“If you can’t get out of it, get into it”
Next time you’re facing dread (work, chores, traffic), repeat this phrase and try to think of one way to make it more fun or whimsical or interesting or at least neutral. Pair with a treat or think about what will be gained from it. Or just give it your all so it’s over sooner. Unknown quote source
Volunteer manual labor to cure general malaise
Hear me out: if your work days are mostly sitting at a computer for long stretches, making decisions, managing things, etc… it feels really good to have someone point to 100 folding chairs and ask you to break them down and carry them to a loading dock. You just do as you’re told and get to be out of your own head and helping a cause (in this case, helping set up a community film festival screening)
Keeping a “glad I said yes” note
Remind yourself of all the times you trusted a stranger, signed up for something weird, or followed a whim that led to something great
NEIGHBORS zine
NEIGHBORS is an NYC-based zine designed to bridge the gap between people living side-by-side and celebrate the unique fabric of our city. Volume 1 features essays, stories, and snippets about neighborly connections from 11 New Yorkers. NEIGHBORS is currently stocked in stores at Thayer in the East Village and Dear Friend Books in Bed-Stuy. View the complete zine online here.
