Everyone wants to live their best life, but how on earth are you supposed to do that?
There are plenty of self-help books out there full of advice, but a lot of it doesn’t seem particularly practical or actionable, so it’s basically a load of rubbish. While improving your quality of life is a continuous journey, there are certain habits you can adopt that will make you happier, healthier, and generally more fulfilled.
1. Prioritise sleep.
There’s a reason sleep deprivation is used as a form of torture — going without it really messes you up. I firmly believe that good sleep is the foundation of a good life, and aiming for at least 7 hours of shut-eye each night consistently can make a huge difference to your overall wellness. Create a relaxing bedtime routine and make your bedroom a sleep-friendly zone. You’ll be amazed at how much better you feel when you’re well-rested.
2. Move your body regularly.
Exercise doesn’t have to mean gruelling gym sessions (though if you’re up for that, go for it). Find ways to move that you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, walking, or yoga. Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days, and make sure you get your heart pumping during that time. Regular movement boosts your mood, energy, and overall health. We sit FAR too much, and it’s killing us — show your body how grateful you are for all it can do by using it well and regularly.
3. Practise mindfulness.
Source: Unsplash Take a few minutes each day to be fully present, whether through meditation, deep breathing, or simply focusing on your surroundings. Mindfulness can reduce stress and increase your appreciation for the little things in life. Start with just five minutes a day and build from there. It’ll feel weird at first and like it’s not helping at all, but keep at it. I promise it works!
4. Nurture your relationships.
Strong social connections are crucial for happiness, so make time for friends and family, even if it’s just a quick call or text, no matter how busy you are. Be present in your interactions and be curious about the people in your life and what makes them tick. Good relationships provide support, joy, and a sense of belonging.
5. Learn something new.
Keeping your mind active can boost your mood and cognitive function. Consider picking up a new hobby, learning a language, or taking an online course. The process of learning keeps life interesting and gives you a sense of accomplishment. Don’t worry about mastery — enjoy the journey of discovery.
6. Declutter your space.
Source: Unsplash A tidy environment can lead to a clearer mind, so spend some time organising your living space. Get rid of things you don’t need or love. A clutter-free space can reduce stress and make your daily life smoother. Oh, and no need to go crazy — start small — even tidying one drawer can make a difference.
7. Practise gratitude.
Take time each day to appreciate the good things in your life, no matter how small. For instance, write down three things you’re grateful for before bed. It’s quick, simple, and can shift your focus to the positive aspects of your life. Over time, it can massively improve your overall outlook.
8. Limit your screen time.
Yep, you need to put down your phone sometimes. Excessive screen time has been proven to negatively impact your mental health and sleep, so set boundaries for your device use, especially before bedtime. Try a ‘digital sunset’ where you switch off screens an hour before sleep. Use the extra time to read, chat with your friends, partner, or family members, or engage in a relaxing hobby.
9. Try to eat a bit more mindfully.
Pay attention to what and how you eat. Choose nutritious foods that make you feel good, eat slowly, and enjoy your meals without distractions. Doing so can improve your relationship with food and boost your overall health. Remember, it’s about nourishment, not restriction. You’re perfectly fine to get a pizza on a night out or grab a McDonald’s when you’re craving it. It’s all about balance!
10. Spend time in nature.
Regular contact with nature can reduce stress and improve health and wellness. Take a walk in a park, tend to some plants, or simply sit outside for a few minutes each day. Even looking at nature photos can have a positive effect, so make green time a priority in your routine.
11. Practise self-compassion.
Be kind to yourself, and treat yourself with the same understanding and forgiveness you’d offer a good friend. Acknowledge that everyone makes mistakes and has struggles. Self-compassion can boost your resilience and overall happiness. It’s not selfish — it’s necessary for a good life.
12. Set boundaries.
Learn to say no to things that drain your energy or don’t align with your values because that’s exactly what it takes to prioritise your own needs and health. Clear boundaries can improve your relationships and reduce stress. Remember, saying no to some things allows you to say yes to what truly matters.
13. Create a budget.
Financial stress can massively impact your quality of life, but don’t let it. Take control by creating a realistic budget. Track your spending and look for areas where you can save. Having a clear picture of your finances can reduce anxiety and help you plan for the future. Plus, small changes can add up to big improvements over time.
14. Volunteer or help other people.
There’s always someone who’s worse off than you, and giving back to your community can provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Find a cause you care about and donate your time or skills. It doesn’t have to be a huge commitment — even small acts of kindness can make a difference. Helping other people often has the added benefit of boosting your own happiness, so it’s never truly selfless, anyway (and that’s okay!).
15. Embrace imperfection.
Let go of the need for everything to be perfect. Accept that life is messy and imperfect, and that’s okay. Focus on progress, not perfection, in your goals and daily life. Shifting your mindset this way can reduce stress and increase your enjoyment of life. After all, the imperfections often make life interesting and beautiful.
