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You probably have some bad habits that you want to change. However, there are those habitual behaviors which are also extremely positive in nature. Accordingly, there are probably some areas in your life where you would like to see better results. Since 21st-century research shows that as much as 45% of human behavior is habitual, it makes sense to establish as many good habits in your life as possible.
Here are 5 simple habits which can lead to improvements and achievement in several areas of your life.
1 – Start Your Day Earlier
Significant research shows the benefits of rising early.
- Benjamin Franklin knew this when he said: “Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise”.
Your brain and body become healthier and stronger, goal achievement and productivity are enhanced, and business success is more likely. Get to bed earlier, get plenty of rest (more than you think you need), and start your day earlier for better life results, both physical and mental.
For tips on making your mornings run better, read my article, 10 Ways to Rock Your Morning Routine.
2 – Drink More Water
While the old “8 glasses of 8 ounces of water” tradition hasn’t been proven beneficial, one thing is certain. Many people these days do not get enough water into their bodies. This means eating more water-filled food and drinking water throughout the day. Just listen to your body. When you are hungry, which is often mistaken for thirst, drink some water first.
3 – Establish an Exercise Routine, and Stick to It
Exercising just 3 days a week, for 20 to 30 minutes, can have life-changing results. Exercise has been linked to mental and physical health and well-being. If this means simply taking a walk or a jog, get up and get moving, and do it regularly. More is not better. Cortisol can rise and adrenal fatigue can set in if you overdo it. Make sure you take one day a week completely off to allow your body to repair itself.
4 – Start Cooking Your Own Meals
Recent research shows that how fit you are mentally and physically is directly related to the types of food you eat. This means less restaurant and “to go” foods, and preparing healthier meals at home. Since as much as 80% of your health and well-being is tied to nutrition, start cooking more of your own meals, and eat out less often. Try to use whole foods, incorporate as much color as possible, and seek out healthy versions of your favorite comfort foods.
5 – Establish Keystone Habits
Some habits can have a much greater impact than others. They seem innocent enough but can lead to powerful transformations in ways you may not realize. Making your bed each morning doesn’t seem like much of a big deal. However, research shows this simple behavior gets your entire day started in a more productive manner. The same thing happens when you establish exercise, good nutrition or any other simple, daily action as a habit that becomes the key to bigger and better achievements.
What good habits do you incorporate into your day? What are your goals this year? Share them in the comments below!
