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5 Simple Changes That Will Create Impact and Radically Improve Your Life Today

Pick one, start now, and watch the momentum build. 

EXPERT OPINION BY PETER ECONOMY, THE LEADERSHIP GUY @BIZZWRITER

Photo: Getty Images

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I’m sure you’ve been there—it’s the middle of the night, your mind is racing, and you’re wondering how you got so far off track. Face it, doom scrolling through Instagram or TikTok all night is going to do little more than leave you empty or filled with the inescapable feeling that everyone else’s life is awesome and yours just isn’t. 

One thing is for sure, it’s not getting you any closer to your goals. The good news is that all it takes to turn your life around is implementing a handful of tiny tweaks that will create a big impact. The best news is you can start right now. 

1. Get your thoughts out of your head. 

I personally have a hard time keeping the thoughts in my head from endlessly spinning around. “Do this, don’t forget to do that—oh wait, I’ve got a meeting in five minutes.” Make it a habit to write things down. Don’t just make lists. Instead, jot down your worries, brilliant ideas, and all the other stuff that comes at you at inopportune moments. Your brain will appreciate it when you put all those things on paper. 

2. Show up as your best self. 

How you present yourself to the world directly affects how you feel on the inside. I’m not talking about becoming a fashionista or blow drying your hair. It’s more about being intentional. Taking those extra five minutes to pick an outfit you feel good in and put together really changes your walk—and your attitude. You sit up straighter and you’re more likely to speak up in that meeting with your boss. A little effort equals a massive return. 

3. Become ridiculously grateful. 

It might seem a bit out of your lane to say to someone, “Hey, I really appreciate you,” but I strongly suggest you give it a try. The barista who knows your order, the colleague who never leaves you hanging on email, and the neighbor who gives your dog a friendly pet. Give them all a nod, a smile, and a sincere thank you. 

There’s an added benefit for you: Gratitude rewires your brain to recognize the good things instead of instantly tuning into your inner complainer. Not only that, but people remember how you make them feel, so make them feel good. 

4. Stop playing the comparison game. 

Social media makes everyone feel like they’re part of some highlight reel game where you never win. The thing is, we’re all running our own race. Comparison is just an illusion and a complete waste of your time. The only person who you should be outperforming? Last week’s version of you. Comparison is a competition where everyone loses. 

5. Treat your body like it matters. 

Your body is the place you live in for a lifetime, so it just doesn’t pay to treat it poorly. You don’t need to overhaul your diet and fitness regime right now. Simply drink more water, aim for at least seven hours of sleep, and take a 10-minute walk every day. Your future self will thank you when you’re not dragging by 3 p.m. and you’re not drinking that third coffee at noon. 

The great thing about these shifts is how simple they are. There’s no need to remake your entire life or wait until Monday to start again. Pick one, start now, and feel the momentum build. 

The opinions expressed here by Inc.com columnists are their own, not those of Inc.com.

The extended deadline for the 2025 Inc. Best in Business Awards is this Friday, September 19, at 11:59 p.m. PT. Apply now.

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