Positive Habits for 2023

Positive Habits are behavior practices that we engage in regularly and they have a positive impact on our lives. These habits help us to become the best version of ourselves and to achieve our goals. Whether it’s exercising, reading, or meditating, developing positive habits is essential for leading a happy and fulfilled life. Those are the key words. Happy and fulfilled. Two things we are all after.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when developing positive habits is discipline. Some people may say motivation is the most important thing. But motivation fades. Habits are formed through discipline and repetition. It is crucial to be consistent in your efforts. This means setting aside dedicated rhythms for your habits each day or each week and sticking to a schedule.

Another key aspect of developing positive habits is setting realistic goals. I once heard that people overestimate what they can do in a year and underestimate what they can do in 5 years. Life isn’t a race that has to be won in 1 year. It is a journey that needs to be explored and enjoyed. All good things take time. It can be easy to get caught up in the excitement of starting a new habit, but it’s important to be realistic about what you can achieve. Start small and gradually build. For example, if you want to start exercising, you might begin by walking 15 minutes a day and then gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts. 

Here are some examples of positive habits that can help you lead a happier and more fulfilled life.

1. Movement: regular movement has been shown to boost your mood, reduce stress and improve overall health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each day. Yes, walking counts!

2. Reading: reading has many benefits, including improving vocabulary, knowledge and concentration. It can also be a great way to relax and unwind at the end of a long day.
3. Meditate: meditation is an excellent way to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Even just a few minutes of meditation each day can make a big difference. There are helpful apps like headspace and insight timer that can provide daily meditations and breathing exercises. 
4. Practice Gratitude: Take a few minutes each day to reflect on the things you’re grateful for. Write out 3 things a day that you are grateful for. This can help shift your focus from negative thoughts to positive ones. 
5. Keep a journal: Journaling is a great way to process thoughts and emotions, and to track progress on your goals.
6. Get enough sleep each night: Sleep is essential for good health and well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night for longevity and energy. 
7. Mindful eating: We all love food. Some food provides great nutritional value while other food strips away our energy. Let's move away from good food vs bad food and embrace the idea that all food is good in moderation. Being mindful of what you consume, how often, and how much makes the difference. 
8. Celebrate the journey: There is much to be celebrated on your journey and not just your end goal. Take time to celebrate what you have learned along the way. Every milestone is worth celebrating. 

Remember, developing positive habits takes time, discipline, and accountability, but the rewards are worth it. By incorporating these habits into your daily rhythm, you can improve your overall well being and feel more control of your life. Always start small and focus on one thing at a time, and then build upon that. The journey of a 1000 miles begins with a single step, so take the first step today and start developing positive habits that will change your life for the better.