#2013alive: Let the Little Things Go!

Welcome to month 2, week 3 of our 12 Months of Wellness. This week is all about trying to relax and let the little things go. You know—when your kids track mud all over your freshly washed floors, or when your spouse forgets to pick up milk on the way home from work after being reminded. Although they’re trivial, they can certainly be that straw that breaks the proverbial camel’s back when we’re tired and stressed. But this week, let’s try to let these things go.

Don’t sweat the small stuff

It’s easier said than done, of course, but it is possible. Here are some strategies.

• Look at the big picture—is it really the mud or the milk that has you upset, or do you have a primary need that’s not being met? Try to come up with ways to address the cause—and not the symptom—of the problem.
• Set aside an hour or two just for quality family time each week. This can really help to reduce our stress level during the week.
• Breathe! When we’re stressed and our breathing is shallow, our brains aren’t receiving enough oxygen.

My story: first day and already a failure?

I have a confession: I’ve been told by my fiancé that I’m a nagger. Even this morning, I forgot all about my 12 Months of Wellness goals and got upset with him for forgetting to put out the garbage and recycling the night before.

Consequently, we started the week annoyed with each other—I was frustrated that he forgot to do one of his chores, and he was frustrated that I was nagging about it. In the moment, I had forgotten to appreciate all the things he does: doing the dishes every day, getting up extra early without complaint to help give our kitten medication for her eye infection, and getting me the occasional surprise latte from my favourite coffee shop!

Have I failed at this week already? No! The 12 Months of Wellness was created as a year-round effort so we can all keep trying (that, and to show that us alive editors are far from perfect!). This week might just be my hardest, but I’m going to keep trying and keep everyone posted!

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