13 Signs That You Need More Free Time

You Can't Remember the Last Time You Were Spontaneous

You used to say yes to impromptu jumping into a fountain or cheap weekend flights to Mexico. Now when someone asks you to join her for a last-minute potluck dinner party, you think of the havoc it would wreak on your schedule.

If your schedule is starting to feel more like your boss than your assistant, it's a warning sign that you're overbooked. While some people prefer planning to surprises, some amount of spontaneity is important to adding spice to our routine, and stimulating our brains with new experiences.

Try this: Like that old principle "a closed hand can't receive," a closed schedule can't be open to receiving all the great experiences the universe might be trying to fling our way. Next week, build a half day of unplanned breathing room into your schedule, and see where that time takes you. Be spontaneous, and don't think of what you want to do until that moment arrives.