It's leap day! Here's what to do with your extra time

Awareness

Awareness techniques can transform how we perceive our daily lives. Stacey Vanek Smith shares insights from Jenny, who suggests using both physical and conceptual lenses to notice changes around us. For instance, carrying a magnifying glass to observe nature closely can reveal surprising details, like the unexpected hairiness of plants or the intimidating appearance of insects 1. Jenny also recommends asking oneself, "What is different from yesterday?" to cultivate a sense of presence and awareness.

Making space to engage with your surroundings, just find a little awe in your day can actually stop time, but it can get you pretty close.

--- Stacey Vanek Smith

This approach encourages us to find awe in our surroundings, which can make time feel like it slows down.

   

Weekend Tips

Maximizing weekend fulfillment involves treating weekends like mini-vacations. Stacey Vanek Smith discusses Cassie McGilner Holmes's advice on planning fun activities, such as hiking with friends, to extend the weekend experience 2. Engaging in social connections and active leisure can enhance happiness and make weekends feel longer. Surprisingly, spending time helping others can also alleviate time stress by creating a sense of accomplishment.

When you do spend some time to help someone else, it makes you feel really effective, like you've accomplished a lot.

--- Stacey Vanek Smith

This strategy shifts the perception of time, making it feel more abundant and fulfilling.