You might have jumped two feet into January with a bang and with so many other commitments you’re starting to feel that initial motivation is beginning to wane. Do you feel like you have lost your mojo and are not quite sure where to go from here? Do not worry, you aren’t alone – many will be feeling exactly the same. There is plenty you can do to keep yourself on track, re-focus and keep working towards your 2024 goals, perhaps in a more sustainable fashion. Just making some small lifestyle changes can really help you feel more energised and with renewed enthusiasm.
Here are my top tips:
- Ensuring you have some "You" time every day even if just 30 minutes - think of something you enjoy which also will help you relax and de stress - whether it be yoga, a walk, coffee with a friend, cooking, a relaxing bath etc. For me it's walking the dogs and being in nature (without my phone!) Ensure you have time for self-care and make it a priority.
- Address the source of your stress – what is it that is making you feel overwhelmed? If it is a bit of everything then scale back a little, look at the work/life balance (easier said than done I can second that!) Schedule in your exercise - so important for both physical and mental health - it can be just 150 minutes a week but ensure it is something you enjoy and which can be consistent. Again time for you and so good for that mood boost.
- Have fun – we often get caught up in the day to day stresses of work, rushing to get to appointments and looking after the family. Take a moment to stop and think about the things you really enjoy. Make time with your family, friends, partner to do the things that you really love.
- Screen time – time spent scrolling can have a really negative impact on our mental health, we fall into the trap of comparing ourselves and our lives to others and that really doesn’t help. Take some time out from social media, maybe have a screen ban from 6pm-6am or something to start off a good habit. Which brings me onto the next tip….
- Sleep - literally your best friend and the foundation to balance and feeling good- if we sleep well then everything else is brighter and more manageable - from the food choices we make to the tasks ahead at work or within the family. Get a good bedtime routine going - less screen time, an evening bath, trying to get to bed at a reasonable time. Other top tips include avoiding caffeine in the afternoon (or at least after 4pm), avoiding late night heavy meals and reducing alcohol intake.
- Eat well - try to cook more. The right diet will keep your body healthy, give you energy, and boost your spirits. Plan your meals and keep them varied. Without the right fuel our bodies cannot function correctly.
- Be kind to yourself - not everything is going to be perfect every day and try not to compare your lifestyle with others. If you've set yourself goals this year make them achievable and realistic and if you have a day when it doesn't go according to plan just start again tomorrow.
- Write it down - I find that keeping notes/ making a schedule not only really helps me stay on track but also shows how far you've come, expressing your feelings and staying motivated.
- Finally – “Everything in moderation" is a phrase you hear often, and with good reason. Everything in moderation means that there's a healthy balance to your life. You do you. And remember you can’t do everything. I find that if I can get one thing ticked off the daily to do list then I am most def winning!
What are your top tips to stay on track and keep motivation high?
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Caroline x
