Homework, laundry and the dishes

As a new CreComm student I’ve noticed my agenda book has been filling up at an alarming new pace. I’m definitely up for the challenge and excel when I’m busy. Actually, I enjoy being busy. Who wants to have nothing to do? Life is so much more exciting when you’re experiencing it at full speed. I even tackled three jobs at once while still going to university.

I’m also good at procrastinating. Procrastination, prolonging the inevitable, does not mix well my agenda book, which reminds me I have another project.

Earlier this year I had the amazing opportunity to go to Cuba for two weeks. Before I left for the first week I picked up “The Happiness Project” by Gretchen Rubin at the University bookstore. I figured it would be a nice easy read for the beach, and I was right. I discovered a lot of interesting ways to feel happy, even in tougher times. Throughout my blog I’ll be referencing Rubin as I share new ways I found to feel happy and also the little things that make me smile.

My copy is a bit worn, but that's how you can tell it's a good book. It's great to reference and lend out. 

One of Rubin’s ways to feel happy is tackle a nagging task. I found this tactic especially useful. There appears to be a positive correlation between my ever growing to-do list and the clutter in my room. My jobs add up and weigh on my mind. One way I make myself feel better is get started and don’t stop. After I finish my chores and assignments, the ones I've put off for a couple of days, there's a sense of relief. It's a win-win situation: house is clean, homework is done, and now I have free time.

Last night I cleaned my room, vacuumed, did the dishes, wash and folded my laundry, and scrubbed my bathtub. I contacted my employer about shifts and completed one project and started another. Finally, I had tackled my to-do list. After a lovely productive evening, I feel great. Better yet, I have the time for the things I enjoy. 

Some nagging tasks will always be there, like vacuuming. It’s a part of my routine. Rubin said, “One of the best ways to lift your mood is to engineer an easy success, such as tackling a long-delayed chore”. Next up is cleaning out my closet! Sit down and write out a list of tasks that need to be done. Cross out each one as you do them. It’s a simple, easy way to feel happy. 

P.S. I added a new page! Junk from my iPod! Check it out -> the jam for this week is Tongue tied by Grouplove