It’s a new year and getting back into the swing of things can be a challenge! I wanted to share some tips and advice on ways to make 2024 your best year yet. It’s so important to focus on being the best version of YOU because you are worth it! Give yourself some grace and love as we start 2024 and try some of these tips!
1. When it comes to fitness goals make a plan and stick with it! While you may have shifted your usual workout plan, that doesn’t mean you can’t make a new routine. A routine is so important for our physical and mental health, consistency is key to achieve the goals you want. Start off slow and then gradually increase the days you make time to workout. Once you have a schedule, add it to the calendar or somewhere that you can see and remind yourself every day.
2. Sleep better! When it comes down to trying to fall asleep, stay off your phone and turn your TV off. Not only is the blue light known to cause insomnia but it can also cause eye fatigue and premature skin aging. Give your brain a rest and turn off the electronic devices, this will help calm your mind and allow you to chill out. Make sure to remove your makeup, take a shower, and complete your skincare routine. This way you will feel fresh and relaxed when you get into bed. I always have to remove my makeup and wash my face before bed! The nights I don’t I swear I don’t get as good of a night’s rest.
3. Submerge your energy with others who uplift and motivate you to be a better person. No one enjoys being around someone who is constantly negative or putting others down. It doesn’t do me any good to hang around people who do not have the positive mindset that I do. Cut out those toxic people. Sometimes toxic people are hard to get away from because of the circumstances. If this is the case for you, I encourage you to stay strong and to be a positive light for them. Inspire them with your words and most importantly through your actions.
4. Get out of bed when your alarm goes off. I know lounging and looking at your phone always seems ideal but put off checking your phone. It can include a lot of stress factors, give yourself the first 15 minutes of waking up without looking at your phone. Sometimes when I check my phone it derails my entire morning routine.
5. Stretch your body. Whether you love to workout in the morning or not, make sure you do a quick 5 -10 minute stretch before starting your day. It’s a great way to get your blood flowing!
6. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. This is one of those tasks that we all know is important but always seems to be prioritized last. Sometimes we get so involved in work or our day to day that we forget to drink water. I’m 100% guilty of that! Dehydration can lead to headaches and overall slower performance. Stay hydrated and figure out ways to add more water to your daily routine.
7. Be organized. A healthy routine goes hand in hand with organization. Spend some time each week organizing a part of your life that you have been wanting to tackle. Going through iPhone photos, organizing emails, cleaning out your closet or giving your kitchen a refresh, these simple tasks don’t have to feel intimidating. Starting off each week on an organized foot will help instill healthy routines year round!
8. Limit sugar! Yes, caffeine, sugar, and carbs will boost your energy momentarily but the drop will make you feel extra sleepy. Eating healthy and limiting sugar will keep you energized in the long run. Whole grains, fruit, protein, etc. will keep you more stable throughout the day.
9. Don’t forget to get fresh air. Take a walk or bike ride after work and try to spend at least 30 minutes outside. Walking is one of the easiest ways to exercise outside.
10. Setting boundaries- a work/life balance is so important. Over functioning and over giving can be detrimental to both your physical and mental health. Saying yes, when you want to say no can be the ultimate energy drain. Prioritizing yourself should always be your number one goal and setting healthy boundaries. It can be hard to master but once you do, you will be living your best life.
XO
Joie