Give Yourself 30 Minutes of Screen-Free Time in the Morning

This may seem like a straightforward suggestion, yet many of us (myself included) keep our phones right by our beds. While I often use my phone as a white noise machine, I've realized that this habit is detrimental to my well-being.

By avoiding the temptation to check my phone first thing in the morning, I allow my mind to wake up without the initial flood of information. Research consistently indicates that the immediate use of our phones can heighten stress and anxiety, which is certainly counterproductive to cultivating peace.

Limit Your Social Media Exposure

As someone who relies on social media for my job in real estate, this isn’t about abandoning social media altogether. Nevertheless, I’ve deleted my accounts numerous times because I've noticed how much happier I feel without them.

For a balanced approach, I keep social media off my phone, which forces me to use my laptop instead. If I must check something and my laptop isn’t available, I use my phone’s web browser. I also curate my social media connections, avoiding influencers and negative content to maintain a peaceful digital environment.

Practice Daily Gratitude

Initially, the idea of practicing gratitude felt trivial to me, reminiscent of elementary school exercises. However, I’ve discovered that incorporating gratitude into my daily routine can be incredibly grounding.

Whether I’m boiling pasta or dealing with my daughter’s incessant requests, I take a moment to appreciate the simple blessings in my life, like access to running water or the time I spend with my child. Acknowledging my trials while also recognizing my blessings invites peace into my day.

Breathe and Find Your Calm

As a busy mom juggling multiple jobs, the idea of relaxation often feels out of reach. In those moments of overwhelming stress, I remind myself to breathe deeply.

By consciously relaxing my shoulders and closing my eyes, I envision a tranquil place and focus on my breath. This not only calms my own nerves but also models healthy emotional regulation for my daughter.

Eliminate Unnecessary Stressors

This is perhaps the most challenging yet essential aspect of fostering peace in our lives. Stressors from various sources—be it family, work, or social obligations—are unavoidable.

While we can’t eliminate all stress, we can take steps to reduce it significantly. For instance:

• I’ve distanced myself from friends who always bring drama into conversations.
• I share less about parenting with family members who tend to offer unsolicited advice.
• I provide guidance to clients but refrain from taking on their issues.

These decisions are not easy, but they are crucial in protecting my peace of mind.

Ultimately, achieving peace requires active engagement. It’s not enough to sit back and hope for tranquility to find us. The responsibility for cultivating our peace lies within us, and with conscious effort, you too can claim your serenity.