18 realistic ways to become a happier, more chill person in 2018....

[FM123]

.....because it was basically impossible to be one this year.

(#1 Tip - take little breaks from the news, really, do this!)

What a year it has been. From current events ― including political turmoil and high-profile allegations of sexual misconduct in several industries ― to regular life stressors, it’s been a loooong 365 days.

If you’re overthinking everything and stressed beyond measure, you’re certainly not alone. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Say goodbye to 2017 ― and some of the negative emotions that came with it ― by adopting a few of these expert- and research-backed habits in the new year. They certainly won’t solve everything, but they’ll help make you feel a little calmer and happier in the moment. Baby steps, right?

Research shows that negative news can poorly affect your mental health. Simply put, it’s absolutely essential to take time away from the barrage of bad news stories. Experts recommend this to their patients, and do it themselves to keep their own stress under control. Here are some tips on how to take care of yourself during a chaotic news cycle.

[link:https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-to-be-happier-next-year_us_5a381f75e4b0c65287ab8319?ncid=inblnkushpmg00000009|

[NRaleighLiberal]

1. Interesting - we do just about all of them

#1 - we cut the cable nearly 10 years ago and don't watch TV
#2 - working on it!
#3 - my daughter is helping me do this much better
#4 - not so much (but we loved Fargo Season 3 - more music and books, less movies or shows these days)
#5, 6, 7 (all the time!), 8 (trips, not shopping!), 9 (we have to!), 10 (been doing it for years), 11 (hardest to do in the trump days), 12 (working on it), 13 (yes), 14 (yes), 15 (yes), 16 (working on it), 17 (yes!), 18 (not really my nature - it is all about balance for me).

I can vouch that this is a good list. Key is #1 - tune out on occasion - and turn off the TV!

[FM123]

2. I would love to read your version of this article NRaleighLiberal...

Any chance you could put something together for us before the new year? (I know it's a lot to ask, but your posts are always so great)

[NRaleighLiberal]

3. that is very kind of you....let me ponder your request (you took me by surprise!)....

[FM123]

4. No pressure, honestly.

Remember #2 - sometime you just gotta say no 😀