A new week and a new month begins and what better time to set new goals and take steps to simplify and create a healthier, more productive, and happier life? Whether you’re working, caring for loved ones, taking classes, or preparing to downsize, small changes in daily habits can make a big difference in how the days flow and can reduce stress, anxiety and prevent burnout.
Many people find that shopping for food and preparing meals can become overwhelming. By cooking a large Sunday meal and doing some food prep for the week, the burden of deciding what to eat each day is lessened. Cooking at home is usually healthier, and it’s certainly less expensive than eating out, but it does take planning. Large batch stews, sheet pan meals, or chili can be reheated and enjoyed throughout the week.
The morning is the time to start the day off on a positive note with some movement, meditation, and goal-setting. According to a recent Mr. Porter Lifestyle post, choosing three top priorities and focusing on these tasks brings structure to the day and helps people use their time more efficiently and productively. Doing the most difficult task first thing can help keep the day moving along more smoothly. Research has found that we aren’t as good at multi-tasking as we may think.
We all can be guilty of spending too much time on our devices, checking social media, reading emails, or scanning the headlines. While it’s important to stay connected, limiting these activities to a set timeframe is also beneficial. Perhaps you only check emails twice a day; once in the morning and once again in the late afternoon.
Simplify your work or home environment by decluttering and embracing technology that makes life easier can also alleviate some daily stressors. Voice assistant-connected devices like a smart thermostat can help a household or office run efficiently and with less effort.
By mid-life, most adults know what clothing style and fit best suits them. Instead of spending time and energy trying to decide what to wear each day – simplify your wardrobe by creating capsules of pieces that are versatile, flattering, comfortable, in good condition, and fit properly. With fewer choices that suit your lifestyle and feel good to put on, decision fatigue can be avoided.
When life throws you some curveballs, as it will, take time for yourself to go for a walk in the park, have coffee with close friends, enjoy a hobby or read a few chapters of a gripping novel. Meditating to quiet a busy mind, stretching, or practicing Tai Chi or Yoga are all good ways to de-stress. Taking breaks to do something pleasurable, even if it’s just listening to music on a daily work commute, helps increase happiness and life satisfaction.
Read more about productivity, life satisfaction, reducing stress, and improving health and well-being by following this link to Wellness and Productivity Specialist Kevin Scheepers’ blog.
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