During some years, we achieve big things. During other years, it is a series of small things, but nothing so magnificent. Now that 2022 is around the corner, we are less concerned about achievements and more about still being alive. Yes, you are breathing, smiling, walking, and talking. You have battled through two terrible years for humankind with a never before witnessed pandemic, countless deaths and you’re now stepping in 2022 with a new variant of that deathly virus. Things are not looking that great but then again, these are things we cannot control. You and I, cannot avoid social distancing, skip self-isolation and go back to how things were but we can control some things in the year 2022 – such as our health and happiness. There are a series of things collected from the smartest corners of the internet, mixed with the experiences of many, that we can do to shape 2022 to be the best year of our life despite the ongoing coronavirus crisis. And remember, little things are just as magnificent and they go a long way so we shall start from there:

1. Wake up naturally

You might think of it as a strange suggestion. I mean, is it even possible to wake up without an alarm clock? Well, it is. Practice a routine of sleeping on time and waking up at the same hour every day. That’s how your biorhythm should works, with no alarms to jolt you out of your slumber. Wake up naturally and start your day with a positive mood.

Here are a few tips to help you build a better sleep routine:

• Write down how many hours of sleep you get each night and how rested you feel. After a week, you should have a better idea of how you’re doing.
• Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends.
• Reserve the hour before bed as quiet time. Take a bath, read, or do something relaxing. Avoid heavy eating and drinking.
• Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet.
• Invest in some good bedding.
• If you have to take a nap, try to limit it to 20 minutes.

2. Eat breakfast

Most of us are in such a hurry every morning that we forget to eat breakfast, and end up feeling miserable. You may not know it but the answer to most of our problems is a nourishing meal packed with your favorite foods every morning. It will help you look forward to something, and at the same time, give you a boost of energy to go about the day. A good breakfast makes a mighty difference. Click here to have a nutritionist plan a personalized breakfast plan for you.

3. Focus on one task

We function on auto-pilot mode and perform tasks mechanically, often juggling several things at a time. Well, the key is to focus on one task at a time. Multitasking actually affects your focus and causes stress.

4. Take an afternoon nap

Taking an afternoon nap can be extremely helpful in boosting your mood. At the same time, it ensures “improved alertness and performance without interfering with your night-time sleep.” Research also shows that when you do not take a nap in the day, you become sensitive to negative emotions.

5. Spend money on experiences

There’s no denying that it is fun to spend money on buying that latest gadget or that outfit you’ve been eyeing for a long time. But, the amount of satisfaction you get when spending on experiences is completely different. You could also take friends out for a treat. In fact, research shows that spending money on making someone else happy amplifies the feeling of satisfaction.

6. Acknowledge the unhappy moments

A positive attitude is generally a good thing, but bad things happen to everyone. It’s just part of life. If you get some bad news, make a mistake, or just feel like you’re in a funk, don’t try to pretend you’re happy. Acknowledge the feeling of unhappiness, letting yourself experience it for a moment. Then, shift your focus toward what made you feel this way and what it might take to recover. Would a deep breathing exercise help? A long walk outside? Talking it over with someone? Let the moment pass and take care of yourself. Remember, no one’s happy all the time.

7. Face stress head-on

For those stressors you can’t avoid, remind yourself that everyone has stress — there’s no reason to think it’s all on you. And chances are, you’re stronger than you think you are. Instead of letting yourself get overwhelmed, try to tackle the stressor head-on. This might mean initiating an uncomfortable conversation or putting in some extra work, but the sooner you tackle it, the sooner the pit in your stomach will start to shrink.

8. Plan your week

Feel like you’re flailing about? Try sitting down at the end of every week and making a basic list for the following week. Even if you don’t stick to the plan, blocking out time where you can do laundry, go grocery shopping, or tackle projects at work can help to quiet your mind. You can get a fancy planner, but even a sticky note on your computer or a piece of scrap paper in your pocket can do the job. Click here to plan your weekly meals.

9. Consider therapy

We’re certainly happier when we learn how to cope with obstacles. When you’re faced with a problem, think about what got you through something similar in the past. Would it work here? What else can you try? If you feel like you’re hitting a brick wall, consider speaking with a therapist on a weekly basis. You don’t need to have a diagnosed mental health condition or overwhelming crisis to seek therapy. Therapists are trained to help people improve coping skills. Plus, there’s no obligation to continue once you start. Even just a few sessions can help you add some new goodies to your emotional toolbox.

10. Reevaluate your goals

People change, so think about where you’re heading and consider if that’s still where you want to go. There’s no shame in changing your game. Let go of any goals that no longer serve you, even if they sound nice on paper.

11. Other small things to try:

·       Breathe fresh air everyday

·       Use the stairs instead of the elevator

·       Eat a salad

·       Stay OUT of the middle aisles at the store. It’s where the majority of processed food lurks!

·       Drink a glass of water when you wake up.

·       Cook at home more often (instead of eating out).

·       Take a multi-vitamin or supplements you’re lacking.

·       Go on a regular evening walk with your pets or family.

·       Plan your meals a week in advance.

·       Straighten your posture.

·       Limit your news consumption.

·       Have more sex if you’re married. Schedule it if you need to!

·       Ask for help. Often.

·       Watch less tv.

·       Save money regularly with an automatic transfer.

·       Track your finances weekly.

·       Start. Right now. Pick 2-3 habits and just do it.

And you know, we have the nation’s best doctors all in one place so if you feel a little off, just click here and we’ll have your back.