Ever scrolled through social media and stumbled upon a “life hack” that made you think, “Wait, isn’t that just…normal?”
It’s crazy to see the most basic information described as some sort of long-held secret. In our quest for quick fixes and shortcuts, we sometimes forget that many of these so-called hacks are just common sense in disguise. With that in mind, here are some of the most overhyped “life hacks” that are really just basic life skills.
1. Use a banana hanger to prevent your bananas from bruising.
Seems obvious, right? Bananas are delicate fruits, and hanging them up helps prevent them from getting squashed and bruised in the fruit bowl. But hey, who needs a fancy banana hanger when you can just use a regular hook or even a clothes pin? Sometimes the simplest solutions are the best.
2. Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” mode while you’re working.
Duh! Constant notifications are distracting and can kill your productivity. Silencing your phone while you’re trying to focus is a no-brainer. It’s not exactly rocket science, but hey, sometimes we need a reminder to disconnect from the digital world and prioritise our tasks.
3. Drink water when you’re feeling thirsty.
This might sound like a joke, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to stay hydrated. Drinking water is essential for our bodies to function properly. So, when you feel that dry mouth or slight headache, don’t reach for a sugary drink; grab a glass of water instead. Your body will thank you.
4. Get enough sleep to avoid feeling tired and grumpy.
Sleep is essential for our physical and mental health. When we don’t get enough sleep, we’re more likely to be irritable, stressed, and unproductive. So, instead of scrolling through your phone until the wee hours, prioritise getting a good night’s sleep. You’ll wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
5. Use a planner or calendar to keep track of your appointments and tasks.
Source: Unsplash Staying organised can be a challenge, but using a planner or calendar can help you stay on top of your schedule and avoid missing important deadlines. It’s a simple but effective way to manage your time and reduce stress. Whether you prefer a physical planner or a digital calendar, find a system that works for you and stick to it.
6. Take a break when you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed.
Source: Unsplash Sometimes, all you need is a few minutes to step away from whatever you’re doing and recharge. Taking a break can help you clear your head, reduce stress, and boost your productivity. So, don’t be afraid to take a walk, listen to some music, or simply close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. You’ll come back feeling refreshed and ready to tackle whatever challenges come your way.
7. Use a laundry basket to carry your groceries.
Source: Unsplash Who needs fancy reusable shopping bags when you have a perfectly good laundry basket at home? It’s spacious, sturdy, and easy to carry. Plus, it’s a great way to get a mini-workout in while you’re at it. Just make sure you give it a good clean before you toss your clothes in it!
8. Use a rubber band to open a stubborn jar.
We’ve all struggled with a stubborn jar lid at some point. But did you know that a simple rubber band can help you get a better grip and open it with ease? It’s a classic trick that actually works. Just wrap the rubber band around the lid, give it a twist, and voilà! No more wrestling with jars.
9. Use a sticky note to clean the crumbs out of your keyboard.
Keyboards are notorious for collecting crumbs, dust, and other debris. But instead of turning your keyboard upside down and shaking it (which can actually damage it), try using a sticky note to gently remove the crumbs. The sticky side will pick up the debris, leaving your keyboard clean and crumb-free.
10. Read a book or listen to a podcast to learn something new.
Learning doesn’t have to be boring or confined to a classroom. Reading a book, listening to a podcast, or watching a documentary can be a fun and engaging way to expand your knowledge and discover new interests. So, next time you’re feeling bored or looking for a way to pass the time, consider learning something new. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy it.
