Cierra Lemott 
Every new year, we always place unrealistic expectations on ourselves. From dieting to restricted spending, we often throw ourselves into these hard-to-immediately-achieve goals. Instead of coming up with resolutions you’re almost guaranteed to break before the year ends, let’s focus on tangible goals that make a big difference in the new year.
*Establish A Morning & Night Routine
Having routines in place reduces stress resulting in improved mental health. Knowing exactly what you have to accomplish and when you need to do so is important to getting things done and prioritizing your responsibilities. Starting your day on the right foot encourages a better day overall. Ending your day on the right foot encourages a good night’s rest which sets you up to have a great day.
*Prioritize Getting A Good Night’s Sleep
Chances are you aren’t letting your phone get too low on battery so you shouldn’t be allowing yourself to either. Getting a good night’s sleep is important to your brain’s health and overall body functions.
*Less Complaining, More Gratitude
All things in life aren’t great but they aren’t all terrible either. To live a more enjoyable life, having gratitude is the way to go. Taking a moment to look at the positive things in your life and not sulking in the negative will allow you to be happier.
*Read More
There’s nothing like a good book. Not only is it entertaining, but it’s also exercise for your mind. Reading builds your vocabulary and reduces stress. It’s a great activity to substitute for scrolling on your phone as well.
*Pick Up A Hobby, Old Or New
It’s essential to have a positive outlet and release. There’s more to life than working and taking care of responsibilities. Having hobbies improves your mental health and reduces stress while building confidence.
*Incorporate Exercise Into Your Routine
Exercise helps not only your physical health but your mental health as well. Movement of the body helps you to stay active and in shape while reducing the chance of having various diseases. On top of all that, it provides an energy boost as well.
*Prioritize Self-care (Inside and Out)
It’s difficult to be productive or happy without prioritizing self-care on the inside and out. Things like eating healthy, exercising and increasing your water intake help from the inside and reflect on the outside.
Remember to put yourself and your needs first this year and all the years forthcoming. Starting small can lead to big changes that will result in improvement over time. Remember to start small and work your way to the next level one step at a time.
By Cierra Lemott, Columbia College Chicago Alumni
Instagram: @cece.kodak / @kodakscamera
X: @LemottCierra
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