If you are used to the usual approaches to a new year it might be time for a new approach!
Every year I get so excited as the new year comes around. I begin looking for my new calendars, and planners, and I get right to focusing on how the New Year is going to be different. I review my goals from the year I'm departing and I think about how those goals were achieved. I begin to focus on resolving any obstacles from the previous year. And then I ask myself “How am I going to make improvements?”, “What's going to look different?” One thing I've noticed over the years as I take time to reflect is that I hyperfocus on how to change things often externally. Now, don’t get me wrong sometimes I set physical goals such as losing weight or getting physically stronger, but for the most part, it's about how to do better in my career or for others. Now as I get older and hopefully wiser what I want to do more of is be a better lover…of myself. I want to set goals that help me be better to myself and in turn, those things will help me to be better to others, for others, and in my career.
If you are a high-achiever like me you may be looking for a new approach to embracing the “New Year, New You” mantra. Balancing professional success with personal well-being can be a delicate act, but it's crucial for sustaining long-term achievements. In this blog post, we'll explore a variety of holistic approaches to kickstarting your new year with healthy habits, focusing on mental, emotional, and physical wellness.
Tip #1 - Mental wellness MUST be a priority
Mindfulness Meditation
Start your day with mindfulness meditation. A few minutes of focused breathing can set a positive tone for the entire day. Apps like Headspace and Calm offer guided sessions for beginners, making it easy to incorporate mindfulness into your routine.
Gratitude Journaling
Take a moment each day to reflect on things you're grateful for. Maintaining a gratitude journal can shift your mindset towards positivity, fostering a healthier mental state. Consider using this gratitude journal as a helpful resource to begin building gratitude in your daily life.
Prioritize Mental Health
Acknowledge the importance of mental health. Consider seeking counseling if needed. If you are not quite ready for counseling an alternative resource can be self-help books. One example is "The Gifts of Imperfection" by Brené Brown. This compelling read encourages readers to embrace vulnerability and imperfection allowing them to develop a better understanding of themselves.
Tip #2 - Emotional wellness can be a great friend
Set Boundaries
Learn to say no when necessary. Setting boundaries is crucial for preventing burnout. Prioritize tasks and commitments, focusing on what truly aligns with your goals and values.
Nurture Relationships
High achievers often invest heavily in their careers. Balance this by nurturing personal relationships. Spend quality time with family and friends, fostering emotional connections outside of the professional realm. If you are looking to build your connections consider engaging with groups in your community or joining Reclamation Literary Group where women come together for healing and restorative reading.
Self-Reflection Practices
Regularly engage in self-reflection. Journaling or simply taking time for introspection can help you understand your emotions better. "Emotional Agility" by Susan David offers insightful perspectives on navigating the complexities of emotions. Self-reflection is the companion of self-love.
Tip #3 - Physical wellness stimulates balance
Regular Exercise
Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. It doesn't have to be an intense workout—find an activity you enjoy, whether it's yoga, walking, or dancing. "The Joy of Movement" by Kelly McGonigal explores the profound impact of exercise on our well-being.
Nutritious Eating
Fuel your body with nutritious foods. Ensure a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Consider consulting with a nutritionist for personalized advice.
Adequate Rest
Prioritize sleep as an essential component of your overall well-being. Create a bedtime routine, limit screen time before sleep, and aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
Tip #4 - Try to stay away from these things
Self-Care Neglect
Avoid neglecting self-care in the pursuit of success. Taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity for sustained high performance.
Overcommitment
Resist the urge to overcommit. Be realistic about your capabilities and learn to delegate tasks when needed. Overcommitting leads to stress and can compromise your well-being.
The Comparison Trap
Each person's journey is unique. Comparing yourself to others can lead to feelings of inadequacy. Focus on your progress and celebrate your achievements, big or small.
What To Remember
As high-achieving women embark on a new year, prioritizing holistic well-being is key to achieving sustainable success. Incorporating mindfulness, setting emotional boundaries, and embracing a healthy lifestyle can create a foundation for long-term fulfillment and accomplishment. Remember, success is not just about what you achieve externally but also about how you nurture your internal well-being. And, if you find that it's difficult to figure it out alone don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here for you! So, here's to 2024! A new year filled with balance, growth, and well-deserved self-care.
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