We tend to make resolutions at the start of a new year, but let’s face it, most of them fall by the wayside after a few weeks. A new month is a perfect opportunity to start fresh and work towards creating the life you want.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been a wake-up call for many of us, and we’ve learned several hard lessons from that experience. It’s taught me to acknowledge that life is really too short, to enjoy the company of my loved ones while I can, and to prioritize self-care; because jobs come and go.
With those lessons in mind, I’ve shifted from setting daunting, “go-getter” type of resolutions, to just being human and learning to enjoy my time on earth.
Looking to set new goals that can transform the way you experience the world? Here are eight suggestions to get you started.
Worry Less
It’s easy to get caught up in worry and anxiety, especially in the current climate. However, worrying doesn’t solve anything and can make us feel worse. Try to be more mindful of your thoughts and when you notice yourself worrying, take a step back and remind yourself that most things we worry about never actually happen. Instead, focus on the present moment and what you can control.
It’s usually the uncertainty and the What-If scenarios that keep my mind spinning. Asking myself “what’s the worst that can happen?” usually helps to keep me grounded. Now I know what my fate could be, I can either choose to accept it or focus on finding ways to avoid it.
Sleep More
Sleep is crucial for our physical and mental health – especially if you’re a highly sensitive person – yet it’s something many of us neglect. We’re so busy with work, socializing, and keeping up with our responsibilities that we don’t give ourselves enough time to rest.
This month, make a commitment to prioritize your sleep. Here are some tips to help you sleep more:
- Stick to a consistent sleep schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Take a warm bath, read a book, or practice meditation to help you wind down before bed.
- Create a sleep-friendly environment: Make sure your bedroom is dark, cool, and quiet, and invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows.
Be Present
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the future or dwell too on the past. However, the present moment is all we have. Being present means paying attention to what’s happening right now, without judgment. It’s a powerful way to reduce stress and increase happiness.
Try to be mindful of your surroundings and fully engage at the moment; whether you’re conversing with someone, enjoying a meal, or taking a walk. Whenever you can, put away your phone and any distractions, and try to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Multi-tasking is not all that it’s cracked up to be.
Find your inner child
Finding time to play and have fun can help reduce stress, boost creativity, and improve overall well-being. As we get older, we often lose our sense of playfulness and spontaneity. However, it’s important to let go of our inhibitions and have fun once in a while.
Make time for play and try out new things, whether it’s taking up a new hobby, going on an adventure, or just doing something silly with friends. Make it a goal to do something fun and playful at least once a week, and embrace your inner child.
Celebrate More
Celebrating your achievements and the accomplishments of others can help you feel more positive and optimistic. It’s a lot like practicing gratitude.
Be on the lookout for more things to celebrate in your life. Whether it’s a big achievement like getting a promotion or a small win like finishing a project, your kid during their football game, your baby’s first steps. Nothing’s too little. Take the time to acknowledge good things and celebrate them. Treat yourself to something you enjoy, or celebrate with friends and loved ones.
Reclaim your Passions
Burdened with daily responsibilities, it’s easy to lose sight of the things that bring us joy and fulfillment. Adult life can get quite monotone and dull, but finding something you’re passionate about can help you feel more engaged and energized.
- Take some time to reflect on the things that have brought you joy and fulfillment in the past
- Make a list of your interests and passions
- Schedule time each week to engage in activities that align with your passions, whether it’s painting, playing music, dancing or just reading a good book
Appreciate more – Others, yourself
It’s not too hard to get caught up in negativity and focus on what we don’t have. Being grateful for the good things in your life is a wonderful practice for your mental health. However, when it comes to human relationships, things aren’t always perfect. What do you do when you can’t find something to be grateful for?
Practicing appreciation allows you to recognize & acknowledge a person, even when there’s nothing to be thankful to them for.
Appreciate yourself for committing to a healthier lifestyle, even if you are still miles away from your target state. Show appreciation to your loved ones for how hard they work at school, at their job, or at being a better partner, even if they haven’t won a scholarship yet, or gotten that promotion you’ve all been waiting for. Cheer for the journey, not just the end results.
Be unapologetically you
The system teaches you that it’s better to fit in. Follow the masses, don’t be a weirdo that sticks out like a sore thumb. While blending in may come in handy in certain situations, it takes way too much energy to keep playing pretend. Your quirks and differences are what make you special!
Speak up for yourself and express your opinions and beliefs. Don’t be afraid to share your perspective with others. Don’t be afraid to say no to things that don’t align with your values or priorities. Embracing your authentic self can help you feel more alive, confident, and fulfilled.
Last Words…
After everything we’ve been through these past few years, it’s okay to take things a little slower. These eight goals are simple and easy enough to incorporate into your everyday life but can have a giant impact on the way you interact with the world.
Remember, it’s never too late to start making positive changes in your life, so why not start today?
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