We all make resolutions in the New Year. Typically they are all about self-improvement, things about ourselves we wish to change. Whether you want to start exercising daily, start eating a healthier diet, spend more time with family, or start a creative project you’ve been putting off, they all have one thing in common. You! The first step towards becoming the best version of you is putting yourself in the right mindset to do so.
Step 1: Get focused!
We all have moments when our clarity becomes fuzzy. We have so much we want to do that we don’t even know where to begin to accomplish our goals. Part of being focused is about understanding yourself and your needs; one of the best ways to discover that about yourself is to simply spend time with yourself. Let’s be clear, self-care is not selfish. By doing things you enjoy that give you peace, you are opening yourself up to honest thinking and a clearer mind. Self-care can mean many things to many people. Sometimes it is as simple as getting the sleep that you need, and sometimes it means indulging in things that bring you extra comfort like a bubble bath.
Baths cleanse more than just your body, they are cleansing for your mind as well. It’s an inexpensive way to treat yourself and to create an environment for meditation. Try dropping a bath bomb into your tub to soften your skin, and for aroma therapy. Light some candles, put on some soothing music, make a cup of tea, and make it a full sensory, calming experience.
Step 2: Create your sanctuary!
The outside world can be a very taxing experience. Traffic, a hard work day, and many more things can make your day less than pleasant. It is important that when you come home you can leave all that at the door and relax; your home should be your sanctuary. One of our favorite ways to create a peaceful environment is to utilize essential oils. Dropping some essential oils in a diffuser allows you to customize your environment to be exactly what you need. Try something citrusy for energy, eucalyptus to help with congestion, or lavender for better sleep or to simply relax. You’ll be amazed at what these can do for your mood, and can make your daily tasks seem more pleasant.
Another way to help you piece together your ultimate getaway is to replace standard items with a little luxury. Like replacing your generic hand soaps by your sink with the good stuff, getting rugs that are soft on your feet, or putting up art you love. These are all comforting ways to help make your house a home.
Step 3: Use your new clarity, and go get em!
Taking some of these steps towards giving yourself a clearer head will help you achieve your goals for this new, bright year. Make a list of goals you have, and then create ways to make them tangible, obtainable, and positive. For instance, instead of saying “I want to be a size 0 in 2018,” try saying instead, “I want to be my healthiest self, whatever size that may be. So I will pay attention to eating less processed foods and find an exercise I enjoy doing.” Or instead of writing, “I want to find a way to help my community,” you could resolve to shop at small businesses when possible where your dollars are supporting family owned companies. Breaking down your resolutions into smaller steps is one of the best ways you can create a path for successfully becoming your best you!