1.) Coffee. From never drinking it ever in my life, to having it once a day, it has changed my life. I started drinking it after I gave birth to my daughter. We bought a small drip brewer, a $15 cheap one from Walmart, along with some Dunkin Donut beans. I remember measuring out the beans, brewing it, and taking it with me to work. I was still bartending at the time so it was greatly needed. However, me not knowing anything about coffee, didn’t realize that you’re supposed to brew coffee with GROUND beans. I brewed them with WHOLE beans. I kept wondering why it was coming out so light, yet again, the bag did say it was a light roast (insert shrug emoji). Also, I didn’t just do this once; I did that several times before I stopped all together. It wasn’t until years later, after I had started working at a coffee shop, that it clicked. I was working an opening shift, grinding the coffee beans to brew in house when it hit me; so THAT’S why it didn’t taste right!
2.) Crocheting. It seems like this is picking up in popularity. I learned how to do this when I was a kid, but lacking the patience for it, I stopped doing it until recently. To help myself with anxiety, fear, and over eating, I picked it up again to keep my hands busy and my mind focused. It has helped IMMENSELY. So far, I’ve created several hats (a great starting point), a few tube tops, and have recently progressed to hexagram cardigans. I’ve definitely had to start, stop, un-do, start, stop and re-start several times before getting it right. It’s a fantastic way to learn patience.
3.) Writing. Even if I don’t get the opportunity to sit down and write as much as I’d like, I’ve noticed that writing has significantly improved several aspects in my life. I’m much better at communicating, being clear and concise when I need to be, or identifying words that better articulates the point I’m trying to make. I no longer feel like my emotions are trying to burst out; I allow myself to feel them as they come.
4.) Outside time. I admit I don’t do this as often as I would like. Now that the weather is consistently warmer, I find that it’s getting easier to do. Nothing beats the warmth of the sun shining down on your skin. I can’t wait to kayak throughout the summer.
5.) Me time. As much as I love my family, I need a little bit of me time every day to collect my thoughts or plan out the day or upcoming week. Afterall, how can I take care of others, if I don’t take care of myself?
What are your thoughts on the matter?