Do Something! Essay Example

Positive Daydreaming

I recently found myself becoming stressed about assignments, school work, family  life, and private relationships. I researched the internet for methods to release stress, improve my energy level, and productivity. I wanted to do more in less time, and have energy left in the end of the day, to accomplish my dreams, watch a movie, or spend quality time with my friends. I was dreaming about a more energetic, more organized “me”.

Positive Thinking

The first obstacle I had was that I did not believe in myself. Indeed, all my life I had been disorganized, rushing to somewhere, missing deadlines and appointments, and my normal facial expression showed a great level of anxiety. I was leaving everything for the last minute, and became very stressed when I only had a little time left. My mind constantly kept on buzzing. I had to imagine myself being relaxed, calm, and organized, who can take time off, get things done in time, and succeed. I used mental images to reinforce my belief that I could really become a happier person.

Do It

I read somewhere that a new habit takes about three weeks to stick, therefore, I gave myself a three week trial to implement changes that I found most suitable. After a thorough research on the internet, I found one technique that seemed powerful, still effortless: Tai-Chi. I previously thought about taking on yoga classes, but I simply could not find the time to attend, and it would have cost money. Therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and AFT tapping seemed complicated and time-consuming. However, I found an interesting video on YouTube from Holistic Health, lasting only eight minutes. The moves introduced in the video seemed easy, and I decided to do the eight minutes exercise every morning after waking up, and every night before I go to bed. I knew that I would easily forget about the new schedule, so I created a positive reinforcement poster and put it next to my bed, so it reminds me of the new schedule.

I started doing the relaxing Tai Chi exercises (The Fit Indian), even though I realized they were designed for older people. I convinced myself that I had to start slow, and by focusing on the energy around me, I can be more connected to the world, and quieten my mind. After the first day, I felt more relaxed, focused, and started a Google Calendar, where I put down all the important assignment due dates, appointments, and meetings. I carried on doing the exercises at night, and found myself waking up fresher and more relaxed than before. After two weeks, I found that I could do more, my productivity increased, as I started researching for classes and assignments earlier, so I was not stressed when preparing. By the end of the third week, I had two hours to spare on Friday night, and I decided to go to the cinema with my friends. While sticking to the schedule is important, I learned from this experience that motivating one’s self is also important. I looked at the cinema trip as a reward for my efforts, and a pay back for the two times eight minutes I spent every day focusing on my energy and clearing my mind. I finally saw my vision of a more relaxed, organized me come true, and I am planning to continue my daily schedule. I noticed that I smile more, and notice beautiful things more often. Overall, I have accomplished my goal by not being afraid of doing something new.

Works Cited

Holistic Health. “Tai Chi and Quigong.” n.d. Web. <http://centre4holistichealth.co.uk/home/tai-chi-and-qigong/>

The Fit Indian. “Best Tai Chi Exercises for Relaxation – Techniques for Stress Relief” n.d. Web.<http://www.thefitindian.com/best-tai-chi-exercises-for-relaxation/>