“New year, new me.” Whether you say it jokingly or seriously, we’ve all said it. New Year’s resolutions are set every year with the intentions of a new, better version of yourself. But studies show that around 80% of New Year’s resolutions will be abandoned by this time of the year. Setting goals and intentions to better your lifestyle is always good, but it’s important to consider if the set goals are, in fact, realistic. Going to the gym every single day, completely changing your diet, and more are very common resolutions, but they’re also among the resolutions that are, most often, broken quickly. This year consider honing in on bettering your lifestyle habits, rather than completely changing who you are. Practicing regular self-care and mindful habits will lead to an amazing glow up, inside and out. If you want the ultimate glow up this year, practice at least some of these 20 habits!
- Set aside intentional time – Use this time to be intentional with your spirit. Whether you prefer meditation, prayer, yoga, reading, or another intentional practice, it’s vital to practice mindfulness in some form. Practicing mindfulness is good for easing the effects of anxiety and depression, so carving out time for your mind to take a break will lift your spirits all year long.
- Take a nap – We often get caught up in the constant motion of life. We, as a culture, having normalized the lack of sleep and proper care for our overall well-being. Taking a nap gives you a bit more beauty sleep, relax your mind, and make you alert. Get more done this year by taking quick, intentional naps.
- Drink less – Some alcohol, especially wine, comes with a variety of health benefits. But remember to be intentional with how you treat your body and allow it to feel energized and strong.
- Drink more – Hydrating is crucial. Invest in a favorite water bottle to ensure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Mask often – Indulge in a face mask a few times a week, treating your skin to a beauty bonus.
- Exfoliate head to toe – Treat yourself to baby-soft skin by exfoliating head to toe. A gentle scrub for the body, a chemical exfoliant for the face, and a scalp scrub will make you feel like a new person out of the shower.
- Limit artificial sugar – We get it, dessert is everything. But search for alternatives, such as smoothies or nice cream. Your skin and body will thank you later!
- Juicing – While it’s still extremely important to maintain a healthy diet, adding in some juices never hurts.
- Exercise, if only a little – At least a few times a week, try to carve out about half an hour for a workout, whether it be cardio or something more intensive. Working out improves your heart, mind, and overall health!
- Clean twice a week – It’s easy to get cluttered throughout a busy schedule, but cleaning twice a week gives you a clean, calm atmosphere during both the week and weekend.
- Turn off your phone – Getting sucked into your phone happens fast, but lasts for hours. Get more done during the day and more sleep at night by having a designated, far away spot for your phone.
- Be intentional with your circle – Learn the difference between a friend and an acquaintance, and know which friends are the kind of people you want in your life.
- Budget better – If you often find yourself tight on money, make a detailed budget to keep track of where your money goes, how you want to spend it, and how you can treat yourself.
- Learn something new – Read a book, take a course, learn a new language, do something that challenges your mind and takes you out of your comfort zone.
- Wake up a little earlier – Various studies show waking up earlier improves your productivity and mental health, so enjoy that little bit of extra “me time.”
- Prioritize breakfast – Don’t be trapped in busy culture this year. Take just a few minutes to properly fuel your body for the day!
- Do the environment some favors – Practice the three R’s whenever possible, no matter how small the action may seem.
- Enjoy the environment – Get some fresh air as often as possible, whether it be from a short walk or simply enjoying your morning coffee outside.
- Laugh often – In your carved out “me time,” watch, read, or listen to something that will make you laugh, because we all know laughter is medicine for the soul.
- Turn can’t to can – The best way to believe in yourself, this year and every year, is to believe in yourself.
New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be completely out of reach, or something you’ll lose track of within a few weeks. Simply emphasize being intentional with your time, choices, and actions, and you’ll be glowing from the inside out all year long.
