With another year behind us and a new one starting, it’s time to think about what we can do to improve our lives. Rather than coming up with grandiose resolutions we won’t commit to, a better alternative is to start small and improve each day by creating positive habits that set us up for long-term success. It only takes a few easy steps to put your best foot forward each day.
Try these tips to implement small, positive changes to your daily life in the coming year:
- Eat a high protein breakfast each morning. Rather than fueling up on carbs which will spike your insulin, then cause you to crash before lunchtime, protein will provide you with the energy you need to survive the day, and it’s much more satiating than carbs. Go to the grocery store and pick up some eggs. You can boil the eggs all at once and have a grab-and-go breakfast each day already prepared for the week. Greek yogurt is another good option. Add fruit, nuts, and oats for an extra boost. If you’re vegan, mixed nuts and cranberries are a good option. Include fruit (not fruit juice), and you’re on your way to a yawn-free day!
- Do a five-minute workout. According to a University of Georgia study, you can expect an increase in your energy level up to 20% and a decrease in fatigue up to 65% by doing a regular, low intensity exercise. Exercise is also a proven technique to improve your mood, alertness, and feelings of well-being. So dance to your favorite song, stretch, or take a short, brisk walk.
- Stay hydrated. When you sleep, your body becomes dehydrated from not receiving any fluids (studies show that dehydration is the number one cause of daytime fatigue), so start each day off by giving your body what it needs to function properly. Drink a glass of water when you wake up, and keep water with you at all times to combat daytime fatigue and improve your productivity on the job. Plus, you’ll feel much better in the process.