Chapter 1: The Calmness Connection

Reflecting on my upbringing, I realized that while I had a joyful childhood, I was prone to quick bursts of anger and frequent tantrums. This reactivity later transformed into a cycle of overthinking and anxiety. It took considerable time for me to recognize the link between my tendency to react swiftly and the subsequent emotional turmoil I experienced.

For many years, I aimed to cultivate a more tranquil life, whenever I remembered to do so. I observed individuals who exuded calmness and delved into philosophies surrounding Zen, spirituality, and Eastern thought. I practiced these teachings in various settings, and over time, I embraced a greater sense of tranquility. This wasn't about adopting a passive demeanor; instead, it was about navigating life with increased ease and inner peace.

Here’s what I discovered from the most composed people I encountered:

1. Daily Movement is Essential

   Engaging in a minimum of 20 minutes of physical activity each day, whether through walking or other forms of exercise, is crucial. Human beings often suffer when they become too sedentary, resembling caged animals in their confinement. This includes the self-imposed stagnation that arises from rarely stepping outside one's comfort zone.

2. Embrace a Slower Pace

   By consciously decelerating our movements and speech, we align ourselves more closely with the present moment. Many agitated individuals operate at a pace that is too rapid, leading to an overwhelming experience of life as it bombards them.

3. Stay Connected to Nature

   Naturalist John Muir once remarked, "I only went out for a walk, and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in." His words highlight the restorative power of nature, reminding us to reconnect with our surroundings. A simple stroll through a forest can help us escape the confines of our minds and reconnect with our bodies.

4. Avoid Taking Things Personally

   Calm individuals tend to maintain a flexible sense of self. Those who are insecure often have a rigid self-image, feeling the need to defend it against perceived threats or criticisms. In contrast, calm individuals view situations objectively and refrain from making them about themselves.

5. Incorporate Practical Spirituality

   Many people associate spirituality with unrealistic ideals and esoteric practices. However, calm individuals recognize the existence of forces beyond the material realm. They understand that when they are at peace, creative insights emerge, guiding them through life's challenges.

6. Align with Personal Needs

   Each person reacts differently to external stimuli, including certain foods. As someone who identifies as a highly sensitive person (HSP), I often feel overwhelmed by excessive stimulation. Through understanding my reactions to caffeine, sugar, and noisy environments, I've learned to adjust my intake based on what enhances my well-being.

7. Foster an Internal Locus of Control

   Those who are calm recognize that their thoughts, rather than external circumstances, are the primary source of stress. By understanding how the mind operates, they gain the freedom to navigate life with ease, realizing they are the creators of their experiences rather than victims of their circumstances.

8. Intentionally Choose Calmness

   Maintaining a calm demeanor isn't always feasible; sometimes, assertiveness is required in unpredictable situations. Nonetheless, calmness is primarily a deliberate choice. Calm individuals continually commit to living peacefully, curating their environments to foster tranquility, and establishing healthy boundaries in their relationships.

The first video titled "8 Little Habits You Don't Know Are Signs Of Anxiety" discusses subtle indicators of anxiety and how they manifest in daily life.

Chapter 2: Transformative Habits for Personal Growth

The second video "8 Small Habits That Will Change Your Life: The Best Expert Advice I'm Using This Year" offers practical advice on how small daily changes can lead to significant improvements in one's life.

I also created a film version of this discussion, which you can view here:

If you aspire to cultivate greater mental strength, I invite you to download my free illustrated booklet, "The 12 Habits of Mentally Strong People," available for a limited time when you subscribe to my Substack newsletter.