<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>enhance your life Archives - Braving Boundaries</title> <atom:link href="https://bravingboundaries.com/tag/enhance-your-life/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://bravingboundaries.com/tag/enhance-your-life/</link> <description>PROFESSIONAL LIFE COACHING & TRAINING</description> <lastBuildDate>Fri, 17 Nov 2023 06:23:20 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-ZA</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <image> <url>https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Asset-1.svg</url> <title>enhance your life Archives - Braving Boundaries</title> <link>https://bravingboundaries.com/tag/enhance-your-life/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>10 Tips to Restore Balance When Life Feels Out of Control</title> <link>https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-to-restore-balance-when-life-feels-out-of-control/</link> <comments>https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-to-restore-balance-when-life-feels-out-of-control/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[friedaL2020]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 22 Jun 2023 18:31:14 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Finding direction and purpose]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self-awareness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self-care]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self-reflection]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Work life]]></category> <category><![CDATA[work-life balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[a balanced life]]></category> <category><![CDATA[boundaries]]></category> <category><![CDATA[enhance your life]]></category> <category><![CDATA[feeling out of control]]></category> <category><![CDATA[gaining control]]></category> <category><![CDATA[life balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[regaining control]]></category> <category><![CDATA[restore balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[say no]]></category> <category><![CDATA[self-care]]></category> <category><![CDATA[self-love]]></category> <category><![CDATA[work life balance]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://bravingboundaries.com/?p=5569</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-to-restore-balance-when-life-feels-out-of-control/">10 Tips to Restore Balance When Life Feels Out of Control</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_0 et_section_regular" > <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_0"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_0 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_0 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h5><span style="color: #be9727;"><em>WRITTEN BY ALICIA KOCH, FOUNDER OF <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a style="color: #be9727; text-decoration: underline;" href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">THE LEGAL BELLETRIST</a></span> </em></span></h5> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br />Life can be overwhelming.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With our day-to-day jobs, our hobbies, our families, and our digital lives, our to-do lists grow ever bigger. Suddenly it feels like we are swimming and swimming but failing to reach the shore. And life – inevitably – begins to feel a little out of control.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It happens. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But when it does, it’s important to remember that you are not alone. There are many of us swimming – all at once – with our respective shores firmly in our focus. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Some of us require inflatable “</span><a href="https://www.speedo.co.za/kids/accessories/swimming-aids" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">armbands</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">” to help with the swimming, knowing that these are just aids to help us get to where we are going. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These armbands can be in the form of seeking professional support in the form of coaching – Frieda Levycky of </span><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Braving Boundaries</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is perfectly poised to lend a hand when you feel the reins on your life begin to slip. Or perhaps these armbands come in the form of support from a medical professional like a</span><a href="https://www.sacap.edu.za/blog/applied-psychology/what-does-a-psychologist-do/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">psychologist</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or </span><a href="https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/what-is-psychiatry#:~:text=A%20psychiatrist%20is%20a%20medical,psychiatric%20help%20for%20many%20reasons." target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">psychiatrist</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Whichever armband works for you, works for you. There is no right or wrong way (not really) to gain control over your life. Sure, the thought of seeking professional support can be overwhelming, too “serious”. So, instead of giving you a long list of people you should see or how you can rein in the reins, we thought it may be better to simply set out some tips to get you on your way.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Simple. And to the point (because when you’re busy, short and sweet is the ticket). </span></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_0"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/restore-balance-3.jpg" alt="" title="restore balance (3)" class="wp-image-5580" /></span> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_1 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><b>10 tips to regain control</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When we look at restoring balance in our lives it encompasses our normal daily routines (which will include our online habits) as well as how we approach both our professional commitments and our personal ones too – </span></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_1 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_1 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_1"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/1.png" alt="" title="1" class="wp-image-1486" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_2 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_2 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><i><strong>Don’t start your day by looking at your phone</strong> </i><span style="font-weight: 400;">– for a lot of us the first thing we do when we open our eyes is look at our mobile phones/tablets. And suddenly, the number of things we need to do, the meetings that may be coming up in the next day or so, World News (which can often be negative), social media posts about people who look like they are living their best lives (while not actually working), all come flooding in. And suddenly you feel overwhelmed.</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Where do you even begin?</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> And this is before you even leave your bedroom. Its enough to send anyone diving back under the covers. Give yourself a break – </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">who needs to take on all that first thing in the morning?</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Instead, start off your day with a good old stretch, take a quick walk around your area, meditate, enjoy a good healthy breakfast (whatever that means for you). Add a positive daily affirmation to your routine (</span><a href="https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/relationships-love/g25629970/positive-affirmations/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Oprah’s 40 Positive Affirmations</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> are a great source of inspiration). Start your day on the correct mindful footing. </span></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_2 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_3 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_2"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/2.png" alt="" title="2" class="wp-image-1487" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_4 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_3 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><i><strong>Set your goals</strong> </i><span style="font-weight: 400;">– as you begin your day, start by writing things down. Often the simple practice of putting pen to paper engages your brain and you can then start to put the puzzle pieces together. Once you have made a couple of notes, start aligning them to the projects you are working on. And then out of all of that, extract the top two or three most pressing things. Make them a priority. Then with your notes and list in hand, set out your achievable (practical) game plan.</span></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_3 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_5 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_3"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/3.jpg" alt="" title="3" class="wp-image-1488" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_6 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_4 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong><i>Remember “charity starts at home”</i></strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">– working on the man, woman or person in the mirror first should always be your top priority. </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Get your house in order first.</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> In other words, while you set your goals for the day, consider how you are going to achieve them </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">in a way that makes sense</span></i> <b><i>FOR YOU</i></b><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Add yourself into the mixture of “most pressing things”. </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">What do you need to do for yourself</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">? Is that going to yoga or gym every morning? Is it escaping into nature for a walk twice a week? Is it finding time for a coffee with a friend once a week? Mentally picture your day </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">the way you want it to be</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and then </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">make time for the things that are most important</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. That includes </span><b>YOU</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_4"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_7 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_4"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/restore-balance-4.jpg" alt="" title="restore balance (4)" class="wp-image-5581" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_5 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_8 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_5"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/4.png" alt="" title="4" class="wp-image-1489" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_9 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_5 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong><i>Once you’ve set goals, simplify them </i></strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">– yes, this does sound counterintuitive but it’s important that when you set your goals for the day you look at </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">how you can simplify them</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. How can you make your tasks easier? Perhaps you need to ask for help on a project. Perhaps you need to bring in some extra hands. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. After all, this is about ensuring you get what you need to do and get it done in a way that is simple. That is easy. And that brings a little control back into your life. You can’t do it all alone.</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Be ok with that.</span></i></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_6 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_10 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_6"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/5.png" alt="" title="5" class="wp-image-1490" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_11 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_6 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><i><strong>Set boundaries</strong> </i><span style="font-weight: 400;">– this is an important one (especially for the ones that possibly say yes more than they say no). You need to set boundaries between work time and personal time. Especially if you are working from home. Make a conscious decision on what time you will start and end your workday. What time you will take your lunch break. Make a conscious decision whether you will take calls, answer WhatsApp’s or emails after work hours. </span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">And then stick to that</span></i></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Fervently guard your personal and private time. There are very few things that truly warrant a necessary and urgent intrusion on your personal time. By clearly setting your boundaries, you can regain control of your own life. You can restore balance – and in that balance – you can feel peace. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Work is an important part of your life – especially when you love what you do – but </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">family and self-care are just as important. </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Always</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> keep that in mind. </span></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_7 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_12 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_7"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/6.jpg" alt="" title="6" class="wp-image-1491" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_13 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_7 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><i><strong>Learn to say yes to you and no to others</strong> </i><span style="font-weight: 400;">– there is a certain power in saying “no” to others. One you will come to appreciate the more you do so. Saying no helps you to maintain the equilibrium you need. Stop doing things out of guilt or obligation. Instead, make more room in your life for the activities that are meaningful to you and that bring you joy. But saying “no” is only part of this equation. You need to learn to say “yes” more to the things that you need. It’s important to have fun, to relax, to spend meaningful time with your friends and family. In fact, it’s essential to a balanced life. Therefore – like with setting boundaries – make sure that you set aside time each day for an activity that you enjoy and set aside one night each week for something you know will rejuvenate you.</span></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_8"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_14 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_8"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/restore-balance-1.jpg" alt="" title="restore balance (1)" class="wp-image-5578" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_9 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_15 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_9"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/7.png" alt="" title="7" class="wp-image-1882" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_16 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_8 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong><i>Let things go</i></strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> – as you mindfully plan your day and envision how you want it to turn out, you will often find that the things that you thought “have to get done” no longer </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">need to be done</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. At least not in the time frame you first believed. Is it necessary to work until midnight to put the final touches on a report or on a draft contract? Do you really need to wake up at 4am just to get everything done in the day? Start by recognising the things that don’t really have much impact on your work (and your life) and then allow yourself to let them go. It’s hard. But being strict about this will help with balance and gaining control.</span></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_10 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_17 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_10"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/8.jpg" alt="" title="8" class="wp-image-1883" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_18 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_9 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong><i>Rest</i> </strong><b>–</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> we often neglect our health, ignoring the niggles here and there and chalk them down to “overdoing it”. But the truth is, your body needs down time to restore, to replenish and to unwind. Even if that means for an hour during your day you read a chapter from your new book. Don’t ignore the niggles that can turn into big no-no’s. Rest when you need to. This includes planning for holidays. They are important – staycations included. So, plan ahead and schedule your holidays. If you are able to, a regular meditation practice is a great way to take a mind break and bring yourself back into balance. And if you can’t meditate, perhaps just a quiet moment to yourself with a cup of tea will do. The point is – </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">give your mind a break.</span></i></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_11 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_19 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_11"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/9.jpg" alt="" title="9" class="wp-image-1884" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_20 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_10 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong><i>Concentrate on personal wellness – </i></strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">put positive habits like fitness and reading above the hectic work schedule. Placing importance on wellness can bring about a sense of normalcy, making it easier to concentrate on work when things feel a little out of control. Personal wellness includes communicating your stress or mental health struggles with those that can help. If you feel overwhelmed by your workload, raise it as an issue. Communication is key. And getting help even more so. You are replaceable at work but not at home. </span></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_12 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_21 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_12"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/10.jpg" alt="" title="10" class="wp-image-1885" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_22 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_11 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong><i>Be fluid and flexible</i></strong><b><i> –</i></b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> sometimes all our best laid plans are for naught. Life is unpredictable. Things happen. And even our most mindful to-do lists that tick all the right boxes to regain balance and control, fall apart. </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn that that’s ok.</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Be flexible and fluid enough to know that opportunities come and go. And move forward from that point. Regroup. Replan. And redo. Life can change significantly from one day to another. </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn to have vision and know that sometimes starting over is ok. </span></i></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_13"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_23 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_13"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/restore-balance-2.jpg" alt="" title="restore balance (2)" class="wp-image-5579" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_14"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_24 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_12 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The thing that needs to be driven home – while there are things you can do to bring balance and restore a sense of control in your life, it doesn’t mean you have to do everything we have set out above. That can also cause overwhelm and turn a mission of restoring balance into one that does not achieve the equilibrium we so often desire. Not ideal.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Take deep breaths. The purpose of this article is to help you, not hinder you. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Author Nick Harkaway said – </span></p> <blockquote> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Peace is not a state – it is a choice, and you have to remake it every day. It’s possible to get a sort of stability, a habit of peace, but it’s like an egg balanced, spinning, on its point: lose your momentum, and your equilibrium is gone, too”.</span></em></p> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Achieving balance in your life is a process. Often a journey filled with a hundred small steps. So, take one small step each day towards attaining balance, towards achieving control over your life – especially when life feels so out of control. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But remember this – we simply can’t control </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">every</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> aspect of our lives (despite wanting to). As we know – life happens. Shit happens. And we often need to </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">roll with the punches</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. That may not seem very comforting, but it actually is. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Because – while we can’t control every aspect of our lives, it doesn’t mean we can’t </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">work towards </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">achieving </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">a better balance, a better sense of equilibrium</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">a better sense of the calmness we crave</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We’re not saying you should aim to achieve a 50/50 work-life balance– because that’s not entirely realistic. What we are saying is this – </span></p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Don’t always favour one aspect of your life and neglect another e.g. work over family or health/fitness over time with friends. Every aspect of your life needs attention.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Don’t always put others’ needs before your own needs. You matter. </span></li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So, nurture each aspect of your life with care, knowing when to </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">say yes to the things you need</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">no to the things that you simply cannot do.</span></i></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_15"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_25 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_divider et_pb_divider_0 et_pb_divider_position_bottom et_pb_space"><div class="et_pb_divider_internal"></div></div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_16 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_26 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_14"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Alicia-Koch-The-Legal-Belletrist.jpg" alt="" title="Alicia Koch - The Legal Belletrist" class="wp-image-1704" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_27 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_13 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>About the Author, <strong><em>Alicia Koch, Founder of The Legal Belletrist.</em></strong> Alicia, an admitted attorney with over 10 years PQE, and now a legal writer and researcher, has established The Legal Belletrist to assist companies (in different sectors) to write well-researched articles that speak to each company’s core business, enabling growth and commercialism.</p> <p>Click here to visit <a href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">The Legal Belletrist website</a>. <strong>Email: <a href="mailto:alicia@thebelletrist.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alicia@thebelletrist.com</a> </strong></p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_17"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_28 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_15"> <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/book-a-call/"><span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="810" height="450" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/BASIC-BALANCE.jpg" alt="" title="BASIC BALANCE" class="wp-image-1945" /></span></a> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-to-restore-balance-when-life-feels-out-of-control/">10 Tips to Restore Balance When Life Feels Out of Control</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://bravingboundaries.com/10-tips-to-restore-balance-when-life-feels-out-of-control/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Creativity: The superpower leading to a happier and healthier life</title> <link>https://bravingboundaries.com/creativity-the-superpower-leading-to-a-happier-and-healthier-life/</link> <comments>https://bravingboundaries.com/creativity-the-superpower-leading-to-a-happier-and-healthier-life/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[friedaL2020]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 17 Mar 2023 11:27:37 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Finding direction and purpose]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self-care]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Stress & Anxiety]]></category> <category><![CDATA[work-life balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[amplified life]]></category> <category><![CDATA[art]]></category> <category><![CDATA[creative]]></category> <category><![CDATA[creative outlet]]></category> <category><![CDATA[creativity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[dance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[depression]]></category> <category><![CDATA[enhance your life]]></category> <category><![CDATA[furniture renovation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[good mental health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category> <category><![CDATA[imagination]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mental health matters]]></category> <category><![CDATA[painting]]></category> <category><![CDATA[past times]]></category> <category><![CDATA[perspective]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pottery]]></category> <category><![CDATA[productivity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[reduce overwhelm]]></category> <category><![CDATA[relieve anxiety]]></category> <category><![CDATA[self-care]]></category> <category><![CDATA[self-reflection]]></category> <category><![CDATA[singing]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stress relief]]></category> <category><![CDATA[work life balance]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://bravingboundaries.com/?p=5264</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>If you're seeking to live a happier, healthier and more productive life, then it's time to explore your creativity.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/creativity-the-superpower-leading-to-a-happier-and-healthier-life/">Creativity: The superpower leading to a happier and healthier life</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_1 et_section_regular" > <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_18"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_29 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_14 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h5><span style="color: #be9727;"><em>WRITTEN BY ALICIA KOCH, FOUNDER OF <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a style="color: #be9727; text-decoration: underline;" href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">THE LEGAL BELLETRIST</a></span> </em></span></h5> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Before I even start writing this article, it’s imperative for me to turn on some music.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sometimes it’s Beethoven’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Tr0otuiQuU" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Moonlight Sonata</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (I know kind of sombre) – it’s one of my favourite pieces of music – and on other occasions I need to crank up AC/DC’S </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2AC41dglnM" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Thunderstruck</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (because – hell, who doesn’t feel all fired up when this song is cracked up on LOUD?) or listen to the latest Miley Cyrus’s </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7KNmW9a75Y" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Flowers</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (Shhhh don’t tell anyone. This is, strictly speaking, a Rock ‘n Roll family), just to remind myself to exercise </span><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/self-love/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">self-love, self-respect, and self-care</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Thanks Miley!</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Somehow music seems to focus my energy – I know, weird right? It’s as if through the music I can hear and feel the words I put down on paper. Even before I put them on to paper. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It’s something about the creative process for me. It’s an all-encompassing thing – like living and breathing the words through music, through sound and with it – through emotion. It’s like the air I breathe. It’s my motivation. Even when I don’t “feel like it” (yes, that happens. On occasion). </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But then I put on some tunes, and suddenly the words are pouring out of me. Sometimes nonsensical and verbose requiring some hard-handed fine tuning. But it works. For me. It’s my (creative) process.</span></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_16"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Creativity-The-superpower-leading-to-a-happier-and-healthier-life-1-3.jpg" alt="" title="Creativity The superpower leading to a happier and healthier life 1 (3)" class="wp-image-5270" /></span> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_15 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>A life without creativity</strong></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I wasn’t always this way. Working as a lawyer, I didn’t think it allowed for creative pursuits. I always felt like I didn’t have the time. And when I did have the time, I was too tired or too fatigued or too (insert emotion here) to be bothered enough to seek a creative pursuit. And the unfortunate thing about this? Perhaps the obvious thing about this…. I always felt like half a person. Not living to my full potential. A massive piece of my </span><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/product/puzzle-box/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">puzzle</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> being completely devoid of anything outside of my small world of law that I had created – a big, empty, colourless hole. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I guess – for me at least – being creative, being a writer (even when my writing is not perfect or doesn’t hit the right “notes” or perhaps finds the wrong readership) is like peering – even a tiny bit – into my soul. I relate – entirely – to </span><a href="https://www.britannica.com/biography/George-Bernard-Shaw" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">George Bernard Shaw</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> when he said – </span></p> <p style="padding-left: 40px;"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">“You use a glass mirror to see your face. You use works of art to see your soul”. </span></i></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Being able to “see your soul” through works of the creative process – how magic is </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">that?!</span></i></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Something anyone can do. In my opinion. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We’re all born with</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> a means to be creativ</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">e, to express ourselves, to standout. And that could be in so many different ways – painting (even badly), writing poetry (even if it sounds childish), drawing (even if it’s a stickman) or applying make-up (even if you look like a clown). </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We’re all able to be creative. And in that realisation – whole new worlds open up to </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">all of us</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_17"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Creativity-The-superpower-leading-to-a-happier-and-healthier-life-1-2.jpg" alt="" title="Creativity The superpower leading to a happier and healthier life 1 (2)" class="wp-image-5268" /></span> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_16 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>Creative pursuits assist poor mental health</strong></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Studies show that being creative and having creative pursuits assist with poor mental health.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In the article </span><a href="https://diversushealth.org/the-mental-health-benefits-of-creativity/#:~:text=How%20Does%20Creativity%20Improve%20Mental,function%20of%20our%20immune%20systems" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Mental Health Benefits of Creativity</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, the following is set out – </span></p> <blockquote><p><em>“Science continues to reveal encouraging evidence about the mental health benefits of creativity. From painting to potting plants, planning parties and beyond, creative activities help us perceive the world in new and different ways. Creativity allows us to create beautiful work, problem-solve, and refresh our bodies and minds. Having fun positively impacts our mental health.</em></p> <p><em>Being creative can increase positive emotions, reduce depressive symptoms and anxiety, and improve the function of our immune systems. The Journal of Positive Psychology supports these findings, stating that “spending time on creative goals during the day is associated with higher activated positive affect.” Positive affect refers to positive moods people experience including joy, happiness, and optimism”.</em></p></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I’m sold on this idea that creativity is vital to good mental health. Because when I’m writing, when I’m listening to music, I can feel the words flow through me and I feel completely at peace. I feel centred. I feel happy. And it’s within this state of “flow” when I’m almost in my own world (“in the zone”) that I become mindful of what I’m thinking and feeling and how the writing is adding to my overall happiness for that day. And that feels like a massive accomplishment. It’s a beautiful thing. Almost euphoric. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But there are times when I’m not so happy. There are times when I have undeniable writer’s block. And putting even one word on a page seems almost impossible. In this space I feel stuck. Uncentred, like I – yet again – have a void inside my soul. A feeling I remember from working as a lawyer and having no creative outlet. Whatsoever. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Being creative and having a place to express helps me be productive. It helps me be the best version of myself. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So, when I’m blocked and cannot write, I must turn to other methods of creative expression in order to push through the bad mojo I find myself in. </span></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_18"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Creativity-The-superpower-leading-to-a-happier-and-healthier-life-1-4.jpg" alt="" title="Creativity The superpower leading to a happier and healthier life 1 (4)" class="wp-image-5272" /></span> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_17 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>The importance of finding a creative outlet</strong></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Firstly, let’s be honest for a second. It’s not like I’m the next Hemingway. So, this “writer’s” block that I experience is nothing compared to the great writers of our time. I’m not some pseudo artistic savant that has all the answers to all things “creative”. Believe me.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But I do know one thing – tapping into this creative part of my mind (and soul) has opened up so many other parts that I didn’t know existed. Like my penchant for </span><a href="https://www.poetrysoup.com/member_area/my_poems.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">amateur poetry </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">and painting. Who knew I could do those things? </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It took a lot of doing </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">“a little bit of this and a little bit of that”</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> but I found my happy place. The point is you have to </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">start somewhere</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Because if you don’t take your first step, you will always be stuck in exactly the same place. And who wants that?</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In an article by </span><a href="https://diversushealth.org/the-mental-health-benefits-of-creativity/#:~:text=How%20Does%20Creativity%20Improve%20Mental,function%20of%20our%20immune%20systems" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Diversus Health</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, they mention –</span></p> <blockquote><p><em>“Practicing creativity is a wellness exercise, similar to having a healthy diet and steady workout routine. Even if we do not think of ourselves as artists or creative innovators, we all have a varying amount of energy, intelligence, and discipline to expand on our ability to express ourselves and be creative.</em></p> <p><em>“The more we practice using our imagination, the better we will be able to express ourselves without the need of verbal language,”</em> says Nguyen. “<em>This also helps us to turn inward amid this noisy world.”</em></p></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To add a little more credence to the statement (and article) above, in a research paper by the University of Tennessee titled </span><a href="https://trace.tennessee.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1137&context=utk_nurspubs" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Creativity in Older Adults: A Plethora of Possibilities</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> by Kenneth D Phillips it’s set out that –</span></p> <blockquote><p><em>“Creativity interventions have been shown to positively affect mental and physiological health indicators. The process of creating and one’s attitude toward life may be more important than the actual product or tangible outcome.”</em></p></blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">That’s such an important point. </span><b><i>The process of creating is more important than the thing you create.</i></b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Creating – for creating’s sake – is more beneficial than we know. Whether it’s to ease your anxiety, stress or depression or whether it’s to help open your mind so that you can learn to focus (increasing productivity). The evidence in support of this is overwhelming. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ok, enough trying to convince you. It’s evident that we need to get creative … and fast! So, let’s get started</span></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_18 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>My creative passions</strong></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It will be a trial by error approach to see what works for you – to find that thing (or maybe number of things) that gets you to your place of zen.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But create – for the sake of our mental health – we must. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Now before we get into the ways you can do this, let me add – nowadays finding that extra coin to spend on something “pleasurable” seems like a bit of a tall ask. But let me assure you that there are things you can do that won’t cost a solar panel (South African’s will understand this). And there’s so much to choose from – </span></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_19 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_30 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_19"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/1.png" alt="" title="1" class="wp-image-1486" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_31 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_19 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong><i>Pick up a paint brush</i></strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> – it may sound so pedestrian, but when I paint something, and it turns out even remotely resembling something that could pass as an “</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">amateur wannabe arteeest</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">”, I’m immensely proud. I feel like I have done something extraordinary. And once I’ve done that, I kind of feel like I could do anything. I get covered in paint, mess all over the place and absolutely love it! I have the time of my life. I especially like working with acrylic paint – its thick and gooey and feels like it carries substance. I get a lot of my supplies from <a href="https://artsavingsclub.co.za/product-category/paint/acrylic-paints/">Artsavingsclub</a></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">. But you can pick up a bunch of art supplies really cheaply, if you google. If you don’t know where to start, how about looking to YouTube for help. Personally, I love </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/surajfinearts" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">SurajFineArts – Abstract ART</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> – he posts full tutorials on how to go about doing an abstract painting (my favourite kind). Before you know it, and with absolutely no experience, you come out with something that seems pretty impressive. Just take a look at what I did (some of my first using Suraj’s video tutorials) – </span></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_20"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1303" height="713" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Creativity-The-superpower-leading-to-a-happier-and-healthier-life-1-1-1.jpg" alt="" title="Creativity The superpower leading to a happier and healthier life 1 (1)" class="wp-image-5267" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_20 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_32 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_21"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/2.png" alt="" title="2" class="wp-image-1487" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_33 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_20 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><strong><i>Try your hand at pottery </i></strong><i>– </i><span style="font-weight: 400;">there’s nothing like getting your hands well and truly “dirty”. Sticking your hands into the clay and feeling it with each fingertip, getting your senses going. And with a little imagination a ball of clay can become a mug or a platter. I kid you not. I know what you must be thinking – what about a kiln? Sure some clay needs to be fired and glazed but you can also make something just as cool with </span><a href="https://eve-artsupplies.co.za/products/air-drying-clay?variant=34014363156611" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">air drying clay</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Air drying clay is best for sculptures or plaques or something else crafty. I decided to make a platter out of air drying clay and then painted it with different layers of chalk paint to create something – not quite useful – but a lot of fun! If you need some help with where to even begin, take a look at </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtES7Gd5gHE" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Jonthepotter</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> – I love his video’s!</span></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_22"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="854" height="194" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Creativity-The-superpower-leading-to-a-happier-and-healthier-life-1-3-1.jpg" alt="" title="Creativity The superpower leading to a happier and healthier life 1 (3)" class="wp-image-5271" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_21 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_34 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_23"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/3.jpg" alt="" title="3" class="wp-image-1488" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_35 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_21 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><strong><i>Restore old furniture </i></strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">– you’ll often find me on days off at antique furniture stores or browsing online auctions for old rickety pieces of furniture. To me there is nothing more beautiful than something with a story, something old and worn in with its own past. And I just drool at that. Good quality wood is key. I know it sounds odd, but my grandfather taught me a lot about different types of wood, what partridge wood is good for or camphor wood – what the grains mean. I loved that. So now I rescue furniture (my home is FULL of antiques either inherited or salvaged). I don’t paint every piece of furniture – some things are just too special to paint. But others are just begging for a lick of paint and an adornment or two. I use nails and often wood glue (to my husband’s dismay) to fix things that need fixing, replace door handles or polish them up (especially if they are brass) and then get to the painting part. I use </span><a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Annie Sloan Chalk Paint</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (which has just brought out two new colours – yay). It’s available worldwide! Sloan even has stencils and gilding waxes (which I use a lot). There is a colour for every room (and mood) and even different paints for different surfaces. It’s so much fun adding a slick of paint to your furniture – why buy new when you can fix up something old? I took an armoire from my late grandmother which was not in the best shape and looking terribly drab. She was begging for a makeover. So, I gave her a pretty dramatic one. I used Athenian Black, added embellishments, and then gilded the hell out of it. It’s not to everyone’s taste but she is grand and dramatic. Just like my gran. Watch </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zU3SX_eXpQQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Annie Sloan’s tutorials</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to get you started.</span></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_24"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="376" height="554" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Creativity-The-superpower-leading-to-a-happier-and-healthier-life-1-2-1.jpg" alt="" title="Creativity The superpower leading to a happier and healthier life 1 (2)" class="wp-image-5269" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_22"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_36 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_22 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>Ways you can get creative</strong></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Those are some of the things that I have chosen to do – they are my creative outlet. And they won’t all work for you. So, I have included some other suggestions below –</span></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_23 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_37 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_25"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/1.png" alt="" title="1" class="wp-image-1486" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_38 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_23 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><strong><i>Learn to cook</i></strong><span style="font-weight: 400;"> – I say learn because not everyone is born with this innate ability to produce a meal that gets mouths watering. Also, with the price of food nowadays, it’s something we have all got to learn to do. Sometimes that means using the basic ingredients you have in your pantry. </span><a href="https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/recipe-collections-favorites/popular-ingredients/recipes-using-kitchen-staples" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Realsimple</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> has some great easy recipes that you can use with pantry staples (or supposed staples in any event). It’s kind of fun when you throw a couple of things into a pot and somehow miraculously produce an enjoyable meal. In my case, it took a few tries, but it can be done. And it’s fun learning. </span></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_24 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_39 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_26"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/2.png" alt="" title="2" class="wp-image-1487" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_40 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_24 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><strong><i>Try knitting</i></strong><i> – </i><span style="font-weight: 400;">this is not only good for concentration (you </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">have t</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">o focus), but once you get the hang of it, you can knit scarves and sweaters galore! I can’t say that knitting has ever been quite my thing. But I do see the appeal and realise that it is a skill (yes, a skill) that’s both creative and useful too. It’s also super trendy right now. So, grab some knitting needles, get some cheaper yarn, and get knitting. Before you know it, you will be gifting scarves to everyone on their Birthday – saving money and being creative at the same time! Personally, I will be watching </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Egp4NRhlMDg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">this video</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to begin with. </span></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_25 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_41 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_27"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/3.jpg" alt="" title="3" class="wp-image-1488" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_42 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_25 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><i><strong>Gardening</strong> – </i><span style="font-weight: 400;">I truly believe that some people are born with a green thumb and other people are not. But having said that, I love spending time in a garden centre. All the plants and the colours, the scent! It gives me hope. Even if my garden doesn’t quite resemble anything hopeful. But I do believe that you can learn, and you can propagate plants that you already have (again saving money) – to start to design your own garden, even if it’s a small garden, and make it a happy one. You can start learning how by watching </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ILDnpeCELeY"><span style="font-weight: 400;">this tutorial</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_26 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_43 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_28"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/3.jpg" alt="" title="3" class="wp-image-1488" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_44 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_26 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><i><strong>Make your own board game</strong> –</i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> it has been said that Frieda knows a thing or two about making her own board game. I kid you not. I read about it in this </span><a href="https://scoutlife.org/hobbies-projects/projects/172763/how-to-make-your-own-board-game/">article</a> <span style="font-weight: 400;">and thought – “sure I can do that” but to my dismay failed dismally. It just wasn’t fun enough (the level of “enough” is a personal choice). But if you’re short on funds and want to make something fun for you and your partner and/or family to do – then this is it. This is Frieda’s family during Christmas 2008 tackling the “Family Quiz” – 300 questions about her family and the shenanigans that they had individually and collectively got up to! I’ve no doubt a lot of fun was had by all!</span></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_29"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="604" height="452" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Creativity-The-superpower-leading-to-a-happier-and-healthier-life-1-1.jpg" alt="" title="Creativity The superpower leading to a happier and healthier life 1 (1)" class="wp-image-5266" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_27"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_45 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_27 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If none of the above is quite your thing, there’s still </span><a href="https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/research/education/university-practice-partnerships/learning-across-the-curriculum/art-resources/pebble-painting" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">pebble painting</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (and this involves going out in search of the perfect pebble and only then painting something that reminds you of the walk). It’s a “whole thing”. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lastly, if you’re a </span><a href="https://www.flyfishersinternational.org/Learn/Learning-Center-Resources/Fly-Tying/Beginner-Fly-Tying-Manual?gclid=Cj0KCQjw2cWgBhDYARIsALggUhr_h_GRxucvZ2nySDNPW3L3P_mJorIZHj32c_SJHu-NuSrOdkoGhgAaAiW0EALw_wcB" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">fly-fisherman</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (I’m what’s known as a “fishing widow”) and you are dead keen on the perfect fly, then learning to tie one could be your thing. There’s so much here I wouldn’t even know where to begin. But when you have famous friends (and mentors) like </span><a href="https://www.thefloatingfly.com/peter-brigg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Peter Brigg</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><a href="http://www.tomsutcliffe.co.za/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tom Sutcliffe</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">,</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> my husband has learnt a thing or two about fly fishing and fly tying. And if anything, it keeps him out of trouble and has taught him colours like chartreuse (</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">”if it aint chartreuse it aint no use” </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">apparently). In all honesty (and don’t tell him I said this but…), it brings him peace and makes him far more amenable to shoe shopping. It’s a really healthy, happy pursuit. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The point is – there are so many creative “things” out there to try! </span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">So, find your place of happiness, your thing of peace and then embrace it. Break away from your everyday routine, indulge in fun activities – create art, sing (even if it’s really badly), dance (“like no one’s watching”) and play (let your inner child free). </span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Not only will it make you feel good, but it’ll give you renewed hope, a renewed sense of self and will revitalise you. Because one thing’s for sure, whether you are painting, doing pottery, restoring furniture, writing poetry, making a board game, painting a pebble or even tying a fly – you’re not thinking about your worries or stressing about tomorrow. You’re focused on the here and now and are hopefully bringing yourself inner peace and happiness. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mental health in good shape? Check!</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I think this quote may be the best motivator for being creative there is – </span></p> <blockquote> <p>“A creative life is an amplified life. It’s a bigger life, a happier life, an expanded life, and a hell of a lot more interesting life”<b> –</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Elizabeth Gilbert</span></p> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you really have no clue where to begin or what to do, why not join Frieda’s </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Creative Breakfast for Women</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> – and put this article into practice! </span><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/newsletter-sign-up/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sign up for the Braving Boundaries Newsletter</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to find out more or contact Frieda Levycky </span><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/contact-me/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">here</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_divider et_pb_divider_1 et_pb_divider_position_bottom et_pb_space"><div class="et_pb_divider_internal"></div></div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_28 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_46 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_30"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Alicia-Koch-The-Legal-Belletrist.jpg" alt="" title="Alicia Koch - The Legal Belletrist" class="wp-image-1704" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_47 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_28 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p>About the Author, <strong><em>Alicia Koch, Founder of The Legal Belletrist.</em></strong></p> <p>Alicia, an admitted attorney with over 10 years PQE, and now a legal writer and researcher, has established The Legal Belletrist to assist companies (in different sectors) to write well-researched articles that speak to each company’s core business, enabling growth and commercialism.</p> <p>Click here to visit <a href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">The Legal Belletrist website</a>.</p> <p><strong>Email: <a href="mailto:alicia@thebelletrist.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">alicia@thebelletrist.com</a> </strong></p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/creativity-the-superpower-leading-to-a-happier-and-healthier-life/">Creativity: The superpower leading to a happier and healthier life</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://bravingboundaries.com/creativity-the-superpower-leading-to-a-happier-and-healthier-life/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>