3 Keys to Planning a Meaningful Day
Today, I want to teach you my recipe for planning a meaningful day.
Why?
Many of my friends and clients feel stuck.
They don't like their jobs.
They spend more time online than they want.
They rarely create time to do things they enjoy.
Last weekend, a friend said, “I feel like I haven’t done anything this year. Like, what did I even do this summer? It sucks to think about.”
A look of defeat washed across her face. In June, her summer hopes were high:
Beach days.
Travel plans.
Daily workouts.
But when September hit, her summer lacked meaning.
Can you relate?
Here’s the thing–creating a meaningful day isn’t complex, but it requires planning.
Ready to turn tomorrow into a day with meaning? Let’s dive in.
How Do I Create a Meaningful Day?
Imagine a version of yourself filled with a sense of purpose. How does that person spend their time?
In the summer of 2020, I asked myself this question. While backpacking the John Muir Trail, I created a recipe for a meaningful day. Writing it down, I told myself I would try it once.
I haven’t looked back since.
Now, I am more aware of opportunities to help others and myself, no matter how small.
The results are priceless:
Feeling proud of taking small steps that care for my future self.
Finding purpose in doing something that makes a difference in other’s lives.
Experiencing joy as I take time each day for one thing that truly makes me happy.
3 Keys to Planning a Meaningful Day
The recipe is simple:
Do something for someone else
Do something for your future self
Do something that brings you joy
These 3 keys to planning a meaningful day don't require grand gestures.
Smiling to a stranger is doing something for someone else.
Reading for 5 minutes is doing something for your future self.
Doing something you enjoy isn’t selfish. It’s necessary.
I’ve learned to accept these small ingredients as meaningful. Now, I plan time for each one.
How would your life change if you created time for each step in the recipe?
If you’re unsure how to check all three boxes, I have some ideas for you…
1. Do something for someone else
Living in service to others is fulfilling, even in the simplest ways. For example:
Parents, leave a note in your child’s lunchbox
During your morning commute, let someone merge ahead of you.
Send a quick message to a friend, family member, or colleague. It could be as simple as, “Just wanted to say hi!”
2. Do something for your future self
There are no rules here. Anything your future self will thank you for counts:
Get moving–walk, run, gym, stretch
Journal your thoughts or set aside time for meditation
Make a financial decision that aligns with your long-term goals
3. Do something you enjoy
Finally, carve out time for what brings you joy:
Movies
Reading
Board games
Literally, anything!
A Challenge For You
With a few small, intentional actions, you can create a meaningful day. Why not try the recipe this week?
This requires a few executive function skills. Here are three tips to get started:
Each day, search for opportunities to serve someone else (cognitive flexibility)
At night, decide how and when you will serve your future self the next day (planning)
On your calendar, timebox for one thing that brings you joy (time management)
Remember, it’s not about overhauling your entire life. It’s about planning small, meaningful changes that add up over time.
I hope this recipe brings more intentionality, joy, and meaning to your life.
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Other Resources
About the Author
Eric Kaufmann, M.Ed is a Professional Educational Therapist and Certified Executive Function Coach. He is the Co-founder of UpSkill Specialists, an online adult executive function coaching company designed to guide adults in overcoming disorganization, procrastination, and productivity roadblocks so they can unlock their potential. Eric is also the founder of Elevate Learning Solutions, an Educational Therapy practice located in San Clemente, CA, that guides students with neurological differences toward becoming independent and confident students and self-leaders.