It is very uncommon to hear the phrase "life is easy," because it certainly is not. Life is full of challenges that will test us to the very core. However, life is often only as hard as you make it. Here are 10 things to avoid if you want life to run a little more smoothly.
1. You forget to pray
Prayer is powerful. There are challenges in our lives that we cannot overcome on our own. When you ask God for help through life's trials, He is more willing to help than when you try to tackle the challenge on your own. Make your life prayerful and you'll see mountains become small hills.
2. You don't ask for help
If you are having a hard time, ask someone for assistance. You can ask for small tasks, such as preparing dinner for your family, watching your children while you handle the situation or asking God for help through prayer to overcome your stumbling blocks. Never feel like you have to do everything on your own.
3. You worry
Don't waste your entire life worrying about the small things. Instead, focus and accomplish just one or two things at a time. When you worry about too many things at once, it will wear you down and start to affect your overall mood and demeanor.
4. You stay up late
Sleep is so important. In fact, according to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep problems can significantly diminish health, alertness and safety. Untreated sleep disorders have been linked to hypertension, heart disease, stroke, depression, diabetes and other chronic disorders. When you don't get enough sleep, you are affecting many facets of your life.
5. You avoid church
Practicing religion actually helps you have a better outlook on life. A study, based at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, found that religious 12th graders in the United States have higher self-esteem and a better outlook on life than non-religious ones. This can be true for all ages. Attending church gives you hope throughout difficult challenges. Additionally, when you attend church regularly, you become more focused on Christ and you are more apt to ask for his help when you face tough trials.
6. You keep a cluttered home
Did you know the messier your home is, the more stressed you become? When your home is clean and tidy, you have an easier time relaxing. When you keep a tidy home, you don't have to worry about routine tasks around the home and you won't waste precious time looking for that one shoe.
7. You hold grudges
You have control over your own emotions. If you choose to hold a grudge against someone, that is your own doing. Over time, grudges wear you down. Some can even turn into obsessions. Sometimes you may even seek revenge over a grudge, which will cause even more hatred and darkness in your life. Letting things go is the easiest route, and is a sure way to happiness.
8. You don't make time for yourself
Just like in an airplane, you must put your oxygen mask on first before you assist someone else. In life, you need to take care of yourself before you take care of everyone else. This means eating well, and getting regular exercise and adequate rest. It also means to frequently perform activities you enjoy, which will help boost your mental well-being.
9. You don't spend enough time with those you love
Spending time together as a family produces strong benefits. For example, teenagers with parents at home after school are less likely to experience emotional distress. Additionally, children who spend quality time outside the home with their dads experience better academic success. Spending time with those you love is something that is easy and worth it.
10. You don't show your affection
For some people, saying "I love you" can be a struggle. But is is important. Your words and actions toward those around you make a huge impact on your daily life. One study shows that words of affection help lower hormones that are elevated during stressful times.
You don't have to live life frustrated and overwhelmed. By paying attention to the small things you do each day, you'll be able to climb life's mountains with much more ease.
