Earlier this week, I went to the gym and, naturally, it was more packed than ever given the new year and its subsequent resolutions. Although it’s great to make these goals, we can often get caught up in our busy lives and forget them. Despite how simple some goals may seem, making them a habit in your life can be difficult. After reflecting upon this, I’ve compiled a list of 4 common resolutions and the keys to achieving them.
Creating a Bedtime Routine
Research shows that going to bed at the same time every night can improve our bodily functions and cycles. Benefits such as stronger immunity and better digestion are just some of the things that can be improved by having a consistent sleep schedule. Therefore, having a bedtime routine makes it all the more important in maintaining your sleep schedule. Getting into a routine of checking off a list, reading, or meditating in preparation for sleep can help in going to bed at the same time.
To get ready for bed, I always start by looking at my weekly schedule, checking off what I’ve done that day, and looking at what I have in store for the next day. Next, I make a warm tea and get into bed to unwind. Once I’m feeling a bit sleepy I brush my teeth, do some skincare, and then finally go to bed. Having this routine helps me estimate the time it will take to get to sleep and when to start getting ready. Becoming accustomed to a regimen can be the key to fixing your sleep schedule and get you into the cycle of going to bed on time.
Reading more
Not only is reading an important skill to exercise but also one the best forms of entertainment. Admittedly, I love to watch TikTok when I’m bored, but after an hour of sitting in bed scrolling it just makes me feel sluggish. However, after reading I don’t feel lethargic or that I haven’t been productive. While you’re reading, your brain is having a great workout, you learn new things without even realizing it, and you can properly relax. Some of the best stories have come from books which can be even more entertaining than TV or TikTok.
Nonetheless, I acknowledge that getting yourself to focus on a book can be difficult. I have struggled with this myself, but one thing that I believe can help to develop this habit is creating a reading space and time. For me, that looks like getting cozy in my bed after coming home from classes or before bedtime. Establishing a designated time and place to read can help get you into the groove of reading, and once you’re hooked, reading will become a fun everyday activity.
Exercise (which doesn’t only mean going to the gym)
One of the most common new year resolutions is to become more fit or to exercise more, however, it can be really hard to see this through as gym motivation can die out quickly. Sometimes we forget that exercise doesn’t have to be confined to the gym. Activities like hiking, cycling, swimming, rock climbing or yoga can be a fun way to get some exercise in without going to the gym. Personally, I love to play badminton which is a great way to get moving that doesn’t involve a treadmill and weights. Exercise isn’t only about physical health but also mental. Getting to play badminton with my friends and family helps me to spend quality time with my loved ones and unwind.
The key to getting into the habit of exercising—whether that is going to the gym or another activity—and staying on track is making the commitment. Signing up for lessons or recreational games of whatever activity you choose to do is a commitment you have to show up for. For example, having a team of other players relying on you to show up or having paid for lessons makes you inclined to participate and holds you accountable.
Drinking more water
Staying hydrated is hard. According to Harvard, women ages 19 and over are supposed to be getting 72oz of water per day. Needless to say, I am not even close to that number. Having a goal like this is a simple thing to implement in your life to improve your health, so why is it so hard to do? Personally, I enjoy flavour in my drinks, whether that’s juice or something like bubble tea, I always feel the need for something extra. One thing that lots of people have recommended to me is drinking herbal teas (iced or hot) to make things a little bit more interesting. Another form of water that I have grown to enjoy recently is flavoured carbonated water like Bubbly or Perrier. Getting creative with your goals can help you enjoy the experience a bit more. Whether that’s finding a fun water bottle or drinking herbal tea, making this a more enjoyable part of your day could be the key to becoming more hydrated!
Although some goals may seem easy, habits can be difficult to implement, so don’t be too hard on yourself and be proud of your milestones! Whether you have made it a week of going to bed at the same time or gotten into a new sport, these small victories are what will ultimately inspire you to get to the end. So give these challenges a try and make 2024 your year!