My personality has drastically changed from when I was in grade school to the first day of classes at university. Contrary to what you may believe, I was tremendously shy and reserved and found interaction just a bit awkward. Not sure what happened, but the first few hours of college forced me to change. Though through the significant personality changes, there were still habits that I carried from my more introvert-lifestyle to today that helps me stay engaged, focused and intellectually fulfilled. Slightly different from your average productivity post, but the tips below transformed my everyday life to a more smarter lifestyle. Living a smarter lifestyle made me more confident, independent, and happy. So I’m sharing everything I’ve done to lead a smarter lifestyle that has helped me become the person I am today and towards something better.
read a novel & the newspaper
I do read quite a bit as it helps me escape and brings me new ideas all at the same time. You can find the books I’m enjoying here and my book reviews here. Reading helps you develop opinions, ideas, and engage in conversations with different perspectives. Reading the newspaper informs you of what is going outside your borders and their editorials will enlighten you with a different perspective on a socio-political issue. Novels, are quite the contrary, but they engage my creativity. Writing techniques, storytelling, and poetry-they all have a profound impact on your daily lexicon. It’s the easiest way of leading a smarter lifestyle.
on watching television
Call me crazy, but I don’t have a Netflix account for the pure reason of being sucked into dramas that have very little impact on my life and keeps me from being active. I do, however, love a good Gossip Girl episode, but lately I’ve given more weight to documentaries and docuseries on topics I’m not too familiar with. To add an edit, 2020 me in lockdown now has a Netflix account and is thriving!
be active & adventurous
Growing up, my parents had me involved in so many extracurricular activities that ranged from dance to piano to tennis lessons. With a busy schedule growing up, having time where I’m not productive is rare. Being active by being involved in learning or doing something or even through exercise is healthy on your well-being. Your experience encourages a smarter lifestyle by fulfilling impact on how you look at your achievements.
play devil’s advocate
Having friends in so many different fields makes conversation exciting. From banter over pints and serious late-night political discussions, it gives you the opportunity to take on a position in conversations that you’re not necessarily comfortable with, but back it up with evidence.
engage your hobbies
I’m not sure how to describe this one to you, so I’ll give you an example. Cooking is one of my passions that I share with my family. After a long day, I do find the process of cooking methodical, calming and special. I get lost in what I’m doing and constantly challenge myself to try something new in culinary technique.
alone time
One of the greatest things my father has forced me to do was to take one weekend a month to be completely on my own. Once a month, I plan a personal self-care retreat where I cook whole and healthy foods, pamper myself with a multiple step skincare regimen, and taking time to sleep and relax. It’s healthy, fulfilling and gives you time to think about yourself and put yourself first.
I’m curious, do you practice any of these? Is there something that you do to engage a smarter lifestyle?