Habit 1: Get Moving

As I mentioned earlier, laziness is my middle name. For the past 1.5 years, I contemplated starting a fitness routine, but the timing never felt right—until two weeks ago when I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror. Despite my typical self-obsession, the reflection looking back at me was not one I could admire. That pivotal moment prompted me to ask, “Why haven’t I been working on myself?”

Starting the very next day, I committed to moving my body for 20 minutes each morning, whether through yoga, exercise, or even dancing, depending on my mood. The goal was simple: to enjoy the movement.

In just two weeks, I noticed a significant boost in my morning energy levels, eliminating the need for that hefty cup of coffee to wake me up. Now, I naturally feel vibrant and eager throughout the day, often completing most of my tasks by 6 PM, leaving ample time for relaxation.

Why should you adopt this habit? If you find yourself daydreaming about your ambitions while remaining idle, incorporating daily movement can work wonders for your energy and motivation. As someone who loves food but struggles with physical activity, I can attest that making exercise a priority has been a game-changer.

Habit 2: Keep a Food Journal

You’ve likely heard of gratitude journals or to-do lists, but have you considered a food journal? This is especially useful for individuals like me, who sometimes struggle with food choices.

I used to indulge in junk food throughout the day, all the while believing that my consumption was minimal. You might relate to this misconception as well.

To challenge myself, I began documenting everything I consumed in a day. The results were eye-opening: my diet was filled with chips, burgers, and other unhealthy options. After just ten days, I understood why I felt sluggish and irritable.

“Your diet influences your mood.”

After reviewing my entries, I realized that I didn’t need self-help literature to boost my mental strength; I needed a nutritious diet.

Why should you try this challenge? Regardless of your current eating habits, I urge you to jot down everything you consume for a day. This practice will help you identify your eating patterns and reveal whether you eat out of hunger or simply boredom. Additionally, as you prepare to write down your next snack, an internal voice may surface to guide your choices.

Habit 3: Embrace a Slower Pace

In a world that seems to be moving at breakneck speed, it’s easy to feel left behind. The rise of social media and the pressure to achieve wealth by a young age can be relentless.

I was caught in the same whirlwind, striving for financial success without considering the toll it took on my well-being. This led to a health scare—diagnosed with migraines, I found it challenging to focus on screens for extended periods. During my recovery, I realized the importance of stepping back from the hustle culture and savoring life’s moments.

This doesn’t mean I’ve abandoned my aspirations; rather, I now prioritize ending my workday at 6 PM to dedicate time to meditation, journaling, leisurely walks, reading, and cherishing moments with family. Trust me, I’ve never felt so alive as I do now.

Why should you consider this approach? The reality is that your job can be replaced, but the relationships with your loved ones are irreplaceable. Take time for yourself to savor life through slow and intentional living.