Feeling like you’re succumbing to last year’s bad habits? Don’t fret! Although January has come to an end, you can still salvage your year by creating healthy, sustainable habits that will follow you for years to come. Here’s how I plan to take charge and make 2023 my year.
Minimalize my life
I’ve collected way too many things from PR, thrifting, moving, and more. I found that this extra clutter has been a huge stressor in my life. I plan to sell my wardrobe on Depop and develop a neutral, capsule wardrobe with items I already own. It’s easier to invest in unique, sustainable pieces rather than having a bunch of cute clothes that fill up space. Saves money on laundry too!
I will also limit my spending and work towards healthier habits to prevent clutter in the future. For example, I will order online instead of browsing through stores, which might tempt me to pick up things I don’t need (I’m looking at you Target $5 spot!)
Study Every Day
Let’s leave procrastination in 2022. It’s easier to study for 20 minutes a day rather than 7 hours before the big exam. I get good grades in university, but the stress from putting things off to the last minute makes my head spin!
I took a cognitive psychology class last year and learned a bunch of habits that helped me study on a regular basis. I also brought an iPad which has been super helpful! My notes are online, and I can project them onto larger screens at my local library, which helps with memorization.
Skincare
I ruined my skin last year using WAY too much BHA. I found that a diet full of whole foods, limiting my dairy consumption, and drinking 3 liters of water per day has repaired my skin. A collagen-rich diet will help with this as well.
Instead of buying trendy skincare products, I simplified my skin routine to 3-4 products that I use on a daily basis.
Morning
- Cleanser – clean skin and prevent breakouts
- Micellar water/toner – remove excess dirt and oils
- Vitamin C – brightens tones and aids with acne scars
- SPF Moisturizer – prevents wrinkles and protects from harmful UV rays
Evening
- Cleanser
- Micellar water
- Nighttime moisturizer
- (optional) lip mask
Eating healthy
I was performing at my best when I cut out all processed food last year, meaning no fast food or any overly processed food (think sugary cereals, chips, frozen microwave meals). I have a hormone disorder and I found this helped astronomically! I also felt happier and had more energy.
Cutting out processed foods also meant replacing diet sodas with kombuchas or gut healthy low sugar drinks. Just because it’s low-calorie does NOT mean it’s good for you! Here are some of my staple grocery store items.
- Chicken and eggs
- Frozen vegetables
- Greek yogurt
- Almond milk
- Berries
- Sourdough
- Almond Butter
- Tofu
Self-Care Every Day
It’s like I’ll never learn. I love to work hard but I always forget to take care of myself! This never affects the quality of my work but I always end up grumpy and burnt out at the end of the semester. To combat this, I put slots in my calendar to practice self-care every day so it can become a daily habit.
Mindfulness is a good way to tune in with your body and is extremely helpful for your mental well-being, especially when taking a vigorous course load.
Ways I Practice Self-Care:
- Meditation
- Bubble Baths
- Painting
- Playing Games
- Going on Walks
- Grounding
- Listening to Music
Daily Exercise
Moving your body every day is a great way to stay healthy. It also helps with concentration! I go to pilates 3x a week. I also go on long daily walks and it has been extremely beneficial to my health. My goal this year is to reduce body fat and lose weight! Im lucky my campus has nutritionists and coaches that can help me achieve my goal in a healthy manner
Organization
I want to become more organized this year! Decluttering with help but here’s what I’ve done so far
- Sync my google calendar with my digital watch
- Plan every aspect of my day, including classes, breaks, and meals,
- Plan out my week every Sunday with a digital to-do list
- Utilizing notion
- Physical planners to write down any notes if I don’t have access to my phone or iPad
Overall, my goal is to live a productive, organized, and healthy life. With these steps, I hope to improve my physical and mental health. I included a self-care list below so you can start living your best life!
