The start of the new year is the perfect time to reflect back on bad habits of the year past, and start anew, right? Not necessarily. Some people are good at making big changes all at once and other people do better taking small steps to get there. Some people are inspired to forge a new path because the clock signals it’s time; others feel constricted by the idea a new habit has to start on a certain date. When it comes to resolutions or any type of behavior change, we’re all different. There’s no one right way. What works for you might not work for me.
One thought to consider is replacing the idea of resolutions with healthy habits. Resolutions can get broken, and breaking them might feel like failure. Healthy habits are a journey, and with any journey, there are bends in the road that don’t necessarily interfere with the final destination.
Times are tough with the pandemic and lots of unpleasant things happening around us. But, you’ve got to hold your ground. Just like our bodies need to be fed, so do our minds and our inner-selves. The ability to take a step back and become more self-aware of our presence allows us to become accepting, loving and kinder to ourselves. Every time you pass by the mirror, look at yourself and speak to the body parts that you like about yourself and even the ones you don’t like. Self affirmations work a great deal in changing your mood. Give yourself a smile, and be thankful for who you are in your entirety. This new year, practice and preach self love like a habit. Once you’ve acknowledged the beauty that lies within you, being vivacious and brilliant becomes second nature!
The most advocated habit by doctors, nutritionists, and skin experts is to hydrate yourself better. While some of us may prefer a heavy dose of caffeine in the morning, try switching it with a refreshing alternative such as lemon water to get your day started. Eating and drinking wholesome meals with liquids throughout the day ensures that our bodies get nourished and fight off the daily wear and tear that we expose our bodies to. If vitamins, minerals, protein, fats, water, and carbohydrates are essential for survival, so is water. This new year, ensure you drink at least eight to ten glasses of water every single day. Try a water reminder app or carry a water bottle wherever you go. It may help you set it into a habit.
The bottom line is that this is what we want people to know about making habit changes: Don’t get discouraged if the resolution that worked for your sister-in-law or coworker or best friend doesn’t work for you. It doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you, it just means you might need to find a different strategy that works for you.
We love being a part of your wellness journey, whether you are a current client, past client, blog reader or interested community member! We are ready to help you be your best you.