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Despite all of our differences, everybody can agree on one thing: 2020 was a rough year all around. We’ve all become stretched thin, and there seems to be a never-ending onslaught of bad news when we check in on our screens. However, this does not mean we should give up hope! There has never been a better time to invest some time and energy on YOURSELF and on your own self-improvement.
You are worth it.
Read on to discover some routines to incorporate into your life that will help facilitate your self-improvement journey.
1. Start A Gratitude Journal
One of the simplest ways to remind yourself of all the amazing things you have is to consciously name them on a daily basis. For many of us, the easiest way to do this is to jot down a few things in our little notebook and ruminate on them for a few moments each morning or evening. It gives us a chance to ground ourselves and be thankful for our gifts – even when life throws us a curveball. If you’re not much of a writer, consider actively thinking and acknowledging a few things you’re thankful for during your evening bedtime routine. You’ll be surprised how easy and pleasant this simple activity is.
2. Add Some Fitness Every Day
Staying stagnant and seated all day does our bodies no favors! Studies show that even simply standing up on an hourly basis can dramatically improve our outlooks and body functionality. Our body’s systems operate more efficiently if we are active and keeping our organs, connective tissues, and fluids moving and flowing throughout the day. Regular exercise – meaning 5 days a week for at least 20-30 minutes – is helpful for maintaining our health and longevity AND pumps helpful, feel-good endorphins into our brains free of charge.
3. Learn A New Skill
Take some of that self-improvement energy you’ve got and channel it into a new hobby. This is the perfect time to indulge your creativity or dust off that old skill you began to learn as a child. Some great examples are artistic endeavors, working on a new language, mastering an instrument, learning new home improvement skills, or gardening.
4. Re-Evaluate Your Social Network
This is applicable to social media of course, but really it applies to all social interactions you have. Essentially, work on nurturing relationships with people who encourage and inspire you. Spend time with people (this means in-person and on their “page”) with people who make you feel good – period. On the flip side, minimize contact and interaction with those who put you down, make you feel inferior, or question your life choices. Spending time weeding out the toxic relationships in your life will be a miraculous gift for yourself.
5. Give Back In A Way That Is Dear To Your Heart
It may sound counterintuitive, but one of the best ways to help yourself is to help others first. Have you ever volunteered at a church or a homeless facility or with your local veteran’s office? What about helping to make community improvements or spending time at a local animal shelter? Think about what things bring you joy, and see if there is a way you can donate your time and experience supporting this cause.
6. Become A Member Of The Gig Economy
Sometimes the difference between stress and contentment is a little extra income. If only we could just get above the waterline a little, life would be easier, right? Consider joining the ranks of thousands of others in this new age of earning additional funds by getting yourself a side hustle. A great example of this is via the delivery market because there are tons of people that want things brought to them. Consider applying for one of the many Amazon jobs in your area to see if it could be a good fit.
One Step At A Time
Do not be overwhelmed by this list or by any of the steps you need to take for some self-improvement in your life. Continue to remind yourself that big changes do not happen overnight, and a person needs to diligently work in order to see tangible results. Keep your eye on the big goals you have, and reward yourself for every stride you take in that direction. You can do it!