Elevate the Everyday

Last week I heard someone suggest that we should “elevate the everyday,” and I’ve been thinking about that ever since. What does “elevate the everyday” mean? And how can we benefit from doing it?

The term simply means to pay attention to the little things, the small changes you can make to feel better, lift your spirits, improve your job performance, upgrade your health, find more pleasure in living, and thus, enjoy life more. So, I started thinking about what I could do, about what small changes could I implement that wouldn’t cost much – if anything – and would make me feel better about myself, my work, my environment.

Here’s my list – some of which I am already doing and others that I intend to try. You’re welcome to adopt some of mine, but I encourage you to come up with your own.

Make the bed every day.

This is one I already do. Having it done gives me a sense of order that makes me feel more organized and in control.

Drink more water.

Few people drink as much water as the body requires. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommends at least 101 ounces of water per day for men, which is a little under 13 cups. Women should drink at least 74 ounces, a little over 9 cups. For many of us, that’s hard to swallow. (Pun intended.) So what’s the solution? Try making it more enjoyable by adding slices of fresh cucumber, mint, or slices of orange, lemon, or lime. You’ll feel as if you’re at a spa!

Clean and organize a drawer.

We all have those drawers that cause us to feel yucky every time we open it. What is it for you? Your sock drawer, the “junk drawer” in the kitchen (the name says it all), the top drawer of your desk? Pick one and get to work. It’s not a huge project, but it will yield big rewards.

Clean up your car.

A good inside and out clean up will level up your attitude and will give you more pride in your ride. Every time you get from work, running errands, taking the kids to school pick up any trash in the car and throw it away. Easy!

Before you end your workday, organize your workspace.

Make sure the top of your desk is neat and free of clutter. It’s been said that “a good day begins the night before.” And it’s so true. Sitting down at an uncluttered desk is a great way to start your day.

Try “elevating the everyday.” You’ll be glad you did.