Set goals you’re likely to stick to in 2018
It’s that time of year when we start making promises to ourselves – join the gym, see friends more, lose weight. And while we all have the best intentions, many of these resolutions don’t last beyond January.
This is usually because we set unrealistic goals that we simply can’t stick to – or enjoy.
So this year, why not embrace some of these better habits that can help you feel and look your best way beyond 2018.
Make fitness fun
These days fitness is less about being slimmer or stronger and more about finding the balance that works for you and having fun with it. Pick a class you’ll enjoy, or an activity to do with friends.
Try not to get stuck in a rut doing the same exercise which can quickly get boring. Mix it up; swap that gym session for a salsa class, or take a different route on your restorative morning run.
Get more sleep
Lack of sleep can cause serious health problems, with studies linking it to heart disease, heart attacks, diabetes and obesity. Aside from the impact on your health, making sure you’re getting enough shut-eye can help you reach your other goals – whether it’s eating better or having the energy to exercise more.
The National Sleep Foundation recommends having a regular nightly routine so that the body knows it’s bedtime. Also, limit caffeine later in the day and try taking a warm bath or reading a book to help you unwind before sleep.
Go meat free
Instead of making radical changes to your diet, how about making one positive change a week? Meat Free Mondays are a way of upping your intake of nourishing and mood-boosting vegetables, while also helping to slow Climate Change and preserve precious natural resources.
There are lots of inspiring recipes on the site to get you started, with some from famous faces like Emma Thompson’s Butternut Squash, Chickpea and Spinach curry.
Clear your mind
A bit of stillness and a break from today’s hectic world is always welcome.
Meditation has so many benefits for our bodies and mind, from promoting better sleep, to combating stress and lifting our mood.
It can be as simple as taking a few minutes to clear your mind at the start or the end of the day. Or being more mindful of your thoughts and feelings during daily activities, whether you’re walking, cooking or cleaning.
Clean up your beauty products
While you’re establishing good habits, turn your attention to your bathroom cabinet. Stripping back your products to a few tried and tested staples for your skin type can help keep your skin calm, balanced and hydrated.
It’s also good to check the sell-by-dates; natural beauty products have less synthetic preservatives and tend to have shorter shelf lives. After their best-by-date, the ingredients won’t be working to their best.
What are your goals? We’d love to hear them.
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