We live in a tough world these days. There are a lot of pressures to be the best, have the most, and still live happy. With all of these pressures comes a lot of negativity. Negativity weighs on you both mentally and physically. Now this is no quick fix method, but I would like to share a few things that help make my world a little better place. 

Start the day with breakfast – I always feel more prepared for the day when I have had something good to eat. Plus, breakfast food is my favorite food. 

Take time throughout the day to do something for yourself that you enjoy- I like to read so I try to read for at least fifteen minutes during the day. It gives my brain a chance to decompress. 

Say hello, good morning, smile and mean it – If you can bring a little brightness to someone else’s day, I promise it will make you feel better as well. 

Be thankful for what you have or what you don’t have – My dad used to tell me this all the time and it never really made sense until I was older. There are a lot worse situations in the world than some, and people all handle it differently, but being thankful for the things you have or the situations you don’t have to deal with is a huge benefit to your mental peace. Life is not meant to be taken on alone, so support those around you who are struggling. They may not see the light of all they have to be thankful for but some day they will.

Eat healthy snacks and drink water. I have recently started trying to be healthier and avoid the break room donuts. I found that drinking a ton of water and eating less carb dense foods has helped my focus and energy throughout the day. 

Chase your true dreams – I know we all get in the work week rut, but try to accomplish one thing that helps you achieve your dream.  Marathons are accomplished putting one foot in front of the other. 

Regardless of whether you are a fellow extension agent, parent, policeman, teacher, nurse, astronaut or 4-H member and no matter what you face in your daily life that you take the time to hug those around you a little longer, take time to enjoy the day, and be the change you want to see in the world. 

Megan Seltzer is the Area Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development.