In the journey of self-improvement, small changes can make a significant difference. Habits are the building blocks of our lives, shaping our days and ultimately our destinies. Whether you're aiming for personal growth, enhanced productivity, or simply a happier and healthier lifestyle, incorporating new habits can be the catalyst for positive change. Here I am going to share five habits that I've started to implement into my own life that have proven to make me happier and healthier all around.
Don't get me wrong, it's still a process and there is plenty more I plan on trying, but this is where I started and so far I'm happy with the results.
Morning Routine Mastery:
The way you start your day sets the tone for everything that follows. Designing a morning routine tailored to your needs and goals can supercharge your productivity and mindset. Consider incorporating activities such as meditation, journaling, exercise, or reading into your mornings. These rituals can help you center yourself, cultivate gratitude, and set clear intentions for the day ahead.
I plan on doing a separate post about my morning routine and all of the new serums and potions I've been trying. But for now I want to say that aside from not starting my day with immediately scrolling on my phone, one of my favorite things I've incorporated into my morning routine was red light therapy. Not only is it great for my skin, but the practice gives me something to do with my hands while I take the time to set my intentions for the day. Click here to see the Red Light Wand that I use. I am sure there are better machines out there but right now your girl is on a budget and this was a way for me to try something new without breaking the bank and as of right now I have no complaints.
Mindful Consumption:
In today's fast-paced world, we're bombarded with information, distractions, and stimuli. Practicing mindful consumption involves being intentional about what you allow into your mind and body. This could mean limiting your time on social media, unsubscribing from unnecessary emails, or curating your media diet to include content that inspires and educates you. By being more selective about what you consume, you can reduce stress, improve focus, and reclaim precious time for activities that truly nourish your soul.
I've spent some time the last few months going through who I follow on social media and asking myself if their content is bringing positivity into my life or negativity. If its the latter, I've been either muting or unfollowing because right now I'm focused on consuming content that encourages me, challenges me and inspires me. Another thing that I've done is set timers for all of my apps. I've allotted a specific amount of time for social media and when the timer goes off, I am locked out of the app until a new day starts. This may seem extreme for some people but for me it's been working.
One of the ways that I've started my day with catering to this mindset was by adding this very simple daily calendar to my morning routine. It gives you simple prompts to help you be more mindful. Click here to check out that calendar.
Daily Movement Breaks:
Movement is medicine for both the body and the mind. Incorporating short movement breaks throughout your day can boost energy levels, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. Whether it's a brisk walk around the block, a few minutes of stretching at your desk, or a quick dance break to your favorite song, find opportunities to move your body regularly. Not only will this improve your physical health, but it will also sharpen your mental clarity and creativity.
For me, I walk my pup at least once a day but I've been challenging myself to do more steps in the day and one of the ways that I've been able to do that is to walk while I work. I have a big treadmill in my garage which is ok for now, because it's not too hot out, but for the summer months I am looking to invest in a walking pad that won't take up too much room and that I can have inside. Click here to check out the walking pad on my wish list.
Gratitude Practice:
Cultivating an attitude of gratitude is a powerful tool for enhancing happiness and resilience. Take a few moments each day to reflect on the things you're thankful for, whether big or small. This could be anything from the warmth of the sun on your face to the support of loved ones or the opportunities that come your way. Keeping a gratitude journal or simply mentally acknowledging your blessings can shift your perspective and foster a greater sense of contentment and abundance.I think the important thing about this practice to remember is that some days it may not feel so easy to identify a grateful moment you might have had. And that is ok. If you can't think of anything else you can be thankful that you woke up and were given the chance to live another day. I know that may sound cliche but it's still true. Not everyone is going to wake up tomorrow and if you do, that is something to be thankful for. What I love about this practice is that it challenges your mind to look at things in a different light, you can be thankful that you ran into a friend you hadn't seen in awhile, you can be thankful that it didn't rain when it was supposed to be stormy, you can be thankful that your favorite TV show has a new episode or favorite author has a new book or favorite musician has a new album, you can be thankful that you got to witness a child full on belly laughing or a couple dancing in the park. There are so many beautiful moments to be thankful for that are overlooked everyday. This practice helps you recognize them.
I love this journal because it takes only 5minutes, but is a great way to help you remember the little and big moments and things that happened throughout your day that you can be thankful for. Check out the journal here. You don't need this, but if you are struggling to start practicing gratitude this may be a tool that can help you.
Just as your morning routine sets the stage for the day, how you end your day is equally important. Incorporate an evening reflection ritual to review your accomplishments, acknowledge areas for improvement, and prepare for restorative sleep. Spend a few minutes journaling about your day, expressing gratitude, and setting intentions for the following day. This practice not only promotes self-awareness and personal growth but also helps you unwind and decompress, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the day ahead.
I am someone who still uses a paper planner on top of a digital one and I've found that it is a great place for me to recap the day, as well as set goals for the week, month and year. For me, I like that it is all in one place and that it's something that I already had in my routine I'm just modifying how I use it a little. You can check out the planner that I use here.
Incorporating these five habits into your daily life may require some initial effort and discipline, but the long-term benefits are well worth it. Remember, transformation is a journey, not a destination. And consistency is the key. It's important to be patient with yourself, to celebrate your progress, and to keep striving to become the best version of yourself. I've learned that by embracing these habits, I am actively choosing to cultivate a life filled with purpose, joy, and fulfillment and that's all I could ask for.
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