2020 was hard, and it taught us that life is unpredictable. As we look toward an uncertain future, it’s important that we stay strong, positive, and forward thinking during 2021. This year, start practicing these healthy habits to get you into a more positive mindset, healthy body, and happy environment.
Make SMART goals
When we say SMART, we mean Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-Bound goals. One of the downfalls of goals is that they are too vague or general. By making SMART goals, you give yourself a higher chance of achieving them. Instead of saying “lose weight,” create a SMART goal such as “lose 20 pounds by the end of the year through healthy eating and exercise.”
Speak positively about yourself
While deprecating humor might feel like the easy way out, your self confidence and subconscious hears that and can take it to heart. Remind yourself that you, yes you, made it through an exceptionally difficult time period. The words you speak about yourself should reflect this in a positive way. Falling back to negative comments about your body, your parenting skills, and your mental health will not only harm you, but also those around you.
Set healthy boundaries
This year, make sure you are creating and expressing healthy boundaries to those around you and stick to them. These boundaries can be both physical and emotional, and are one of the healthiest ways to give yourself the space and time you need. Sometimes it’s okay to not pick up the phone when your mother-in-law calls or turn down a surprise stay from a visiting friend. By setting boundaries, you are setting your relationships and your health up for success.
Make time for self care
This is such an important part of anyone’s life, but especially for parents. As the caretakers of a family, parents are constantly being asked to put the needs of others before themselves. This can take a physical and mental toll that leads to burnout and sometimes even more serious mental health conditions. Make sure you are taking time to take care of yourself. Self-care doesn’t have to be pedicures or meditation. It can be as simple as taking five minutes of your day to drink that extra glass of water.
Nourish your body daily
There are many ways to nourish your body without having to focus on a specific diet, exercise regime, or sleep schedule. As parents, your body goes through daily stress, especially during the COVID-19 era. Each day, do something beneficial for your body. This includes drinking enough water, eating green vegetables, taking a walk around the block, and stretching. Even just doing one of these a day will help you become healthier.
