The following is a list of general tips that you can utilize to increase your feelings of competence, autonomy, and connectedness. According to Self-Determination Theory (SDT), these are every human’s three basic psychological needs. Attaining these will help you to take charge of your own life.
Competence
- Download an app to learn something new each day (i.e. language/hobby)
- Competence Growth Platform
- Babbel-Language Learning
- Duolingo
- Simply Guitar/Piano
- Journal Bank
- Theoretical questions that you can answer one a day/week and write for 10-15 minutes
Autonomy
- Do what you can to find and follow your intrinsic interests!
- Set small goals that are important to you
- Make a daily schedule surrounding your priorities
- Schedule activities within the day of what you want to do and enjoy
- Have a checklist of personal goals for the day/week
- Start a new hobby that satisfies your interests. Some ideas include knitting, biking, photography, painting, journaling, scrapbooking, baking, and reading.
Connectedness
- Schedule daily or weekly FaceTime or calls with friends or family
- Send and write letters
- Go on walks
- Have a bonfire
- Have meaningful conversations with others
- Start a book/movie/album club
- Making dinner with friends and family once or twice a week/month