Like many people, my relationship with social media is one of love and hate. Love being able to stay connected with friends old and new. Hate the inevitably of comparing yourself to others and feeling like you never quite measure up. “Comparison is the thief of joy.” <<<– How wise you were, Teddy Roosevelt.
I’ve worked to re-frame my social media use as a way to find inspiration – to live a more balanced and thoughtful, healthier, happier life.
I follow Kelly Jensen’s feed on Instagram and have found much inspiration from how she embraces life and guides her family to do the same. I have never met her but if I did I would thank her for introducing me to the concept of a “Live List.” Sort of like a bucket list but with no end date in mind. A celebration of life and the magic in the everyday. A way to live creatively, to support each other, to share time and experiences. Short of making an actual list Justin and I have loosely followed a similar concept with our pups (you can check out our tag #johnsonfamdogventures), but Kelly inspired me to take pen to paper, to brainstorm ideas with Justin, and to write out a list for how we want to live in this season of life.
So we started our Summer Adventure List. Thus far we’ve crossed several things off and whatever is left will get rolled over to future Lists. The best part about a Live List is that there is no pressure if we don’t achieve something. We can always add or remove ideas. We got a bit of a late start on creating our List but there are a few weeks of summer yet. 🙂
So far on our List:
1. Take a ferry ride
2. Visit Vashon Island
3. Take dogs to Edmonds Dog Beach
4. Go camping (& make s’mores) <<< the BEST time ever
5. Find a new trail to take a hike
6. Go to Bellingham
7. Re-finish the rocking chair <<< An old wicker chair I found for free while out on a run. Justin was thrilled! (sarcasm)Â
8. Write Emmanuel a letter <<< the little boy we host through World Vision
9. U-Pick blueberries <<< I’ll be sure to write a post about how we used all 10 pounds of blueberries
Below I’ve provided tips for creating your own family Live List based on Kelly’s tradition.
– Start by sitting down together with treats and snacks for a brainstorming session.
– There are no rules – no idea too big or small. Get creative and be silly. Discuss each idea and reflect on why it might or might not be a good one.
– Create a list that is detailed and make sure you have a little of everything: fun activities, service, creative expression, travel/getaways, etc. While some activities might require planning, try to include things that can be done spur of the moment.
– As you finalize and narrow your list to the very best ideas, each person gets to pick one activity that cannot be vetoed. <<< These usually end up being the most fun!
– Hang your finished list in a visible spot where it will be seen multiple times each day. When you are bored, stressed or needing a lift, go to the list for inspiration and guaranteed fun.
– No need to stress if you don’t get to everything on the list. If you do it all then add some more! There are no time constraints or limitations.
For ideas on what to include on your Live List, see this post here, watch this video, and follow Kelly here (@kellyejensen).
Did you make a summer list? If so, what was on it? I’d love to hear!
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