When asked, most of us would probably reply that we’d like to make this year better than last. In fact, I don’t think I’ve ever questioned someone about their hopes only to hear them respond they’re longing for a future that pales in comparison or a time period of their life that totally stinks.
Whether it’s our finances, fitness or relationships — better years are built through better days. In fact, what we do daily is what we become. However the sad statistic is, 80% of us will give up on the resolutions or positive life habits we established on Jan. 1 by February. I’ve often wondered if there was a connection between this statistic and Valentine’s Day candy, but that’s another exploration for another day. Other experts target Jan. 19 as “Quitters Day.” So in just over two weeks, all of our grand intentions fade away.
Those are bleak numbers for hopeful believers in change. Why even begin if you’re destined to fail? Rather than focusing on potential failures or getting caught up maintaining success for the entire year, it’s smarter to zero in on those daily habits that make us who we are. If you choose to return to these mundane tasks each day in the new year, you’ll be surprised at the difference it makes in a week, a month and a year.
Balance the checkbook
If you’re doing regular check-ins with your checking account, the task should only occupy five minutes or less of your day. However, if you allow expenses to go unreconciled, it could be a mess you’re digging out of for weeks. This year, commit to spending time daily keeping accounts. You don’t need a fancy spreadsheet or a complicated financial plan. You can find a simple free printable spending log online (there’s one on Queenoffree.net). Or you can use a piece of software or an app. Regularly spending time on tracking your income and cash outflow helps you target where you improve and insures you won’t miss due dates, too.
Set a small fitness goal
Look, not everyone is cut out to be a marathon runner. If you are, we applaud your efforts. If you’re not, it doesn’t mean you don’t need to move. Everyone needs to exercise in some fashion every day. It could be as simple as taking a walk around the block — or the mall during cold weather. Maybe you have a fitness watch that tracks your steps.
Try setting a goal to reach each day. It might be as easy as doing 10 push-ups every day. You don’t have to bite off more than you can chew or become a bodybuilder, though kudos to you if you do! You simply need to move. The effects on your ability to breathe, sleep, relax and work more effectively will increase as you steadily develop your daily habit.
Turn off the screens
In my current seat, I can see four separate screens as I write this sentence. Two are actively engaged and two are powered down for the moment. I’d hazard a guess you currently have a device within your reach right now, too. We never seem to be separated for too long from technology. But the constant scrolling and viewing weighs heavily on both our bodies and our souls.
Set a daily goal to turn off all screens at least 30 minutes before bedtime. If at all possible, charge your cell phone in a room other than your bedroom, too. We all need to unplug daily. Don’t trust yourself to make the wise choice? You can set your phones app limits to lock you out at a set time every evening. Give your body the opportunity to truly rest. Power down early.
Eat a vegetable
If my kids complain of not feeling well, they know the first question I’m going to ask: “When was the last time you ate a fruit or vegetable?” The majority of us could probably use some improvement in this daily habit. A complete overhaul of your entire diet might not be the best bet for long term change — unless your doctor says it’s necessary. Instead, focus on building the small habit of eating at least one fruit or vegetable per day. P.S. french fries don’t count.
Count your blessings
The daily practice of gratitude directs your eyes on what you have instead of what you want. It calms the voices of comparison inside of your head. It might even open your eyes for the potential to be more generous to others. Whether you recount your thankful things in a moment of prayer or by writing them down, spend a few short minutes this year developing the habit of being grateful. This small and easy routine has the potential to greatly impact your well being for years to come.
Change often seems dramatic, occurring all at once. But true transformation happens in small moments over time. Instead of looking to create giant waves in the new year, focus in on those micro habits to daily reshape your life. When the ball drops in 2021, you’ll be glad that you did.
