3 ways to increase peace

Finding peace has always felt like a struggle for me, and I know it is for many of my clients as well. We live in a world of constant chaos and anxiety. Let’s find small ways to increase feelings of peace and decrease stress.

Stop People-Pleasing

Always saying “yes” or putting your own thoughts and feelings on the backburner can really take a toll on a person mentally. It’s nearly impossible to feel good when you are placing such value on others’ opinions, primarily at your own expense. Start living in accordance with who you want to be and focusing on the things that benefit your own mental health rather than worrying about outside expectations. When who we are and what we say align, we will feel less confusion, frustration, and discontentment.

Set Intentions

Prioritizing and establishing goals is a great way to combat anxiety. Often, we feel that we aren’t “doing enough” or find ourselves struggling to find time in the day to accomplish all the things. Make a list of goals and carve out set times throughout your week to take steps. Cutting out even small pockets of time for personal goals or interests can make a world of difference to feeling more balanced and peaceful. Haven’t even had time to set goals? What a perfect opportunity to start.

Be Still

Silly as it may sound, this is an actual step toward peace. In the hustle and bustle of the day, with the world at our fingertips with an iPhone, I find it to be true—we really don’t spend much time actually doing nothing. Removing distractions like electronics, finding a quiet place, breathing and just being holds inherent value. And yet, we so often find excuses and reasons that this can’t happen! I find spending time in nature helps create a sense of peace for me, and I don’t do it nearly enough. Incorporate a time to be still and cut out distractions for five to ten minutes a day.