LIFEHACKS

144 More or Less Obvious Things That Will Make Your Life Easier

Lifehacks – Copyright © 2014 Matt Harris

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing from the author. Reviewers may quote brief passages in reviews.

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CONTENTS

# So What Exactly is a Lifehack?

# Part 01: Lifehacks to Increase Your Productivity

# Part 02: Lifehacks to Improve Your Personal Life

# Part 03: Lifehacks to Boost Your Social Skills

# Part 04: Lifehacks to Enhance Your Health and Fitness

# Part 05: Lifehacks for a Healthier Bank Account

# Part 06: And Even More Lifehacks… Just For Fun!

# Did You Like This Book?

So What Exactly is a Lifehack?

The term “hack” basically means any sort of shortcut, trick or technique that gives you the results you want in a non-elegant but effective manner. It was originally used for computer programs where you “hack” into a game and bypass all the nasty minions and defeat the main boss quickly and efficiently. The word “life” has been added in, making the term “lifehack” a crude but effective way of making daily tasks easier.

In this book you’ll find more than hundred possible lifehacks to implement in your life. Some of them you may already know, some of them are maybe completely new to you. All in all, however, there is a good chance you’ll discover something new and interesting in the following chapters.

So what are you waiting for? Ready to make your life easier one hack at a time?

Part 01: Lifehacks to Increase Your Productivity

Ever wake up thinking today will be the day you’d get a lot of work done, and then at the end of the day you realize you’ve “successfully” watched through all first 3 seasons of House of Cards? If your productivity level only extends to making coffee in the morning, then it’s time to kick it up a notch! Following are some lifehacks that can make you do more and end the day with a smug “I’m the man” look on your face…

(1) 2 Minutes

The two minute rule simply states that if you are confronted with a task that takes only two minutes to finish, then do it right now and get it over with! Don’t leave it hanging because pretty soon, you’ll have a collection of 2-minute tasks that would take an hour to complete. Just finished your mug of coffee? Wash it immediately within 1 minute and you’ll never have to face a dirty sink again.

(2) Seinfeld Calls It!

Jerry Seinfeld is magic when it comes to stand up! But how exactly did he achieve such a high level of expertise? Practice, of course! He made sure that a few hours each day is dedicated to stand up practices. To boost his motivation, Seinfeld started putting an X mark on the calendar for every day he practiced. The satisfaction of seeing an unbroken line of X’s motivated him into NOT breaking the chain. Try it!

(3) Procrastinate Productively

Now this sound like an oxymoron, but it actually makes sense. Notice how you try to distract yourself with practically anything just to avoid doing work that you hate? Instead of walking around burning precious time, you can try doing something else that you don’t “hate” as much. For example, procrastinate while cleaning up your inbox or perhaps start straightening out your desk to make it more work friendly. There are lots of productive procrastination steps that you can do, and each one would help you shift your focus from the task you don’t want to do to the task you can tolerate to do until you’re ready for the real thing.

(4) Make a Playlist

Have you seen Inception where Leonardo DiCaprio uses a song to time his way into a dream? When it reaches the chorus, he knows it’s almost time to wake up from the dream. You can do this too (while awake, of course) by creating a playlist that tells you whether you’re on time or not. Try putting together a 30-minute playlist and start playing it the minute you wake up. The goal is to make sure that before the last song in the playlist ends, you’re already in your car and driving to work. You can also link the songs to the activity you’re supposed to be doing (breakfast while listening to Neil Young, The Black Keys while taking a bath, etc.), allowing you to easily judge whether you’re slacking or not.

(5) Know your Optimum Productivity Hour

Every person has that time of the day where they’re positively brimming with energy. For most, it’s in the morning right after a dose of coffee while others are at their best after-lunch. No matter what your optimum time happens to be, identify it and make the most of it during your working hours.

(6) Get the Temperature Right

Studies reveal that the right temperature can actually increase or decrease your productivity. According to Cornell research, the magic number is 77 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing you to be perfectly comfortable and focused on the job. You might want to let your boss know about this number and if the office isn’t just willing to pay the bill, you can also try affecting the temperature yourself. Bring a portable fan or layer your clothing, depending on the circumstances.

(7) Make Your Breakfast Exciting

What can motivate you to wake up early? Excellent breakfast, of course! Just the thought of freshly made coffee can get you up and about within minutes. To make this happen, try getting a coffee maker with a timer, ensuring that you’ll wake up to the smell of freshly made coffee. Preparing breakfast food and ingredients at night would also make it easier for you to start cooking a healthy and delicious meal in the morning.

(8) Cheese Works

This is a fun thing to try! So let’s say the room is too cold and your cheapskate boss won’t let you touch the thermostat. Try putting a block of cheese on top of the device and it will be fooled into thinking that the room is actually colder than it actually is. Hence, the temperature is automatically adjusted, giving you a warmer and more comfortable atmosphere.

(9) Surround Yourself with Yellow

Ever wondered why Facebook is colored blue? Studies suggest that this color is the most relaxing for people so when using Facebook, you tend to relax and spend lots of time on the website. On the other side of the spectrum, there’s the color yellow that can help increase your productivity. The color closely resembles the brightness of the sun, which fools the body into producing melatonin. This basically stops you from being sleepy in the middle of the afternoon, allowing you to focus more on the job and less on the bed.

(10) Baby Animals are the Answer

Now we know why the internet is littered with images of cute baby animals. It actually produces productivity – according to a study done by the Hiroshima University. Apparently, cute baby animals can give you a buzz that restores your energy and relaxes the mind, making you ready for work. With just one minute of scrolling through pictures of cats sitting in bowls, you’d be able to increase productivity by up to 44 percent…

(11) Commute

Taking your car might be more convenient, but commuting to work actually makes it easier for you to face the day. Instead of driving, you can rearrange your schedule for the next 8 hours, making sure that all your papers are in order and answering emails through your phone. Simply put, commuting lets you focus on those “little things” that make you ready for the “big things” in the office.

(12) Get to Work Early

Getting to work early won’t just impress the boss; it would also make your whole day more productive. First off, being early means you’ll miss the morning rush hour which can be—let’s face it—very annoying. Upon reaching the office, there would be zero colleagues around, letting you avoid the typical small talk in the morning. With zero stress and distractions, you’d be in a prime mindset to do whatever needs done and get the job finished ahead of schedule. Even better, that means you’d be finished earlier so you can get out of the office quickly and avoid the usual 5:30 PM rush.

(13) Change Your Surroundings

Is it possible to bring your work somewhere else? Like the best coffee shop near you? Believe it or not, some people actually get a boost in productivity when around other people. The buzz of the noise and activity provides them with a burst of energy that you just can’t find in the stale surroundings of the office. Of course, this might not work for everyone so try experimenting on your surroundings to find out which setting gives you the most buzz.

(14) Bribe Yourself

Do you need to finish reading a long and boring report? Put a (healthy) snack at the end of each page and eat it when you’re done reading that specific page. You’ll find yourself becoming more enthusiastic with the reading process.

(15) Keep Plants Nearby

Even if it’s just a small pot of green, plants can actually work wonders for your concentration. This has been proven after two studies performed in 2011 and 2013. According to psychologists from the University of Michigan, plants are part of the “attention restoration theory” which basically means it restores your focus on the work with just one quick glimpse. Don’t forget that the green color of plants is also excellent for the eyes so you’re basically “refreshing” your mind and vision through a simple plant. With you practically rejuvenated, your work productivity should increase.

(16) Nap a Little

Google’s main office actually has a nap room where employees can take a well-deserved snooze. Some might think this defeats productivity but studies reveal that a nap – when done at the right time – actually revitalizes your physical and mental energy bar. Ever taken a nap in the afternoon and woke up feeling like you can take over the world? That’s it! Of course, optimum napping time is different for everyone, although studies show that generally, it’s somewhere within the vicinity of 2PM. You’ll find that someone ingeniously crafted a nap wheel for this, letting you calculate your optimum napping time, depending on what time you sleep and what time you wake up. Of course, you can always follow what your body dictates and nap when you’re feeling drowsy.

(17) Big Tasks in the Morning

Studies reveal that the morning is your most productive time yet. Maybe it has something to do with waking up from a long and satisfying rest. No matter the reason, try scheduling your biggest, worst and usually most important tasks in the morning. You’ll find that not only do you have more energy during the early hours, but your mind is also sharper and more creative. We’re not just talking about eight, nine, or ten in the morning, however. If you wake up around 6AM, you’ll notice that you’re practically bursting with energy around 6:30AM. Of course, this might not be true for everyone – but it’s certainly worth a try!

(18) Binaural Beats

Ever heard of binaural beats? They’ve been proven to help with concentration, creating a more productive work place for you. Try downloading one online and see if it works for you.

(19) Any Music Works

Binaural beats are great – but the truth is that every type of music works in boosting your productivity. According to studies, listening to music you like actually helps you finish tasks faster. This is especially true if you’re not particularly fond of the job you’re doing. Music essentially helps “entertain” you while performing laborious or boring tasks, making the whole job seem easier.

(20) Make a To-Do List (seriously)

Now, this one is up for debate so you might want to test each method out before making a decision. First off, create a to-do list for the day, scheduling the worst tasks in the morning when your energy is at its highest. Stick to this to-do list and apply the Seinfeld approach by putting a big fat red check beside every task you finish. Period.

(21) Take a Computer Break

The problem with computers is that even though they increase productivity, they also decrease it. How many times have you browsed through your Facebook or Twitter account when you’re supposed to be doing work? With “fun” websites so easily accessible, it’s very common to have multiple tabs open in your window. Hence, if you’ve decided you need a “break” from work, try standing up from the desk and stretching your legs. This would help clear your head, give you the break you want, and even burn some calories along the way!

(22) Anti Distraction Software

Get some help from programs available for free. A good example is JDarkRoom, which basically obliterates all possible distractions from your monitor. Instead, the screen is filled by a completely white page where you can write your report. The taskbar, start icon and others are papered over by the document, allowing you to completely focus on what’s important.

(23) Download Evernote

Evernote is an application that helps you stay organized. Most people only use it to take notes, but there’s actually so much more that can be done with this program. You can try creating lots of notebooks and notes, linking them together and creating a whole system of pages that help you keep track of information you need. Perhaps one of the best features of the program is the Web Clipper which lets you save articles from the internet, add them to existing notes and even make notes of them so that you don’t forget anything! Have fun and explore with this program.

(24) Meal Planning

Indecisiveness is one of the most common reasons for procrastination – so why not remove the option when you can? Plan your meals ahead of schedule so that you know exactly what you’re eating for the day. If you love to cook, this means having all the important ingredients in the pantry, removing the need for a time-wasting shopping expedition.

(25) Carry a Notebook and Pen Around (All. The. Time.)

Do you get ideas in your head that constantly nag and distract you throughout the day? Ideas like these might be excellent, but they can push you to procrastinate, bumping out all the concentration you have for the job. Get rid of all these naggings by writing all those thoughts and “light bulbs” in a notebook you always keep handy. After writing them down, your subconscious should feel content so that you can focus on the work again. At the end of the day, you can visit the notebook again and get to work on your bright ideas!

(26) Break the TV Habit

According to studies, the typical American spends around 9 years out of a 65-year life span watching television. Those basically boil down to 4 hours each day – but imagine how long it really is when you look at the big picture. Turn off the TV now and start doing something else. Read a good book, for example. Not only will you become more productive, you’d also find yourself saving on electricity!

(27) Blog It

Blog what you do, your goals, what you’ve been doing to achieve them, and how you’re faring so far. The incentive of being able to chronicle your “adventures” should be able to push you towards productivity. For some people, knowing that others are reading their work is an excellent inducer. Of course, this might not work for everyone and in some cases, you might consider it additional work rather than fun.

(28) Sleep Well

Well, duh. Sleep has long been strongly advised to increase productivity and improve overall health. Unfortunately, a lot of people are still ignoring this fact, so please—try to get a good eight hours of sleep every night.

(29) Clean Up!

OK, so opinions for this one are also divided. Basically, the idea is to get rid of any clutter on your desk before starting work. With a clean and orderly desk, there’s really nothing else for you to do but focus on the work. Of course, don’t forget the Einstein quote: 'If a cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind, of what, then, is an empty desk a sign?' So basically, what you can do is clean your desk but don’t leave it completely devoid of anything. For some people, a stack of paperwork on their desk helps to constantly remind them that there’s still work to be done. Hence, this is really a judgment call on your part. My advice – remove the clutter and see what happens.

(30) The Email Reverse Psychology

Ever want someone to read your email immediately? Use the reverse psychology trick! After sending them the mail, follow it up with another mail bearing the subject: PLS DON’T READ PREVIOUS EMAIL. IT WAS SENT IN ERROR. Yup, do it in all caps to really get the reader’s attention. You’ll find that this would make them very curious about the email’s content.

(31) Work in Sprints

Work shouldn’t be a marathon that keeps you sitting on your chair for six long hours at a time. Instead, you should approach it in sprints, perhaps spending two hours at a time and then taking a quick break to refresh yourself. Note, though, that your “refreshment” of choice should not be done by clicking through your social media account. Instead, stand up, walk around, stretch a little or even grab a cup of water. A few minutes away from the computer would give you that necessary recharge to keep on working.

(32) Move Around and Workout

Studies reveal that exercise can help increase your productivity, increase concentration, and improve your energy. It probably has something to do with exercise improving blood flow and oxygen in the body. We’re not just talking about morning exercises though, although that’s definitely a good thing. Instead, try to insert some workouts during your lunch hour or even the 15-minute break. Even just walking in place or light stretching can turn you into a whole new person.

(33) Turn your Phone Off

OK, so maybe turning your phone off all the way is not necessary. However, you can try locking it up in the drawer (or just putting it into flight mode) to prevent yourself from checking it every few minutes.

(34) Second Monitor

Now this might seem irrational, but a second monitor can actually make it easier for you to work. Employees notice that switching from one window to another actually makes it harder for them to concentrate on what they’re doing. With a second monitor, however, it seems as though the whole process has just become way easier, not to mention easier on the eyes. Also, monitors today have become cheaper so this shouldn’t dent your bank account too much.

(35) Donuts Fix Everything

Running late and you just know everyone is going to welcome you with bad looks in the office? You can’t really blame them, especially since they’ve been ahead of you. You know what you can do, though? Donuts! A box of donuts may not completely wipe off the frown on their faces, but they shouldn’t give you a hard time with your lateness. After all, a happy office is a productive office. Don’t do it again, though – buying 54 donuts every day can be quite expensive.

(36) Herbs are the Answer

Aside from sounds and visual elements, another factor that deeply affects work productivity is the smell. If you’re in an environment where the smell is far from pleasant, chances are you wouldn’t be in your full capacity when working. Don’t grab the air freshener, though. This will only make things worse because the slight chemical smell is an even bigger distraction. Instead, go to the local greenhouse and purchase an herb plant – preferably one with a strong smell. Put it beside the office desk and you should get that clean, fresh smell of the outdoors all day long. Some of the best plants for this job are mint, basil, rosemary and lavender.

(37) Pomodoro Method

The Pomodoro technique is very simple to do and can increase your focus and productivity significantly during the day. Basically, just set a timer for 25 minutes and commit yourself to working during that time. You don’t have to finish the task within those 25 minutes; you just have to make sure that all those minutes are used productively. When you’re done, take a 5-minute break; you’ve earned it! Repeat the process over and over again until the day is done. You can also try giving yourself a longer 15-minute break after four or five 25-minute cycles.

(38) Batch ‘Em Up

Try to batch up your tasks or work in chunks for the small jobs that necessitate a few minutes of your time. For example, schedule your email checks, messenger checks and updates together, allowing you to get those things out of the way immediately. With that gone, you can now focus on the big and most important tasks of the day.

(39) Just Work Wednesdays

Some companies also call them “No Meeting Tuesdays” which basically means that there is zero chance of a meeting being called for in the company boardroom. This simple policy lets everyone know that the day is purely dedicated to work which means that they don’t have to worry about any distractions. Why Wednesday? Any day could work, but Wednesday is the optimum day because it is smack in the middle of the week when the employees are best primed for work.

(40) Block Websites

So let’s say you just can’t help yourself from constantly checking your Facebook and Twitter account. There are ways to temporarily block these websites and stop you from procrastinating your day away. Some programs that can help include LeechBlock, Focus Booster, Self Control, Nanny for Google Chrome, Keep Me Out, and StayFocused.

(41) Pareto’s Law

Pareto’s Law states that 20% of your inputs leads to 80% of the outputs. That means that for every 10 things that you do, even just doing 2 of those would give more than half of the results you want. Sound confusing? Alright, let’s keep it simple. Before the day starts, think about the top three things you need to do in order to reach your goals for the day. By staying focused on those three things, you’d find yourself reaching 100% productivity!

(42) Walking Meetings

Have walking meetings! It not only saves time but the walk actually helps stimulate the mind, allowing you to come up with better ideas.

Part 02: Lifehacks to Improve Your Personal Life

(43) Know your Sleep Cycle

Understand sleep cycles and how important they are to your life. Sleep cycles are basically your optimum sleeping time so that you can be at your best for work. Adults need at least 8 hours of sleep every night so—guess what—you should be ready for bed eight hours before your scheduled wake up time. It’s not exactly rocket science, but a lot of people seem to have problems when it comes to sleep.

(44) Television Closet

Make the closet your television’s permanent home. With less time spent in front of the idiot box, you’d be able to enjoy yourself outdoors, meet up with friends, and engage in physical activities. Try it for a month and see.

(45) Sit Beside your Enemy

If you’ve got a large target sign posted on your back in the office, chances are someone would dearly love to castigate you during meetings. If you feel like this is the case, prevent this from happening by simply sitting next to the person who wants you for breakfast. This would make the attack seem more “personal”, therefore making your enemy think twice about whatever s/he wants to say.

(46) Volunteer for a Cause

Some volunteer work doesn’t require you to spend money, but it does ask you to donate some time for a good cause. Some of these organizations will have you painting homes, cleaning yards, preparing food, and basically just lending a hand for simple tasks. You’ll be amazed at how much work needs to be done – and how much you can actually help with just your time and effort. Definitely an excellent way to boost your personal perception.

(47) No More Cable

If you find that you can’t abandon the TV inside the cold and drab closet, why not just have your cable subscription cut off? With nothing to watch, there’s really no need to switch on the television.

(48) More Music

Listen to more music – it’s actually more stimulating for the brain, much more so than watching television.

(49) Information Diet

News can be very depressing which is why sometimes it’s better to get a complete break from it. Instead of reading the news, pick up a book you always wanted to read to feed your brain. Note, though, that the information should be something you actually care about. Loading yourself up with data that you don’t really give a hoot about only complicates your life.

(50) Improve Your Memory with Gum

Taking a test? While reviewing, try chewing some gum. When it’s time for the test, chew on the same-flavor gum and you’d find your memory significantly enhanced.

(51) Read in the Morning

Want to start reading more books? Do so in the morning! This is the perfect time for your mind to absorb new ideas and concepts. You’ll find that reading books in the morning offers your brain a much-needed exercise that keeps your neurons stimulated all through the day. Plus, reading a few chapters of a book in the morning makes it easier for you to finish the whole thing faster. One book a week, anyone?

(52) Go To Music Festivals

Music is often used as an important element of social gatherings. Even tribes make sure that there are drums playing while members of the group dance and indulge in their favored form of art expression. As it turns out, the same thing can be said for modern societies. Studies suggest that listening to music actually facilitates synchronization in people, making it easier for them to connect and work with each other.

(53) Be a Morning Person

Morning people get more things done, especially if they’ve just had their full 8 hours sleep. The morning is usually when your energy is at its highest, allowing you to complete chores, go to the gym, clean the house and even indulge your creative side. What’s great about the early morning hours is that everyone else is asleep, which means you can relax in quiet comfort. The temperature is also perfect—not too warm and not too cold. And don’t forget the sunrise—definitely an excellent view to start the day!

(54) Block Artificial Light

Let’s say even if you go to bed at the right time, you just can’t seem to fall asleep. If this is the problem, then chances are you’re not getting the right light to induce sleeping. One thing you should understand is that the body uses “light” to release hormones that basically keep the body awake. Thanks to artificial lighting, the body is tricked into believing that the sun is still up when it’s actually night time. Hence, you’ll find yourself twisting and turning hours after bedtime.

A good way to prevent this from happening is through the use of amber colored glasses. The amber color greatly resembles the sunset, therefore allowing the body clock to register the proper time. If you don’t have amber-colored glasses though, just make sure that all artificial light is turned off at least one hour before your bedtime – which can be tough. When all else fails, use the program F.lux to help. The software adjusts the brightness of your computer screen, depending on your geographical location. With your computer screen basically “adjusting” to the proper sunrise-sunset rhythm, you’ll find yourself sleeping deeper and on time.

(55) Stack in the Morning

Ever notice how easy it is for you to stack different activities in the morning? Eating breakfast, showering, brushing your teeth, making the bed, and other activities are often stacked together, making them easier to follow. With your mind incredibly fresh and receptive in the morning, it’s easy enough to add new habits to your life by simply introducing it in the morning hours. Whether its exercise, reading a book, eating healthy food and others—you’ll find that stacking your morning activities would be the best way to learn something new.

(56) Education Podcasts

Want to extend your knowledge but don’t exactly have the time for it? Listen to an educational podcast while eating, commuting, or while brushing your teeth! The beauty of podcasts is that they don’t require visual attention plus you can still perform numerous activities without a problem. Save your favorite podcasts about your favorite subjects in your MP3 player and try listening to them whenever you can.

(57) Love People, Use Things

This is a popular mantra by The Minimalists, and it really works. There’s really no other explanation for it: love people, use things.

Part 03: Lifehacks to Boost Your Social Skills

(58) Everyone is Insecure

This isn’t really a lifehack, but who cares: Feeling shy and insecure when in the presence of new people? Relax—everyone feels that way.

(59) Smile… a LOT

Laughing has been proven to have numerous health benefits—but they can also work as social magnets. Smiling and laughing can actually attract attention and help forge a bond between people. In a team setting, a smile/laugh can promote teamwork and defuse any conflict that might arise.

(60) Check the Feet

If you approach a group of people, check their feet. If they turn to you using only their torso or upper body, chances are you’re not really welcome in the conversation. If their feet also turn toward you, however, then welcome aboard.

(61) Shame your Enemies

Is someone really angry and yelling at you? Don’t yell back or do anything in revenge. Sit back and remain silent. After their temper tantrum, your attackers are more likely to feel ashamed about their behavior.

(62) Ditch the “Yes/No” Questions

An excellent technique is to ask people open-ended questions. This means asking the questions that would require people to explain their answers, therefore allowing you to learn more about them. This actually offers two benefits: (1) it prevents you from having to talk and (2) the other person feels closer to you because you’ve listened to what they have to say! It’s the perfect introvert in a social setting technique.

(63) Keep the Eye Contact

Eye contact is a non-verbal way of letting other people know of your sincerity. By maintaining eye contact during conversation, you are basically telling people that you are interested in what they have to say.

(64) Offline Social Life

Try to extend your social life to offline situations. There’s something to be said about actual contact with people. Studies show that an active social life and relationships can actually increase your happiness level and prevent depression, not to mention it hones your social skills. With excellent relationship and communication capabilities, you’d find yourself forging better and stronger friendships!

(65) Pave the Way

Having a hard time weaving a path through the crowd? When you walk, constantly look over the person’s shoulder, silently communicating to them where you want to go. They automatically respond by going to the side and letting you pass. If you live in NYC, this is the best technique to have.

(66) Remember Names

This one is currently being used in large chain stores. By referring to people by their names, you forge a bond that makes them more likely to buy more or return for further transactions. In a social setting, referring to someone by name makes you appear friendlier and more approachable.

(67) Start Conversations

Start conversations with people you don’t know. It could be the guy in line for coffee or the person sitting beside you on the train. You don’t have to forge strong friendships with these people—just exchange pleasantries to brighten each other’s days.

(68) Compliment Others

Compliments are a great way to endear yourself to people, but only if such compliments are earned. Be generous in your compliments but make sure that it’s given legitimately—otherwise you’ll just sound creepy.

(69) Honesty is the Best Policy

Mark Twain is actually responsible for several quotes about honesty. Possibly the best one, however, would be: “If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.”

(70) The Mirror

Ever heard of the Mirror body language? It’s basically a technique to make other people like you or find out if your date is into you. For example, if you lean forward then your date also leans forward. If they sip water then you also sip water. By doing this, you’re making yourself more likeable to your date! Of course, don’t try to mirror every movement because that would just make things weird.

(71) Nod When Others Talk

This signifies interest in what others are talking about—but only do so when appropriate. You don’t want to look like a bobby head with the constant nodding.

Part 04: Lifehacks to Enhance Your Health and Fitness

(72) Keep your Running Gear Visible

Put your running gear somewhere you can easily see it—perhaps right before your bed, allowing you to see it as soon as you wake up. Just the view of your running gear should prove sufficient encouragement to get you up from the bed and start exercising.

(73) Vacation Outdoors

Vacations are great, right? Yup. But why spend your vacation lounging by the pool when you can do it in more active surroundings? Try including some exercise activities in your vacations such as kayaking, hiking, climbing, and biking to name a few. The sports activities don’t feel like exercise, but you can bet they’ll give you a good workout. Plus, don’t forget that exercise also helps with relaxation and gives you an endorphin high unlike any other!

(74) Exercise in the Morning

As already mentioned, adding new habits first thing in the morning makes it easier for you to stick to them long-term. However, that’s not the only benefit. Exercise actually boosts your “feel good” hormones, reduces stress and lets you approach the rest of the day differently. With higher levels of energy and blood pumping through your veins, you’ll tend to choose healthy breakfast choices and move faster to get ready for the morning.

(75) Instant Sunburn Relief

It’s really easier to prevent sunburn instead of relieving it—but just in case you got too excited, here’s how you can get instant relief: grab a washcloth and pour some raw apple cider vinegar into it. You’d experience instant relief from the sting. Just leave it there for a few minutes until it dries. When dry, lather some coconut oil on to the surface and in just 24 hours, your skin should be feeling normal again.

(76) Easy Splinter Removal

Got a splinter that’s proving too stubborn to remove? Make a baking soda paste and gently apply it on the affected area. Your skin will slowly expand in reaction to the paste, gently pushing off the splinter. When it’s visible, you can grab a pair of tweezers and deftly remove it. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after.

(77) Drink Water Correctly

Drinking 8 glasses of water is the typical standard—but not necessarily true for everyone. To calculate how many glasses you should drink in a day, divide your weight in pounds by 2 and then divide the quotient by 8. This is the amount of glasses you should be drinking within a day. Note though that the timing for drinking water also matters here. Ideally, you should drink 2 glasses after waking up, 1 glass before taking a bath, 1 glass 30 minutes before taking a meal, and 1 glass of water before going to bed.

(78) Invest in a Good Water Bottle

Stop buying bottled waters from the vending machine. They’re expensive plus you’re just adding garbage to the environment. Instead, invest on a good water bottle and take it to work every day. Opt for something that can carry at least 1000ml of water or if that’s too much, a 500ml water bottle would do.

(79) Mark your Water Bottle

Unfortunately, although people know they’re supposed to drink eight glasses of water every day, not everyone remembers to do so. When you get a water bottle, try putting a line on the outside and marking it with the time you’re supposed to drink. Hence, there should be a line for 9AM, 11AM, 12NOON and so on. By doing this, you’ll know if you missed a dose and catch up accordingly.

(80) Get a Dog

Pets are great with both cats and dogs capable of lowering your blood pressure by simply stroking their fur. Of course, if you want to be physically healthy, a dog would be a better pet. With a canine companion, you’d be able to exercise while taking the pooch for a walk. And by the way, taking out the dog for a walk also gives you the chance to meet new people and forge social contacts.

(81) Stairs are Your Friend

Didn’t get your morning exercise? Skip the elevator and go for the stairs! Try taking the first five floors by foot before using the elevator for the rest of the way. You’ll find your body pleasantly humming when you get to the office.

(82) Limit Your Sugar

Sugar has been declared the culprit for numerous health problems today including obesity, diabetes, heart disorder, kidney failure, lethargy and more. It’s been confirmed that consumption of sugar actually increases the chances of serious health issues – including cancer. Try to skip the sweet stuff as much as possible, especially if they come from processed food items. Note: sugar is sometimes indicated as “carbohydrates” in product packaging so watch out for those. Get your sugar through natural means – sweet fruits like apple and banana.

(83) Chocolate is Your Friend, Too

Chocolate may sabotage your waistline, but in moderate amounts this sweet food can be a pretty good bud. Chocolate has been known to release polyphenols which enhances your mood and gives you the feeling of being in love. As it turns out, polyphenols are also antioxidants and in the right amount, it can lower the chances of stroke and diabetes. Ideally though, you should only eat the dark, bitter chocolate to get those benefits.

(84) Get Some Sun

Most people today are avoiding the sun because it’s been linked with skin cancer. However, it’s also been found out that the sun supplies the body with vitamin D and kicks in the “energy” hormones that help you feel strong and awake throughout the day. That being said, make sure you get a fair amount of sun daily—the best rays are usually felt in the morning, warming the skin but not heating it up too much. Stay away from sunlight around noon because this is when the rays are at their worst.

(85) Sauna Your Cigarettes Away

Want to quit smoking? Try visiting the sauna for 3 straight days! Sauna helps with the removal of bodily toxins through the skin—and nicotine is admittedly a toxin. Through sauna, you’ll speed up the detoxification process, allowing you to handle the cravings better. Not to mention sauna can be very relaxing.

(86) Learn How to Cook

Cook a meal for yourself a couple times a week. It’s not only cheaper but it also allows you to choose healthy ingredients—preventing overconsumption of sugar, salt, trans fat, and other dangerous food additives!

(87) Walk… a LOT

Do you notice how often this lifehack gets quoted? Well, that’s because it works. Walking is one of the few exercises today that engages the whole body, helps the muscles relax, puts less stress on the vision and to top it off—it lets you get to where you want to go.

(88) Laugh… a LOT

Another lifehack that’s often quoted, did you know that laughing is an exercise in itself? It gives your lungs a good exercise, relaxes the muscles, boosts the immune system and even prevents heart disease by working out the cardiovascular muscles.

(89) Keep your Plates Small

Want to eat smaller portions? Try getting a smaller plate! People tend to fill their plates whenever they eat which means bigger plates equal bigger portions. Switch that out for smaller plates and your caloric intake automatically halves with zero effort.

(90) 5 Minute Midday Exercises

Are you feeling lethargic at any time between 10AM and 3PM every day? Chances are your sedentary lifestyle is putting your muscles to sleep, slowing down blood flow and making you feel weaker. Fight the lethargy through midday exercises! No need to start sweating: just jog in place, walk briskly around the office or do jumping jacks. This would rejuvenate your energy and get that blood pumping for a dose of wakefulness.

(91) Sex it Up

Yep—sex is definitely an important part of your overall well being. Aside from the fact that it makes you sweat in the most wonderful way, studies show that orgasms offer one of the best methods of relaxation, reducing nerve contractions and alleviating headaches. It can also make your skin glow, promote the release of “feel good” hormones, and reduce the instances of menstrual cramps. If you do it “right”, sex counts as a wonderful cardio exercise resulting in calorie burns.

(92) Caffeine + Theanine

Caffeine combined with theanine has been proven to help you relax while increasing your memory. Unfortunately, coffee may contain caffeine but it has zero theanine inside (duh). So what drink has this magic combination of ingredients? Magic answer: tea—specifically the black and green varieties.

(93) Fuel Up with Omega 3

The brain is constantly hungry—eating around 25% of the energy our bodies produce through glucose. Don’t rush to the cupcake store just yet though! Our brains are very picky and they won’t accept all kinds of calories. They are, however, partial to omega-3 fatty acids which can be found in deep-sea fishes like tuna and salmon. If you can’t eat those daily, then at least get a daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids in capsule form.

(94) Get Whiter Teeth

Want instantly whiter teeth? There are a lot of things that you can do. The first and most common mix is 1 tbsp of baking soda combined with 2 tsp of hydrogen peroxide and 1 tsp of peppermint. You make a paste out of these 3 and use it as toothpaste. You can also try using 3% peroxide, a very mild form of bleach and just swish it in your mouth for a few seconds. Don’t swallow it though and don’t wait too long. If you want a more “natural’ approach, just use the peels of lemons and rub the white part on your pearly whites.

(95) Eat Salmon for Healthy Hair

There are lots of food choices if you want healthier hair. The best choice however would be salmon which is packed in omega-3 fatty acids to keep your scalp healthy. If you’re not a fan of this food though, you can also try eating these in moderate amounts: nuts, green leafy vegetables and beans.

(96) Keep your Exercises Short but Intense

Want to lose weight and build your health but don’t have the time to go to the gym? Studies show that for a leaner body, you want short bursts of intense exercises instead of long and slow workouts. Try checking out routines by Jason Statham and find out just how ripped you can get at just 15 minutes a day.

(97) Put Away Processed Foods!

Seriously—processed food items are not doing you any good. These foods contain preservatives and large servings of salt and sugar that can jeopardize your health. If you want a quick fix for hunger, why not store fruits in your cooler for a healthier yet efficient snack?

(98) Whey Protein Benefits

Want to lose 15 pounds of fat in a month with practically zero effort? Try taking around 30 grams of whey protein in the morning every day. This not only aids with weight loss, but you also get a boost in energy, better metabolism and better focus on your work.

Part 05: Lifehacks for a Healthier Bank Account

(99) Compare, Compare, Compare

Be a comparison shopper! After all, that’s what the internet is for. Start browsing through different websites and comparing product prices before making your choice (at least when it comes the more expensive items on your shopping list).

(100) De-Own

This is a wonderful minimalist approach that basically means this: get rid of the stuff you don’t need. If you’ll notice, the more stuff you own, the more money you have to spend to keep it running smoothly. For example: the television. By de-owning a television, you’ll have more time for socializing, lesser electric bill and no need to pay for the damned cable.

(101) Automate Payment

Automate your payment when it comes to small bills to ensure that there are no penalties for lateness. Late penalties can cost you a lot so it’s best to prevent this from happening.

(102) Swap and Barter

The internet is littered with websites for swaps and barters. Look for one that caters to your specific area and start swapping/bartering books, gadgets, movies, games and more.

(103) Save First, Budget the Rest

Decide on a conservative amount to save every month and automatically deposit it in your savings account. Budget the rest. End of story.

(104) Use Technology

What’s the point of having all these lovely gadgets if you can’t use them to make your financial life a little bit easier? There are currently numerous programs for the computer and mobile phone that could help with your budgeting efforts. Some examples include Mint and Ynab. You need to pay for those though so if you want something simple and free, there’s always Excel and Google Docs to help.

(105) Credit Card

Limit your credit card use! Do you really want to pay an exorbitant interest rate for a $1 snack? Save your credit card purchases for the big stuff and use cash for typical purchases. Doing so actually makes you more mindful of your expenditures.

(106) Know Everyone’s Birthdays

So you’ve got your budget on track and everything is where it’s supposed to be—then you realize that it’s your best friend’s birthday. Sound familiar? Morally, you’re obligated to give a gift, but what if your budget can’t stand it? This is why your calendar should be well-stocked with reminders on every possible occasion that requires gift-giving. With this, you’d be able to easily anticipate birthday expenditures and make room for it in your budget.

(107) Debt Payment Plan

Let’ say you have lots of debt scattered all over 5 or so credit cards—which is a lot, by the way. You’d want to lower that amount to just 2 or 3 credit cards to help you control your expenditures further. To do this, you have to: (1) have your credit card closed and (2) start paying the debt as soon as possible to prevent further interest rates. If you’re not sure exactly how to get this done, a good technique is to close the credit card with the highest interest rates. Do this by paying more than the minimum amount required each month while making sure that the rest of the credit cards are paid off at exactly the minimum amount. Pretty soon, you’ll find yourself unburdened with high-interest rate debt.

(108) Coupons. Yes?

Make use of coupons—but don’t hoard them and use them all at once. Every time you go shopping, perhaps make use of at most 5 coupons for the things you need at home. Try to calculate how much these products would cost if you bought them—this is how much you’ve saved.

(109) Budget with Envelopes

The idea is pretty simple: allot your money depending on whether it should be spent on utilities, food, daily expenses, etc. Put them in separate marked envelopes and if you need to buy anything, grab the money from the right envelope. This way, you would be able to control yourself, avoid overspending and make sure that you don’t grab money from one envelope and spend it somewhere else.

(110)Unplug Appliances

Don’t just turn them off—unplug appliances completely. Even when turned off, a plugged appliance consumed power dubbed as “vampire electricity”, making up for more half the amount you’re paying for every month. After using any appliance, unplug it from the socket and watch your power bill go down.

(111) Avail of Credit Reports

If you’re from the United States, then you’re actually privileged to get free credit reports at least twice a year from the different credit bureaus. All you have to do is inquire and make a request online. Your credit report lets you assess the strength of your financial position plus it lets you check the correctness of the data about your assets and liabilities. Also note that credit reports lets you find out if someone is using your name illegally, so take advantage of this privilege.

(112) Pending Wants List

This is basically a list of things you want to buy but don’t really need. For example, you want to buy a new shoe or a new shirt. Write it down on your Pending Wants list together with the present date. Wait 30 days and if you still want the item, then you can buy it. However, chances are your desire for the purchase isn’t that strong anymore, preventing you from buying something on impulse.

(113) Make Repairs

The internet is practically a DIY encyclopedia, providing you repair instructions on almost anything and everything. Use it to search for information and to fix anything that needs fixing.

(114) Pay Attention to Instructions

Many of our household items become damaged because of improper use. Instead of the promised 10 years, their lifespan might suddenly dwindle to 5 years just because you’re not using it properly. Hence, take the time to find out exactly how your materials are supposed to be use and maintained. Don’t let it become damaged before its time.

(115) Start Making your Coffee

Are you really prepared to spend $5 a day for a Starbucks coffee before going to work? Adding that up, in one month you’re basically spending around 110 bucks just for coffee! Start getting your coffee fix at home and put those 5 dollars in the piggy bank.

(116) Bulk Buy

If you use items by the bulk such as toilet paper or detergent, then don’t be afraid to purchase them in large quantities. Try figuring out how many items you use up in one month and buy all of those in one sweep rather than in pieces. You’ll be amazed at just how cheaper bulk buying can be compared to per-piece purchases.

(117) Buy Used Items

Some items are better bought used. An example would be a new chair, a coffee table or just some classic books. These basically provide the same results without the expensive price tag. In fact, many of the used items for sale are practically unused but are being sold at just half the price.

(118) Shop while Full

If you’re going to go grocery shopping, make sure that you’ve eaten beforehand. You tend to go off the grocery list if shopping while hungry. With your stomach content, you wouldn’t be tempted by anything on the rack.

(119) Prepare Your Lunch

Don’t buy your lunch from the nearest deli! Instead, pack your lunch and save several dollars on this simple task. It’s not only cheaper, but packing your lunch is actually healthier because you are in complete control of what goes in your food.

(120) Customer Rewards

If you tend to buy from the same store for all your grocery needs, then getting a customer reward/loyalty card would be an excellent financial move. Depending on what the store offers, you can get huge discounts or accumulate enough points to get free rewards.

(121) Generic Works Too

Stop buying branded products for non-consequential items you need in your home. For example, do you really need an expensive kind of dishwashing liquid? Of course not! Store brands offer the same results without the expensive price tag.

Part 06: Some More Lifehacks… Just For Fun!

(122) Banana Shoe Shine

Here’s an inexpensive way of getting your black leather shoes to shine: banana peel. Just use the white portion of the banana and your shoes would look new and shiny.

(123) Make Your Stuff Wait in Line

Is the line just too long and too slow moving? Try using your bag, shoes, books, and other stuff to stand in line for you. If you could convince your line-mates to do the same thing, all of you can simply sit down while waiting for “your” turn!

(124) Collar Problems

Is your collar all scrunched up? Use a hair straightener to fix the problem. Be careful though because it is hot! It’s best to remove the shirt first before ironing out the collar.

(125) Increase the Shoe Size

So you just got new shoes that are just one size too small? Grab a newspaper and get it thoroughly wet. Squeeze out the excess water, wrap it in a dry newspaper, and shove them inside your new too-small shoes. Make sure the newspapers occupy every inch of space in there to get the best results! Leave that weird lifehack overnight and be amazed as your shoe gets bigger and more comfortable to wear.

(126) Elevator Trick

They say this works on all elevators. Simply hold the close button until the door closes, and then hold on the elevator number you want simultaneously. Keep on pressing on these two buttons until the elevator starts moving. With this trick, the elevator goes directly to the floor you want without stopping on any floor. Voilá.

(127) Use Toilet Paper Tubes for Cable Organization

Computer cables can be a pain to organize, often tangling with each other and taking almost an hour to straighten out. Try using your toilet paper tubes to keep them in their proper places! The same technique can be used on leftover gift wrappers to prevent them from getting creased!

(128) Take Pictures

Are you sick and tired of people borrowing your stuff and not giving them back? Before letting someone run off with your favorite book, take a picture of the borrower and the book together. That way, you’ll always know where your stuff is plus there’s evidence to prove it!

(129) Vertical Stacking

Start folding and stacking your clothes vertically so you can see them all in one glimpse. This way, you also don’t have to worry about the clothes toppling over when you pull a shirt from the bottom.

(130) Pool Noodle

If you’re afraid of your kid falling off the bed, try using a pool noodle as a temporary barricade. Just put it under the sheet and tuck it in to prevent the pool noodle from moving around. The pool noodle is still squishy and comfortable – like an extra pillow! When you’re done, removing it is a piece of cake.

(131) Heating Leftovers

Got a plate of pasta left over from last night? Before heating it up, try leaving a space in the center so that every inch gets enough heat!

(132) DIY Speaker

Who would have thought toilet paper rolls can be so useful? Combined with some soda cans, this can become the most innovative speaker ever. Not sure how to do this? If you want something simpler, just grab a bowl (the one you use for cereal) and put your phone inside. The shape of the bowl acts as a DIY speaker too!

(133) Exciting First Date

If you’re going out for the first time, take your date somewhere that gets their heart beating fast. It can be to a horror movie or to a roller coaster ride. The point is to get their heart racing so that they’d associate the feeling of excitement with you.

(134) Tape Hack

Having a hard time with a roll of scotch tape? Try putting a bread tab at the end so that you always know where the tape starts. If you don’t have this, then just fold the tape inwards, creating a non-sticky portion that will help you locate the start of the roll easily.

(135) No Mess Pancake

Want those perfectly rounded no-mess pancakes? Try putting the mixture inside a ketchup bottle so you can squeeze directly on the pan!

(136) Nutella Galore

Want to wipe your Nutella jar clean for a satisfying dessert? Put some ice cream in the jar and enjoy! This also works with peanut butter, but you better don’t do it that often…

(137) Go Incognito

If you’re buying plane tickets, make sure you’re on incognito mode or your cache/cookies have been cleared completely. Many airlines use this information to find out whether you’ve visited their site already and add it up to the price of your fare. Clear your cache and get the lowest possible fare for the flight.

(138) Key Identification

Do you always have a hard time finding the right key for your home, car, gym or whatever? Try painting your keys with nail polish to easily differentiate one from the other.

(139) Stop Talking after an Agreement

This one is often used in sales and is very, very effective. Basically, when you’re trying to get someone to agree to something, give your sales pitch and then just stop talking. The first person who talks usually loses, so let the silence reign! On the other hand, if you’ve already gotten an agreement, stop talking yourself. You might oversell it and the person you’re trying to convince chances his/her mind.

(140) Best Time to Buy Airline Tickets

The most expensive airline tickets are usually within 14 days of the flight. If you want the cheapest prices, however, you’d have to buy a ticket 54 days before the scheduled takeoff. This only works for the United States, though. If you’re from Europe, the magic number is 151 days; in Asia it’s 129 days; Mexico: 89 days; Latin America: 80 days; and in the Caribbean it’s 101 days before the flight.

(141) Dropped Your Phone in Water?

Dropped your phone in the water? Don’t fret—it’s not a total loss! Well, maybe. Try saving yourself on the repair cost by burying the phone in rice and leaving it there overnight. Rice tends to absorb water, making sure that your phone is dry when morning comes.

(142) Keep Trashcan Dry

Do you constantly have to contend with a trash can dripping in whatever junk you’ve thrown in there? Try putting old newspapers in the bottom of the trashcan—this will soak up any liquids and make it easier for you to clean the container.

(143) Extra Income for Body Parts

Need more money to pad your income? Try selling some of your body parts—and no, I certainly don’t mean hacking on your leg or hand. Try selling your hair for example, depending on how gorgeous it is. You can also try selling blood—which is actually a good idea if you’re a guy. With some of your blood sold off, the body can reproduce a fresh and better supply.

(144) Lemon Freshener

Soak a cotton ball in lemon and leave it inside the refrigerator and leave it there for a few hours. Abracadabra – no more bad smell!

(145) Buried Alive

Although it’s unlikely to happen, some of people have this fear of being buried alive—for very obvious and logical reasons. So what do you do? Here’s a step-by-step technique on how to survive this horror movie-esque situation.

1) Conserve your air. A coffin has enough air to keep you breathing for 1-2 hours. Don’t breathe too quickly. Just take one full gasp of oxygen and hold it for as long as possible before slowly exhaling. Don’t swallow since this will only make things worse.

2) Tap SOS on the roof of the coffin: three fast raps followed by three slow ones and then three fast raps again. If no one hears you after a few minutes of tapping, it’s time to get out of that coffin yourself.

3) A wooden coffin would be easy to breach. Start by pushing on the lid to find out how long you’ve been buried. Is it giving in a little? If so, continue on with your breakout plan.

4) Remove your shirt. This might seem like a stupid thing to do, but your shirt can actually be used to protect yourself from the soil while breaking out. Do this by crossing your arms and then uncrossing them, landing your hands on your shoulders. From this point, try pulling your shirt upward as far as you can.

5) The objective here is to protect your head, so the shirt should be covering your face with the top portion tied in a knot. This way, there’s zero chance of the soil getting in your face!

6) Start trying to break out of the coffin using your feet. Your most powerful muscles are in your feet so use them wisely! As you manage to break through, it’s important that you pay close attention to the soil. The goal here is to make sure that as you move your body, the soil replaces the space you were originally in. Don’t let the soil weigh you down.

7) Slowly sit up and work your way to a standing position. Thanks to your shirt cover, there shouldn’t be any soil problems keeping you from breathing. Slowly work your way up, climb out, bam—alive!

The difficultly level depends on the soil and coffin. Wet soil would be hard to break through but breaking free of loose soil would be a piece of cake. Make sure to tell your loved ones you want a wooden pine coffin—just in case, you know…

What Would You Do if You Could Achieve Anything You Want in Life?

Let me ask you four simple questions: What is the meaning of life? Is there a purpose for everything? What will happen in your future? Will you ever become a millionaire?

Here’s the answer to all of them: You have no idea. But perhaps these are the questions that make life worth living?

Discover Why Goals Will Help You to Have One Hell of a Time

The only thing you can be sure of is that you have the power to create the answers yourself—by creating goals.

By setting long-term goals, you are actually writing the future chapters of your life. Of course, this takes a lot more than just simply writing them down and hoping for the best, but hey—that’s why this book is written; to make sure you will get to your objectives no matter what.

Inside Goal Setting: A 7 Step Guide to Reach Your Goals and Have One Hell of a Time you will discover 8 principal steps that outline exactly what you need to do in order to properly set and accomplish your goals. Click here and check it out.

Did You Like This Book?

First of all, thanks a lot for purchasing and reading this book.

There are a lot of books out there, and I really appreciate that you decided to give a chance to my little book.

And by the way, if you enjoyed this book, received value from it, or just have a burning desire to do me a huge favor, please take a minute or three and leave an honest review for this book on Amazon.

Thanks, I hope you’ll have an awesome day!

p.s. If you’ve got any questions, don’t hesitate and email me at matt@rcpub.co. I’ll try to answer every single email as soon as possible.

Table of Contents

DISCLAIMER

So What Exactly is a Lifehack?

Part 01: Lifehacks to Increase Your Productivity

Part 02: Lifehacks to Improve Your Personal Life

Part 03: Lifehacks to Boost Your Social Skills

Part 04: Lifehacks to Enhance Your Health and Fitness

Part 05: Lifehacks for a Healthier Bank Account

Part 06: Some More Lifehacks… Just For Fun!

Did You Like This Book?