3 Good Habits
“I resolve to eat more waffles, even though this resolution is in direct conflict with my most important resolution of the New Year, which is to lose two pounds. Waffles are amazing. When I’m dying, I don’t want to regret not having eaten more of them,” said the late Nora Ephron. Does this quote make you think of your plans for this year? What if you could start some habits that will help you accomplish any goal? Here are three to consider:
1. Acknowledge your accomplishments. It’s easy to focus on the big picture and lose sight of the details that make up the picture. For instance, if your goal is to increase your net worth by 25%, you could be looking at a big number like $25,000, but paying off a credit card with an $800 balance is a step in the direction of increasing your net worth because you reduced debt. Make a note of your small accomplishments that move you in the direction of your goals. You could keep a list on your phone or you could keep a small bulletin board in a place where you will see it every day. At the end of the year, your list of accomplishments will make you proud.
2. Stop watering dead plants. Whether it’s investing time and energy into an organization that no longer serves you or maintaining a stale relationship, watering dead plants is a huge waste of mental and physical energy. Are you wondering what dead plant you’re watering? It’s the person, group or commitment that you are thinking of as you read this sentence. When you stop watering dead plants, you have more time for the people and activities that are important.
3. Practice regular self-care. Working hard and taking care of everyone else seems like the right thing to do. But when you neglect your health and well-being, you have less energy, focus and patience. You should make you a priority in your life. Sleep well, ditch empty calories, exercise a few times a week and get some fresh air and sunshine. Set aside time to watch a sitcom, go to a movie, get a pedicure or whatever activity makes you smile, even if it’s occasionally eating waffles. When you are thinking about neglecting yourself, reconsider. Break the bad habit of putting you on the back burner.
