Every year some time between opening gifts for Christmas and toasting to the New Year, I look forward to reflecting on the previous year and planning for the next 365 days.

2018 was a challenging year in all the best ways. I learned to trust my instincts, become less afraid to be vulnerable with others, and to put myself out there. I started consistently posting on my blog, selling my Finesse Fitness bottles on Amazon, enhancing my skills as an advertiser, focusing less on others opinions, and I moved in with the love of my life.

Too many people view the New Year as the “best year of their life is coming.” Sorry to break it to you, but it’s not. Although, 2019 can be a much better year than 2018 if you actively make changes in your daily routine to accomplish your resolutions.

Studies show that it takes the average person 66 days of daily practice to build a habit. However, even if you’re the slowest learner on Earth, studies show that after 254 days of daily practice, you can build a habit that sticks!

Before I dive into the 9 habits, I’ve provided you with three important definitions:

  1. Resolution – a firm decision to do or not do something
  2. Goal – the object of a person’s ambition or effort; an aim or desired result
  3. Habit – a settled tendency or usual manner of behavior

It’s important to note that you cannot achieve a desired resolution or goal without a change in your habits. Your habits are the roots to your growth!

Now here’s 9 habits you should adopt in 2019:

1. Declutter

“I don’t have enough time.”—The biggest lie I tell myself.

Not having enough time is an excuse. If you prioritize your time, you’ll make enough time to do anything. Keep your work and home environment organized. Get rid of papers, clothes and miscellaneous items you don’t need. You’ll stress out less and things will appear more seamlessly. Starting small has worked very well for me. Instead of saying I’ll clean up on Saturday when I have more free time, I decide to spend 15 minutes cleaning a specific area in that moment. Instantly providing me with clarity and peace of mind.

2. Do something that challenges you daily

Start saying “yes” when you really want to say “no.” Start singing and dancing on the street if you’d like. Talk to a stranger. Push yourself to finish an assignment in 2 hours that would usually take you 4. Sky dive. Start the business you’ve been thinking about but too scared to execute. Ask the person you’re interested in out. Do more things that challenge you to step out your comfort zone.

3. Start being more responsible for your actions

Be honest with yourself. One thing I’ve been working on is stopping myself from wallowing in my self pity. There will always be someone waiting for you to stumble. Self doubt will always arise because our brains are wired to protect us. It is your job to prove yourself right. Increase the outputs that matter, stop listening to the naysayers and PLEASE stop telling yourself that you can’t do something. Instead JUST DO IT.

4. Meet new people

There’s so much knowledge in the world! And there are people out there willing to share it with you, if you’re networking with the right people. Just by hanging around more confident people, you will become more confident in your abilities. My boyfriend and I’s goal for next year is to go to one networking event and meet new people every month.

5. Reframe your thoughts

Reframing is when you consciously decide to change how you look at a situation in order to dictate how you feel. Instead of perceiving a failed product in your business as a loss, view it as market research and an opportunity to find a new more profitable product to sell.

6. Make a budget

I know exactly where my money goes because I keep track of it in my planner. I have an ambitious six-figure goal I’m aiming to make next year and with the correct habits, I’ll accomplish it. People who are successful and financially free know their outgoings and in-goings. They plan and budget their entire lives.

7. Self reflect

Make time to journal. One of my favorite things to do when I feel down is to read old journal entries. Having a point of reference helps you put things into perspective. You then realize how much you’ve actually accomplished.

8. Get moving

Physical activity helps us lower stress, improves our mental health, and makes us feel overall feel better about ourself. Exercising releases dopamine into your brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter in the brain that is necessary for feeling happiness and pleasure. Not only will exercise make you feel happier, but it also will give you a boost of energy.

The gym isn’t for everyone and that’s okay. If you’re not a gym person, try a class, watch YouTube or IG workout videos, or sign up for an app like SWEAT.

9. Laugh

Please don’t work, work, work with no play or breaks. Life isn’t supposed to be so serious. When you laugh your brain releases endorphins, your stress hormones are induced, and the oxygen supply to your brain increases making you feel REALLY good.

Cheers to a fabulous 2019!


Facebook


Instagram


Pinterest