Do you ever get that sort-of-stuck-in-a-rut-bored-with-your-routine-blah feeling? When I am in that spot what has helped me in the past is to reach out. Reach out to friends. Reach out to family. Reach out to acquaintances. Simply get up and step out of my comfort zone. Make a plan. Move forward.

Anticipation boosts our level of happiness. Having something to look forward to puts a smile on our face and makes our heart beat a little faster.

My 82 year old widowed mother likes to have a full dance card. It completely shifts her mood, attitude and state of being. Living alone there are times of the day that are a bit lonely and uncomfortable for her, but she has found a way to shift toward the light. My mom has regularly scheduled activities throughout her week. One day she babysits her great-grand children, another day she volunteers at a nursing home. Then there is tai-chi, coffee and lunch dates, church, book club, zumba and much more.

Her life wasn’t like this when she was raising her four children. She had work and us. Now at this stage in her life, I have never known her to have more friends or a fuller calendar. She anticipates her time with her grand babies, her YMCA class, the people she’ll see and the experiences she will share.

Having things to look forward to keeps us moving forward rather than circling as we stay stagnant. It lifts our spirits when we are down.

For me having things marked on my calendar keeps me connected to all that fills me. Keeps me in touch with my passions and my purpose. I have regular dates on my calendar for the activities, people and events that rejuvenate and recharge my batteries.

What about you? Do you need someone else to kick you into gear and ask you to the party? What would shift in your life if you were the one to pick up the phone, make a date and get it on the calendar? Whether it’s starting a book club, attending a play, taking a class or meeting a friend for a walk – find out what you look forward to and make a date!

Cheers, Jenny