7 Simple Ways to Lighten Things Up

A list can help you prioritize, as well as decide what is not important. Roman Samborskyi/Shutterstock

The times we are living in can feel heavy. If you’ve been carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, it’s time to set that down and lighten things up. Here are a few simple ideas to consider.

Dump It Out

What things are weighing on your mind? Whether you’re anxious about the future of humanity or that stack of papers on your desk—take out a pen and paper and write it all down. Keep writing, from the silly to the profound. Get every idea that is taking up space in your mind onto the page. When you truly feel as if you’ve captured it all, you’re done.

Take a deep breath, pour yourself a soothing beverage, and relax. Recognize any sense of relief that comes from this simple act of what’s known as a “brain dump.” Set aside your list. If you’re so inclined, take a walk outside or even a nap.

Let Go of All You Can’t Control

Later—hours or days later—return to your brain dump. If anything else has since popped up for you, go ahead and add it. As you review your collection of concerns, begin searching for those you have no control over. Some examples of things you can’t control include the weather; the past and future; thoughts, feelings, and actions of others; and the constraints of space and time.