
This can often seem overwhelming, as we see the big picture and don't know how we are going to start the process. Focusing so far ahead may seem like a really slow process too, making it easier to justify giving up, as the changes we do make seem so small and irrelevant against the big picture.
We live in a world where we are used to getting instant results, from taking a photo, to the convenience of shopping on line. If we want something, we want it now, and goals set in the future are just too far away!
So how can we make today count? Here are some easy ways to improve your life today, making achieving those goals seem like a smoother process:
1) Wake up early - for all who say they don't have the time or energy for the little things that need doing, waking up earlier is a great way to get the things done that you have been putting off and feeling guilty about. This is also a great time to exercise (see point 2) as you will have even more energy for that run. Whatever you feel you need to do with those extra minutes in the morning, you will find that adding this to your routine will give you a sense of pride in yourself, which will give your self-esteem a big boost! Note - if you find getting up early difficult, you can go to bed an hour earlier. Are you really being constructive, when you are tired and working late at night?
2) Exercise - once it is part of your routine you will find it a little addictive! Exercising for 20 minutes a day is a big stress-buster and helps you look and feel great. If you are not sure what exercises are best for you, seek advice, but start today and get walking! While you're there, take a moment to smell the roses, look at the sky and congratulate yourself for getting out there.
3) Eat well - as my mum always told me, 'breakfast is the most important meal of the day', and a healthy one is important as it will give you the focus and energy you need to continue your day. If you do not place importance on your own health, what are you telling yourself?
4) Be positive - notice what your first thought of the morning is. Is it something like 'oh great, I have to get up, and it's raining...' or is it more like 'yey, another day, what can I do today to make it even more successful?' What you focus on is usually what you get, so training your brain to notice all the positives is a really important part of being the change that you want to achieve. A great way to do this is to keep a gratitude journal; every evening you can write in it what you have seen, done or been that you are grateful for....eventually it will just be part of your daily life to see everything in the positive, and being in this state is much more resourceful!
5) Turn off the TV - OK, so sometimes it's nice to chill out and watch a movie, but how much of your life is viewed through a screen? Mobiles, computers, and TV's are all putting us in a trance-like state and allowing us to forget how to be the best we can be. Enjoy your relationships, get outside, make new friends, learn something new, travel .... your life is short!
