Tip #17… A Little Really is a Lot

I used to always want to make a big difference, and really do something that made a huge impact. I struggled to find it. My mom would always tell me to do a lot of small things. It took me awhile, but she was so right. Do small things with great love. I love this even more. There are many ways to help others in small ways that make such a big difference every single day. Many people just need someone to smile at them. Some kids just want to be acknowledged and know that you notice what they have done. Pay attention to what other kids are doing, not just your own. It means so much to a kid when another grown up notices what they did. Say hello to the person you pass on the street. Stand for an extra minute and hold the door open for the person behind you, rather than rushing through the door and letting it close behind you. Help the person that has their hands full of kids and might just need a little grace. Get out of your own bubble and notice what is going on around you. Small, kind gestures go a long way. This world has become too busy for me. Slow down just enough to do small, kind things. Why? As I tell my kids…because being nice matters.

small things This applies to our health as well. A little really is a lot with our health and fitness choices too. Every little bit matters. Stop skipping your workout because you do not have an hour to spend at the gym. Go walk, run or squat for 10 minutes if that is all you have today. Yesterday, my son and I did push-ups and planks because that was what we had time for. It is about making it a way of life. Do something active every day, no matter how big or small it is. Park farther away from the store and take the stairs if you can. Take a family bike ride after dinner. Take 5 minutes to stretch before bed if that was all that you had time for today. If we keep waiting for enough time for the perfect workout, you will be waiting for a long time. You do need to make time for longer workouts as well, but do not just skip during your busy seasons of life. Just find time to be active and move every day. This should become a way of life for your kids. Start this habit now. This is a gift you can give to them. Your body and your family will thank you.