The New Year is approaching, which means you might have new resolutions about what you’ll change in your life for 2017. What are your resolutions?  Chances are, they revolve around a few things: health, wealth, and love.

Many people create unrealistic expectations of themselves, becoming discouraged later in the year when they feel incapable of achieving them. Big changes begin with small efforts, and slight adjustments can make a huge impact on your life.

Whether your health goals be physical, mental, or emotional, here are a few tips that can help in attaining positive change in 2017.

Losing Weight

Losing weight is a common New Year’s resolution. If this is on your to-do list, take a step back and reflect on what this means for you.  Depending on your body, it may look different than it would for someone else. Your body may not be designed to look like Victoria Beckham, but you can improve your Beyoncé-esque curves.

Remember that beauty does not rely on a number on a scale, and a healthy weight for you may not be a healthy weight for someone else.  Regardless of your path, seek professional assistance.  Consider going to a dietitian to make sure you eat the proper foods.

If you are physically capable of exercise, also find a form of exercise you enjoy doing—such as CorePower yoga or dancing. There is evidence to suggest that creating this routine will over time actually rewire your brain to enjoy exercise and healthy eating.

Improve Skin

Just like losing weight, healthy skin is achieved by constant routine. The most common skin ailment comes in the form of pimples, while some people complain of blotchy or dull skin.

Other skin conditions like rosacea or psoriasis can exacerbate these issues.  To improve your skin, you must take a look at your lifestyle.  Be sure you are getting enough rest.  Staying out late and drinking a lot of alcohol seems fun in your early twenties, but as you get older it takes a toll on your skin.

Other factors like eating greasy foods high in preservatives and sodium are contributing factors.  Hydration and adequate sleep are vital to your skin and the rest of your body.

If your breakouts are a serious cause of stress and anxiety, and gentle cleansers aren’t clearing up your pimples, you may want to consider an acne treatment product. Companies like BioClarity offer easy skin care regimens that harness the power of natural ingredients; no dried out, flaking skin—and more importantly, no more pimples.

Save More Money

This is not a fun one, but it will definitely be worth it! You may not realize the stress money issues put on your mind, and this type of stress can have some serious consequences when it comes to your physical health. Whether you want to pay off a credit card or save for a car, small efforts can still pay off big.

Start by cleaning out your home.  If you’ve accumulated a lot of stuff—knick-knacks, old baby toys, duplicate wedding gifts you never used—hold a garage sale.  This kills two birds with one stone!  Not only do you get some quick cash, but you rid your home of all of the physical clutter that can be causing mental chaos.

For more advanced financial planning, make the effort to contact a financial advisor or company. It is possible to pay off debt or back taxes, but the best way to approach this is to face it directly.  Avoiding the problem will cause more anxiety and become a detriment to your mental well-being.

Be Happier

Perhaps the above goals don’t pertain to your happiness, or conversely, your personal issues are at the root of why you can’t achieve them. Whichever the case, reflect on what—if anything—is causing you any anxiety, depression, or stress.  Success may depend on making new friends or cutting toxic people out of your life.

There may be unresolved issues in your past, or maybe there is an underlying cause related to your brain or body. Don’t be afraid to reach out; if you feel like you are struggling with depression, find somebody who can help. Just like all of these goals, happiness requires discipline, and discipline begins with a single step.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a happier and healthier 2017.

About the author

Guest Contributor

This article was written by a Healthgist contributor. Please note, this content may include links to products or services for which we are compensated. Want to be a Healthgist contributor? Send your pitch to us at info@healthgist.com

1 Comment

  • Merry Christmas, Drs. Han and Bola! You gals have been an inspiration and such a blessing since starting Healthgist. All the best to you and your families in the new year!

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