A daily self-imposed rule that I intently practice is that of never give unsolicited advice unless it’s my job or unless asked. Although my hyperactive mind is always spinning to create some sort of solution or stop gap for all problems that cross my path,  I know there’s nothing worse than a person who consistently tries to solve another’s issues.

On a flight back from a recent work trip, I thought to myself, “if a stranger asked me for a piece of advice (non-specific to a particular circumstance), what would I say?”

Luckily, since this is my website I get to play by my rules and share the unsolicited advice that you never asked for. Enjoy!

1) Don’t stop saying “Thank you”

 Be polite and show appreciation. No matter how busy or “important” you become, always remember that there is value in showing gratitude to those who do something to help you… even if they’re being paid (e.g., service workers). There’s humility in being thankful. You’ve worked hard to be where you are, but there’s a good chance that somewhere along the way you received support from a person who really didn’t need to be there for you at all. Stay humble, say “Thank you, and mean it.

2) Limit the clothes in your closet

 When I wake up in the morning, there’s already so much on my mind. Tasks pile up before I have a chance to make it out of my apartment. I’ve learned that reducing my wardrobe options has allowed me to focus morning brain power on the things that matter the most in my life. It doesn’t mean I can’t still have personality through my clothes, but it does mean that I can concentrate a little more intently on aspects of my life that are significantly more critical than deciding which of my (hypothetical) 58 shirts I feel like wearing on any given day. It also makes doing laundry much more manageable.

3) If you have a choice, then always choose water.

Really not a whole lot of complexity behind this, other than it makes me feel great and helps maintain a healthy state of mind. Beyond that there’s a mile-long list of other health benefits. Feel free to start here: 16 Impressive Benefits Of Drinking Water

4) Book the Aisle

I’m 6’2” so my height induced problems aren’t like most people’s. However, outside of having long stems that occasionally need to be stretched on a 6 hour flight, I always book an aisle seat in order to avoid any chance of potential travel anxiety. Making a quick exit to the bathroom, rushing to make a connector, or just getting off a crowded flight in general all come easy with the aisle. I swear, even just thinking about having a little extra freedom psychologically puts me in a relaxed state of mind while on a plane. Traveling already induces enough apprehension as it is. Why add to it if you have the power to reduce?

5) Use the ol’ “biting on the pen” trick

My coveted life hack that has allowed me to maintain happiness in the most stressful of moments. If I’m having a terrible day or get pushed to the brink of a meltdown, then I (quickly) find a pen, place it across my back molars, then gently bite down for 10 minutes. Weird huh? What happens is this action causes your facial muscles to force a simulated smile and triggers the brain to release the same endorphins that are present when you’re laughing or actually happy and smiling.

I bet you’ll never ask to borrow a pen from me now…

6) Be different and break the rules when you can/when appropriate

I said Top 5, but I changed my mind. Why not? There’s a time and a place to break the rules.

 

-JO