Surprise Yourself: Embracing Spontaneity

Many people are born planners and take comfort in daily rituals; weekly schedules and long-term plans for their future and often find it difficult to deviate from the plan they set in motion. Conflict often arises when events conspire to delay the schedule or derail the plans altogether. If you are the type of person who is a born planner and sticks to the plan no matter what arises, you may find yourself in need of a little spontaneity.

Sticking to schedules and making plans often serve as an important way that you can meet your obligations while staying focused on your goals. At the same time that plans can be effective, there comes a time when a little spontaneity will serve you well. Studies have shown that you can practice being impulsive and that you should embrace this as a way to keep your mind nimble and your spirit flexible to better weather life's many surprises.

Add Some Spontaneity to Your Life

Make a Change of Scenery

One of the easiest ways to add a fresh twist to your day is to make a change of scenery. It can be as simple as taking your lunch outside, driving a different route or trying a new restaurant. If you always eat breakfast at the same diner every Saturday morning, switch it up and try a new restaurant or go at a different time. You might be surprised at just how different this change in scenery can help you see your day in a new light.

Accept an Invitation

There are times in your life when you should set aside what you planned to do and accept an invitation. Whether it's a last-minute offer for coffee with an old friend or a surprise invite extended by an acquaintance, see what happens when you say yes to the next invitation you receive. And don't be afraid to accept even if it means you have to rearrange your errands or other plans that you made for the day.

Schedule Free Time

While it may seem impossible to plan spontaneity, it can be done. Instead of recording an event or activity on your calendar, put in a block of time for free time. When the time comes do whatever moves you whether it's a walk, a cup of coffee or just sitting in a quiet house enjoying a moment of peace.

Break a Rule

Of course, you have to be careful about breaking rules, but some rules are meant to be broken! Go a little wild and break that rule about not eating cookies in bed, eating dessert first, or wearing white after Labor Day. You can get the thrill of being a rule-breaker without dire consequences.

Start a Conversation

Challenge yourself to start a conversation with a stranger. Whether you strike up a casual conversation with the cashier at the store or someone waiting in line, let yourself have the chance to get to know someone new!

By practicing spontaneity and adding a little spice to your daily life, you may find that you're more relaxed even when things aren't going according to plan. Don't be afraid to take a chance and surprise yourself to see where the day takes you!