The time of New Year’s Resolutions is nearly upon us. Resolutions are often made but rarely kept, usually because there is no series of action steps in place to achieve them. More effective than resolutions are repeatable processes. Below are some of my favorites for creating a better you and a thus a better year.
1. Win your morning. A chaotic morning can lead to a disjointed day. To avoid this, start the day in control. Wake up at least 30 minutes earlier than normal, don’t use a snooze button and make your bed before leaving home. I’ve heard this recommended by many successful people and have found it effective myself.
2. Get started. People often waste days, weeks, months or even years waiting to begin something they know they should be doing. Ultimately this leads to wasted time, stress and unhappiness. Avoid “paralysis by analysis”, get started and you’ll begin seeing results.
3. Prioritize. The achievement of your goals is what ultimately matters, not being “busy.” Focus on the most vital tasks and activities before worrying about smaller, less important things. This will keep you focused, reduce stress and lead to greater accomplishments.
4. Try a new approach. Desiring a new outcome while utilizing methods that have been proven ineffective never works. Instead, alter your approach and habits. As you do so you will receive feedback that can be used to make better decisions and create more efficient processes going forward.
5. Feed your mind. Much like your body requires physical exertion; your mind likewise needs stimulation. Unlike the body however it is often neglected. Meditation, spending time around positive people, reading and learning new things are all examples of ways to stimulate your mind.
6. Spend more on experiences than “stuff.” A person only needs so many things. Usually the more we acquire the less we care about what we have. However, experiences stay with us and can change us for the better. Whenever possible put your money toward experiences.
7. Embrace discomfort. Whether physically or mentally, no one likes being uncomfortable and yet that is often where the most growth and success comes from. Personally I grew the most after a divorce and starting over on my own. Physically I grow the most after races where I’ve had to battle through pain, elements, hypothermia other trying conditions. If you can embrace discomfort you’ll find that things you once saw as difficult or impossible no longer are.
8. Move your body more. I believe everyone should be active in some fashion each day. Regardless of schedule, we can all commit at least 5-10 minutes to some form of exercise or physical activity. If you don’t want to go to a gym then find something to do in your home or outdoors. I have days that I perform strenuous gym workouts or runs but on days that I don’t I often hike with my family or do pushups and burpees for 10 minutes at home.
Dr. Kenney has won multiple awards for “Best Chiropractor” and specializes in helping patients achieve their goals of better health and pain relief. For more information please visit www.NewBodyChiro.com, find us on Facebook (New Body Chiropractic & Wellness Center) or call (303) 347-9906.