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One of the most memorable moments in sports this year was the unwitting publicity that Eagles wide receiver AJ Brown gave to the motivational book "Inner Excellence" when he was caught on camera reading on the sidelines during a playoff game. Well, we're not sure if any NFL players read our posts, but we do think this roundup of opinions is pretty useful, too.

In fact, it's hard to find a person on this planet who wouldn't want to improve their life, at least in some areas of it. Money, health, relationships - we all have our own "growth zones" in these fields, so it's always interesting to learn what decisions other people made that led to a drastic upgrade. So this list of ours today is about exactly that.

More info: Reddit

#1

A person sitting alone at a wooden table in a bright room, illustrating people share things improved life. By learning that anxious thoughts actually don’t need to be explored. I used to ruminate and obsess over my worst anxieties/fears, but all that did was teach my brain that it’s a valid fear by constantly worrying about it. Now when I have an anxious thought, i’m like cool bro, but you’re just a thought and you have no power over me. I’m safe. And then eventually the fear/worry/obsession goes away, because you’re teaching your brain that it’s not really a big deal after all.

edit: i just want to say thank you for the awards!! i didn’t expect my comment to blow up like this, but i’m so happy my words have been able to help so many people :).

Fabulous-Barbie-6153 , Andrew Neel Report

Ms.GB
Community Member
4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah but I'm sure if someone could do that they wouldn't have a problem with anxiety. It used to drive me crazy when people would tell me that anytime you find yourself having a bad thought you just have to think of something positive and don't get me wrong, it can help to a degree but I had clinical depression for years and it wasn't until I found a medical treatment for d**g resistant depression that I went into remission. I had suffered with depression for so long and heard so many ppl tell me things like just think positive etc. that I was actually starting to believe that maybe everyone does feel the way I do and they're just stronger than me....nope. It had been so long that I had forgotten what it was like to feel normal and just get sad. Let me tell you, it's a lot easier to think yourself into a positive mind space when you're sad. My mom just died and I'm not as depressed as I was before if that gives you any idea how powerful clinical depression is...and I was close to my mo

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    #2

    Person showing palm with the word enough written, illustrating people share things that improved life concept. Saying no without over-explaining. Once I stopped feeling guilty for protecting my time and energy, everything got lighter. Wish I’d learned that boundary-setting wasn’t rude way earlier.

    MixFinancial4708 , RDNE Stock project Report

    Tara L.
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yup! Over explaining your "no" just gives them the opportunity to try & find reasons around the "no". No is a complete sentence.

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    #3

    Woman entering a wooden building with natural light, illustrating how people share things that improved life experiences. Walking away from my toxic family.

    jdlech Report

    A few days ago, a thread appeared on the AskReddit community, the author of which, the user u/Yolas_1, asked readers: "What improved your quality of life so much, you wish you did it sooner?" The result was over 5.3K upvotes and 2K various comments with advice literally about everything in this world, often just the opposite ones.

    Some people claim that marriage radically changed their lives for the better, while others believe that a timely divorce did the same for them. For some, money is what makes a person happy, while others strongly believe that happiness is not in money at all. And you know what's the best thing? They are all absolutely right.

    #4

    Smiling woman holding large flowers, illustrating people share things that improved life with positivity and nature. Getting good with being single.

    It's a powerful position to be in. Now the only people in my life are the ones I want in my life; not people I'm settling for our of fear of being alone.

    GreenEyedHawk , Dziana Hasanbekava Report

    Black Cat
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Personally I love being single. I also love the peace and quiet of solitude. It's lovely being able to pick and choose who to let into your life and not having to deal with anyone's disrespect. Not needing people does wonders for your self esteem.

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    #5

    Two happy golden retriever puppies sitting on grass with orange flowers, symbolizing people share things that improved life. Getting a dog.

    Clay_Moore_ , Chevanon Photography Report

    Der Kommissar
    Community Member
    4 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Undoubtedly. Having a dog requires a lot of work, attention, patience, dedication and money. Still, worth it.

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    #6

    Person sitting in a vintage room sharing things that improved life while using a smartphone near a table lamp and drink. Quitting smoking. I smoked for 46 years and quit 13 years ago. Too many negatives to list and too many positives to list.

    No_Vast2882 , Ron Lach Report

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I quit 44 years ago when I turned thirty on the theory that life wouldn't be that fun after thirty. Oddly prescient.

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    "In fact, there is no universal recipe for happiness or simply turning one's life to the better," says Irina Matveeva, a psychologist and certified NLP specialist, with whom Bored Panda got in touch for a comment here. "Moreover, some advice that is more or less suitable for many people can lead some of us to exactly the opposite consequences."

    "No, of course, there are certain basic recommendations for upgrading your life, which concern financial well-being, health, physical and mental, and also safety. However, everything that goes beyond these limits is already, by and large, in our heads. In how we perceive these tips, and our life in general."

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    #7

    Person reading a book with sunlight and shadows, illustrating people share things that improved life moments. Reading.

    tdmopar67 , Blaz Photo Report

    Der Kommissar
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    The easiest, fastest way to gain knowledge. I tell my kids that reading is its own reward.

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    #8

    Calculator, blank notepad, pen, and cash spread on a white surface as people share things that improved life. Make a budget. Not a spreadsheet that you look at sometimes. A real, check at least once per day, budget.

    0ogl3 , Kaboompics.com Report

    Robert Beveridge
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I have a dry erase board above my desk with the bills on it. Immensely helpful.

    #9

    Person lying on floor surrounded by boxes, reflecting on things people share that improved life moments. Moving abroad

    I used to be such a bitter a*****e, but since I've moved, I've calmed down. I have money, good relationship with coworkers ava just overall I feel more optimistic.

    Jncocontrol , cottonbro studio Report

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Sometimes you leave your country. Sometimes your country leaves you.

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    "For example, for someone, moving to another country in search of a better life will be a completely reasonable act, but someone, even having moved and received everything they want, will begin to yearn for their homeland, for everything that they left behind. With this, in fact, little can be done from a logical point of view. This is often our subconscious, and only qualified therapy can help here," Irina concludes.

    The same applies, for example, to marrying into money for some people. No, there are many people in the world who are ready not only to sacrifice their feelings for the sake of financial stability and well-being, but also to try to love a financially secure partner. But to what extent can this be called happiness? After all, no one can guarantee you that the story of Anna Nicole Smith will not repeat itself...

    #10

    Person holding smartphone showing Instagram login screen, representing people share things that improved life online. Deleting instagram. Its not real.

    PT2B , Tofros.com Report

    Robert Beveridge
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Meta in general is horrifying. The algorithms they use are infuriating when they're not incompetent.

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    #11

    Young woman in a red scarf sitting in a field, reflecting peacefully as people share things that improved life. Going for a walk in nature every morning.

    ToffeeHop , Pixabay Report

    veirdbuttrue
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Unfortunately there is this thing called work.......

    And yet, if you look at the list of confessions from a variety of people, you can conclude that the most important thing here is to take care of your health. Well, the sooner, the better.

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    Start going to the gym, riding a bike, changing your diet to a healthier one, quitting smoking and giving up alcohol - in fact, this is not so difficult. So you can evaluate the impact on the quality of life of literally each of these tips in just a couple of months.

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    Oh, and, of course, getting a pet, a dog or a cat. In fact, no matter how much trouble our animals bring us at home, nothing actually compares to those minutes when we play with them, walk with them, or just scratch their warm tummy. Take it from a man who lost his beloved pug a couple of days ago...

    #13

    Person reviewing documents with calculator on laptop, illustrating people share things that improved life concepts. Eliminated my debts.

    My disposable income jumped dramatically, though it took years of hard work.

    I will never ever do that again.

    MailFar6917 , Mikhail Nilov Report

    Kevin Warren
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Everything is paid off…took living below/within our means but now we can move toward retirement debt free. I know everyone does not have this opportunity. I grew up poor and I am thankful every day for what I have.

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    #14

    Person standing on a cliff overlooking a lake with arms outstretched, reflecting on things that improved life. Leaving a dismissive avoidant partner and working on my own attachment issues. Our best investment is in us. Don't abandon yourself.

    marushia-on-reddit , Kyle Loftus Report

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    #15

    Person pouring a red drink into a small glass as people share things that improved life in a social setting Cutting alcohol out of my life completely.

    air621 , Midhun Harikumar Report

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    In any case, we sincerely believe that this list, thoroughly made for you by Bored Panda, will help you, if not instantly change your life for the better, then at least think - why not start doing it today? Okay, let it be tomorrow - today you can read this list to the very end and, if you have a similar experience too, share it in the comments below as well.

    #16

    Person measuring waist with tape in kitchen with vegetables, illustrating people share things that improved life. This is always controversial, but starting Mounjaro to help with weight loss.

    For years I tried healthy eating and exercise. I tried calorie counting and even tried a couple of fad diets. I went to dietitians and saw personal trainers. I did everything the doctors recommended. In the end, if I ate more than 800 calories, the weight just packed back on. If I ate less and didn't work out, I sustained. If I worked out, I lost weight.

    I went for a prolonged period of 800 calories and working out (2 years) and lost heaps of weight but I lost hair and it caused other issues to the point where my doc recommended I eat at least 1200 calories a day. Within a year, I had gained all the weight back and packed more on.

    I tried to go about things the "right" way according to most medical professionals and not rely on a "magical" fix.

    Then I saw a doctor that specialised in female medicine and a hormone specialist. Testing was done. Turns out I had a severe hormonal imbalance and metabolic issues. I will likely be on this medication (at least on a low dose) for the rest of my life.

    How did it change my life? I eat between 1200-1400 calories a day and work out as I was before and I'm down 38 kilograms (and still going). Everything is just...easier. Since losing the weight, my hormonal imbalance has resolved and my autoimmune issues have been in remission for over a year. My self confidence and ideas surrounding self efficacy have soared - especially since I now know that I wasn't "failing" and that there was a reason my "best" wasn't good enough.

    Don't let anyone tell you that you're "cheating" if you get help losing weight. You're still addressing a health issue that is likely having a carry on effect and causing other issues. If you're not already eating and working out, you're still putting in the hard yards and learning or building new habits.

    LaoghaireElgin , senivpetro Report

    Giraffe Sitter
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I’m so happy that this person found a medical solution. Many people suffer unnecessarily because of issues that aren’t easily identified.

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    #17

    Person showing improved life by holding loose jeans waistband to highlight weight loss or lifestyle change. Finally losing weight.

    Confident_Gur_7818 , rawpixel.com Report

    Tara L.
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes! Being obese destroys your health.

    #18

    Smiling woman sitting on a white couch, representing people sharing things that improved life in a relaxed setting. Stopped acting like a door 🚪 mat..that everybody could wipe their feet on. 👵.

    Both-Friend-4202 , Adam Winger Report

    veirdbuttrue
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes, there comes a time when you realise it's ok and actually necessary to put yourself first.

    #19

    Person in green sweater making an X with arms against a concrete wall, showing people share things that improved life. Setting boundaries and no longer being a people pleaser!

    JediMindTricks1979 , kues1 Report

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    #20

    Person relaxing at home in cozy socks, holding a warm cup enjoying simple things that improve life comfort and happiness. Stop working more than 40 hours a week.

    PlayfulWitchx , cookie_studio Report

    Robert Beveridge
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    ESPECIALLY if you're only getting paid for 40.

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    #21

    A smiling woman wearing a sleep mask lying on a bed, illustrating people share things that improved life. Buying an eye mask for sleeping.

    Lower_Travel_7843 , Anna Nekrashevich Report

    Manos
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Much easier than blackout curtains.

    #22

    Stopped trying to please people.

    StellarPotato420 Report

    #23

    Person forming a heart with hands at sunset, symbolizing people sharing things that improved life moments. Healing my childhood trauma 💚.

    mossxsanctuary , Chang Duong Report

    Bored Birgit
    Community Member
    4 months ago (edited) Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    How do you do that? OP said: "you face the truth, cry for every time you couldn't cry, learn healthier ways to express your anger, scream and talk things out in the car, whatever it takes to get that old energy out. breathing exercises and somatic exercises help too."

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    #24

    Therapy and medication.

    mijolnirmkiv Report

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    #25

    A person's hand gently pressing on a soft white surface, illustrating people share things improved life comfort. A good Mattress topper .

    Newbie10011001 , rawpixel.com Report

    Colleen Glim
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    A good mattress is a game changer. You spend a third of your life sleeping. Make sure it’s decent sleep

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    #26

    Digital clocks displaying time in a dark room with people share things improved life mood lighting and music details. Going to bed on time.

    MysticMeadowex , Yasin Hasan Report

    Ace
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I always go to bed on time. Every night when i get into bed i look at my watch and it shows me what time I'm on.

    #27

    Two men with foreheads touching and smiling, sharing moments of connection that improved life together. Coming out.

    PlaneEmbarrassed7677 , freepik Report

    Mike F
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You gotta do you or it will eat you up.

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    #28

    Listening to White noises

    It ain't talked about often but listening to white noises helps you sleep better, helps with anxieties, helps you focuses more it's just cheat code for your brain.

    Objective-Advisor789 Report

    Giraffe Sitter
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I always sleep with a table fan on even if I don’t need it for cooling.

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    #29

    Person pushing a shopping cart filled with groceries outside a store, illustrating people share things improved life concept. Spending my money on me instead of trying to maximize investments. I'm glad I used to do that, but that phase of my life is done.

    Anonymous_Coder_1234 , Stephen Han Report

    Colleen Glim
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    There are more important things in life than money. In today’s capitalistic society, we tend to forget that. As long as you have a roof over your head, food in your belly, clothes on your back, and a bit put away for emergencies, you really don’t need much else

    #30

    Torn paper heart hanging on a string against a dark background, symbolizing people share things that improved life. Divorce.

    alanbastard , Kelly Sikkema Report

    Michael Largey
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    A divorce is not the end of a marriage. It is an acknowledgement that the marriage has already ended.

    #31

    Close-up of a modern white bidet toilet seat showing controls, highlighting people share things improved life comfort. Adding a bidet toilet seat to our toilet.

    ricgreen1 , anon Report

    Tara L.
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Yes! Total game changer, I don't spend nearly as much on toilet paper that I used to.

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    #32

    Hate to admit it but running before work.

    Not giving a f**k is a very close second.

    howveryoddish Report

    Tara L.
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not giving a fk what other people think about you is awesome, very freeing.

    #33

    A young woman with eyes closed enjoying sunlight outdoors, representing people share things improved life and positivity. Remembering who you are, what you like and what you want out of life and not compromising yourself for the sake of others.

    If relationships are two individual rocks that continuously press against each other and crack each other soon enough you won't remember the core of yourself. Slowly you chip away at yourself to fit into someone else's life or try to fit their image of you until you don't recognize yourself or you are a shell of what you once was. That strong individual rock is just a shell or a pebble of you.

    So, life isn't worth going through such experiences , there are other rocks out there that will fit right into and next to your rock without those hardships.

    Remember your core and stay true to yourself.

    spacecuddles , Catherine Campbell Report

    Colleen Glim
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This is a bit naive. Relationships, especially long term ones, take work and compromise on both sides. There will be times when you don’t like your spouse very much, for all that you still love them. Trust me when I tell you those are two different emotions

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    #34

    A well-dressed couple sharing moments on a couch, illustrating people share things improved life feelings and connections. Marrying into money.

    GuybrushFunkwood , Narmin Aslan Report

    michael reid
    Community Member
    4 months ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not sure this is in the spirit of this list...

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