In today’s modern, high-tech, ultra-convenient society, it’s far too easy to embrace unhealthy, unproductive habits that weigh us down and ultimately make us unhappy. Many of us eat too much fast food, don’t get enough sleep, and pride ourselves on how busy we are (side note - that’s not a good thing). And while change isn’t always easy, it’s often worth it - especially once you begin to reap the rewards brought on by better habits.
If you’re looking for some steps you can take to live a healthier, happier life, consider implementing some - or all - of these lifestyle changes:
* This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my Disclosure Policy for more details.
1 - Start your day screen-free. Checking your phone first thing in the morning is a terrible way to start your day. Instead of diving into social media and work emails, take some time to get yourself into the right mindset.
2 - Exercise. Exercise is a critical component to maintaining good health, and it’s a great way to boost your mood. If you don’t already exercise regularly, find something you love to do that gets you moving and make it a habit.
3 - Laugh more often. They say laughter is the best medicine. While it won’t necessarily cure what ails you, it’ll improve your mood, which can have a tremendous impact on your overall wellbeing.
4 - Make sleep a priority. Your mind and body can’t perform to their full potential if you’re running low on fuel. Set a regular bedtime for yourself and prioritize getting enough shut-eye each night to feel great. If you wear lash extensions, make sure to get one of these amazing eye masks to block out the light at home or when traveling.
5 - Eat the right food. Maintaining a healthy diet is critically important for your health. Focus on eating a balanced diet consisting of natural, healthy foods and save overly-processed treats, like sodas and sweets, for special occasions.
6 - Eliminate distracted eating. When you eat, don’t allow yourself to have any distractions. Put your phone away and turn off the television. Mindless eating is a quick way to overindulge. I've been doing this for the past year and it's really made a difference! I'm now more "present" with my husband during dinner and also aware of when I'm really full.
7 - Drink more water. Staying hydrated is hugely important. Invest in a large water bottle to carry along and set reminders to drink, if necessary, to ensure you get the fluids you need. This hot pink and this pastel pink are my favorite to keep my water cold all day long!
8 - Drink less alcohol. You don’t need me to tell you about all of the negative effects alcohol has on your body and, when abused, your mind. Find other ways to enjoy yourself - you’ll thank yourself later.
10 - Stand as often as you can. See if you can swap your desk at work for a sit-to-stand version. You’ll burn more calories, feel more awake, and combat illness and disease brought on by living a sedentary lifestyle.
11 - Be positive. Your mindset has a direct and lasting impact on your mood, so it’s in your best interest to encourage your own positive thinking.
12 - Read books. Reading can be a great way to gather information and gain new perspectives on the world around you, which is never a bad thing. These are the ones on my current read list.
13 - Be tidy. Living in a cluttered space can have a negative impact on your mental state, whether you realize it or not. Becoming neater is a tough lifestyle change for many to make, but it can have a dramatic impact on your happiness. Does it spark joy?
14 - Connect with nature. Spending time outside can boost your mood, reduce your stress levels, improve your sleep, and improve your ability to focus. Make it a habit to get outdoors on a regular basis and you’ll be surprised how much better you feel.
17 - Start to meditate. Want to focus better, stress less, and enjoy a host of other benefits to your physical and mental health? Meditation can make it happen. If you aren’t sure where to start, find an app to take you through a guided meditation. My favorite one so far has been Headspace. If you have any other recommendations, please do let me know!
18 - Keep a journal. There’s something freeing about getting your thoughts out of your mind and onto paper. Whether you use your journal to document your life or channel your thoughts, your mental health will benefit from the exercise. Need some inspo? I really like this one that comes with prompts so you don't have an excuse for not knowing what to write about! I also love this one and this one from the 52 Lists Project. Try to wake up 15 minutes earlier everyday so you can start your day off right by drinking some tea and writing down what is on your mind! I swear you'll thank me later 🙂
19 - Stay on top of your appointments. If you’re the type who skips your annual doctor’s exam or dentist’s visit, make it a priority to schedule those ASAP. Receiving preventative care can be an incredibly simple - but impactful - lifestyle change to make.
20 - Give yourself a break. If you’re constantly beating yourself up over the mistakes you’ve made - big or small - try to shift your thoughts elsewhere. Learn how to forgive yourself and move on.
By making small but impactful changes to the way you live your life, you’ll quickly find yourself a happier and healthier person. Which lifestyle change would benefit you the most? Leave a comment below and let me know!
Great ideas!! I found out that exercise does make me happy!! I wasn’t so much into working out a couple of years ago. Now I feel energized and it helps me to release stress.
Xo
Candace
http://www.thebeautybeau.com
Author
That’s amazing, Candace! I’m finally back on track with my workouts so hopefully can say the same soon!
I love these lifestyle change ideas, and absolutely love the idea of starting the day screen free!
Kileen
cute & little
Author
Thanks so much for reading, Kileen! It definitely takes a lot of willpower in the morning but we can do it!
I have been working really hard on being healthier during my pregnancy and can’t wait to continue once baby is born!
Author
And I’ve loved following your journey, Taylor! I’m so excited for you!
Love these tips and the beautiful photos! 🙂
Author
Thanks so much, Brie! Glad you liked it!
These are amazing tips babe! I need to start my day off of my phone.
Author
It’s so hard but it definitely has an effect on our productivity and mindset!
It’s amazing how the food you eat has such an affect on your mood, body and how you sleep! Love your tips!
Author
It is, isn’t it? Thanks so much for reading, Kenzi!
I always appreciate a blog post that’s full of positivity and overall, good vibes. Keep doing you babe! 🙂
Wow, so many great takeaways! I’m guilty of not doing too many of these. Saving this list for sure, thanks for sharing!
These are fabulous! Love these hacks girl!