Relax…I said "STOP doing." It takes more effort to continue doing most of these things than to stop for just a day. It won’t hurt you, and it might actually help.
1. Stop Nagging
Try not to nag your kids or your husband about what they should be doing or what they’re doing wrong. Instead, focus on the positive and compliment them for what they are doing right. This may just give you a whole new perspective on your attitude.
2. Stop Eating Processed Foods
We all know processed foods are bad for us, but we eat them anyway. Try, just for one whole day, to go without this junk. Just to prove that you can.
3. Stop Smoking or Drinking
We’re not asking you to cut it out of your life all together, but if you do happen to smoke or enjoy a daily glass of wine — try going without it for just one day. You may surprise yourself in realizing you don’t really need it.
4. Stop Holding a Grudge
A University of Tennessee-Knoxville study found that when you’re willing to let things go, you can lower your blood pressure and improve the condition of your heart. So, let go of any lingering resentment just for one day and you may even make it a habit to forgive and forget!
5. Stop Procrastinating
Don’t put this one off till next month. Think of how accomplished you’d feel if you got things done right away instead of worrying and fretting over it for days, weeks or months at a time. Leavings things undone just creates more work for you in the end.
6. Stop Saying Yes When You Feel Like Saying No
We all have too much going on in our lives as it is, so don’t feel pressured into doing something you really don’t want to do. It’s empowering to say no once in a while!
7. Stop Carrying Around an Oversized Purse
While you may be able to fit your entire life (and family) into your ginormous tote, it’s definitely not good for your health. A bag that weighs over 10 pounds puts strain on your neck and shoulders, which leaves you susceptible to injury. Instead, try a smaller bag made of lighter material and only put things in it that you absolutely need that day. If you can’t bear to part with your oversized purse, then at least, alternate the shoulder on which you carry the bag.
8. Stop Checking Email/Facebook/Twitter
Let yourself feel the weight lifting off your shoulders as you unplug yourself — for just one day. The world will go on without you, trust me. And, while we’re at it…give texting a rest, too. Ahhh…doesn’t your best friend’s voice sound so lovely?
