12 Things You Can Do To Be Healthier In The Coming Year

It’s that time of the year again when we look back on what was, and look forward to what we can do better. Before this year comes to a close, it would be helpful to ponder on ways to make yourself healthier and happier in 2021. Here are 12 things you can do—maybe even one per month that you can focus on—in the coming year!

1. Make a list. Whether it’s your annual list of New Year’s Resolutions or just a simple list of things you want to remind yourself to do all year round from 2021 onwards, putting it in writing can actually help.
2. Identify bad habits. Is it an unhealthy liking for junk food? Overspending on toys for your pet? Sleeping too late to binge-watch a series? Admitting these can be painful and cringe-worthy, but acknowledging them can really help you avoid them next time.
3. Pat yourself on the back for small wins. Simultaneous to the item above, celebrating small victories is also healthy. It doesn’t have to be grand gestures, but anything at all that you feel is a personal achievement that does you good. Keep at it if it works!
4. ALWAYS include fruits and vegetables in your grocery list. There’s a good reason why we have been conditioned to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables since we were young: because they’re actually really good for us. Unless you have specific dietary conditions that say otherwise, this is one of the easiest changes you can make to be healthier.
5. Make plans to invest in an insurance plan. In these uncertain times, the right health insurance plan can be your safety net for future health care expenses.
6. Keep moving. Whether it’s something as simple as walking instead of driving or following a hardcore fitness routine, exercise is always good for you.
7. Include some quiet time in your days. In between all the hustle, don’t forget to reserve some time to either meditate, pray, or just sit in silence with your thoughts. This will help you keep grounded and also relax you in between frenetic activities.
8. Learn something new every day. With all the resources available to us now, learning a thing or two each day shouldn’t be hard. Watch a documentary, learn a new word in a different language, whip up a new dish—there are countless ways to do it.
9. Do small gestures for others. Helping others is a good habit to build. It makes us more well-rounded, sympathetic, and kind to others. Kindness also keeps us healthy!
10. Acknowledge your emotions—even when they’re not good ones. Suppressing negative feelings for the sake of staying positive is actually unhealthy. 2021 is all about being real and honest, including to yourself.
11. Support your local community. Buy more local items this year! From produce to personal care, supporting your local community helps everyone.
12. Keep a list of things you’re grateful for. It doesn’t have to be deep and grand; itemizing small things that make you happy will help you get through the tough times.

Let's all look forward and aim to make 2021 healthy, and every day better.

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