OOPSIE DOOPSIE

If you ever get in a rut and think you’re digging deeper and deeper into a hole of humdrum scheduling, it’s time to read this list. Bookmark it. Keep it around. Let it serve as a reminder that there are 8 ways to reignite that passion for life and to just have fun! {Sorry crafty DIY-ers, I’m going a little to the left.}

1. Go for a stroll in a park

Sounds very simple. Probably because it is. Geez. But not just any park. Is there a childhood park you would love to revisit? How about a park that’s a little out of the way but you’ve always wondered about it? Take the time and enjoy the outdoors. Pack snacks, drinks, your kids, a blanket, croquet. Whatever! Get moving. The Vitamin D will do you good.

2. Read a comic book classic

Why not? So, I’m not a huge fan of comic books per se. I never read Marvel or DC comics. However, I did read Archie’s Betty & Veronica. I was part of the fan club. To this day, I totally (silently) geek out over new issues. Love it. And anytime I stand in that grocery check-out line, I always see Archie and the gang looking back at me. Next time this happens to you, whether it’s at the check-out line or book store, grab a comic and flip through it.

3. Tune into a Radio Show or NPR

Might I suggest my absolute favorite program, A Prairie Home Companion?I absolutely love this! If you haven’t heard it, I encourage you to just take a few moments to tune in. And you can’t go wrong with the TED Radio Hour. Don’t worry about being in a car! Dust off that radio, or I suppose you could use your laptop to tune in, and get going on #4.

4. Bake it Up! Shake it Up!

Is there a recipe you have been dying to try? I can see it now – you pinned it months ago and you’re still drooling. Do it! And while you’re at it, pull out that cocktail recipe book you stowed away for a rainy day and make this baking time an event. Celebrate {and validate} all those looong hours you spent pinning. Shoot, document this lil you-occassion on Instagram. For the fellas – if you haven’t admitted yet to eyeing the lady’s Pinterest board, check out Bro Eats. You’re welcome.

5. Plan a Volunteer Outing & Do It

Is there a cause that is near and dear to your heart? Almost everyone has at least one cause/nonprofit/organization that you may follow or think about on a regular basis. Research it and see what you can do in your area to contribute. Whether it’s gathering friends for a morning dog walking session at the local animal shelter or getting family members to walk for a cause, the planning could be just as rewarding as the experience.

6. Get Up Early

Waking up just 30 minutes earlier already gives you a head start on your day. Think about your morning routine and what you could add to that morning just by giving yourself an additional 30 minutes. Is it that breakfast your skipping? What about a morning run? Extra snuggle time with the babe? Finally tearing into that best sellers list? Just remember, try to keep the 30 minutes about you and doing what you want to do. Don’t feel like this is time to get a jump start on work. You’ll have time for that later.

7. Show Gratitude

One of my favorite ways to show gratitude is by sending notes/cards via snail mail. There’s just something about sending/getting a handwritten note that I absolutely love. It adds another level of connectivity that will never be available in an email or text message.  If notes ain’t your thang, check out this amazing list of 50 ways to show gratitude.

8. Snag Something Fun & Unique

Chances are, it’s been a while since you treated yourself to something fun, quirky, interesting. Check out The Grommet or Uncovet. These are two of my new favorite sites to find the unexpected. Whether you grab a treat for yourself or find that item for your next friend’s birthday, it’s worth it. If anything, check them out for the pretty pictures. Go on – no one’s looking.

These aren’t the only things to bash away the nasty  boredom. What activities or hobbies could you add to this list? Share with us! Enjoy!!