Calling from the start know that once in a while, I like to digress and write about the joys of slow life (which, of course, include reading and books).
Today I’m putting aside my Japan-related writing again to share an interesting and hopefully thought-provoking piece I found on the internet. I hope you’ll enjoy it, and please let me know what you think.
One more thing: my latest piece about a soapland worker has gone micro-viral and got me several new subscribers. If you are interested in reading more about Japan’s sex industry, please check out my interview with a pink film actress and posts on sex & money, hostess clubs and the history of soaplands.
Living fully in every moment sounds like a great idea, but no one has time for that. Or do they? Here are 7 simple mindset changes to help you engage deeper each day and truly enjoy the life you lead.
1. Be Spontaneous
Even if you are a habitual person, be open to new challenges and embrace change in the little moments of your day. Try to find fun new ways to tackle ordinary tasks. Vary your routines, and you may find new people to talk to along the way.
2. Have Passionate Interests
If something sparks you, even a little bit, you should direct energy into it. Explore the things you care about, and you’ll learn more about yourself in the process – it’s never too late to pick up a new activity!
3. Embrace Who You Are
Move away from things and places that sap your unique energy. Realize that not everyone can be amazing at everything, and sometimes it’s okay to outsource your weaknesses to others and focus on your own strengths. Recognizing your limitations will boost your confidence and happiness in the long run.
4. Open Your Mind to the World
Expand your horizons to include world events and happenings outside of your hometown. Taking a broader view of things will add substance to your own experiences, and it will make you a more interesting person to talk to!
5. Listen More, Talk Less
Everybody is brilliant in his or her own way, and in order to get the full benefit of a person’s unique story, you should give him or her the full attention they deserve. Happy people generally recognize that life is more interesting when you pay attention to the people around you.
6. Take Care of Yourself
Take some time out each week to exercise. Eat right during your meals and make sure you are taking the time to make yourself happy. If you need some time alone, take it. Small steps can lead to big changes in your health and your mood each day.
7. Focus on Opportunities
In order to live a life of interest, you should take every opportunity you’re presented with. Little things add up to big things, and it’s important that you try something new every day. Have confidence in yourself and in your abilities and go ahead and ask for help if you need it.
We are living in crazy times. I hope this post will offer you a few good ideas on how to improve your life and avoid going mad. I found it here, by the way.
Listen more, talk less. 👍
As someone embarking on something new as self-employed, this are fantastic ways to frame my new world and time. Thanks so much for helping us all slow down!