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5 New Years resolutions that are actually useful

It’s the period between Christmas and New Year. No one knows what day of the week it is, everyone’s full of stuffing and in the distance you can still hear someone singing Fairytale of New York. In the midst of this weird stretch of time, it’s natural we start thinking of New Years Resolutions – here’s some that are actually useful.

1. Get Organised

For me, this means cleaning my space, keeping a journal and planning a rough schedule for how I want my days and weeks to look, but really it means doing whatever makes you feel organised. It’s definitely a cliche to say that a new year is a chance for a clean slate organisation-wise but, really, what better opportunity to really feel like you’re getting yourself together?

2. Have a bed time

And a wake up time, too. Lately I’m a total Grandma and get all tucked up for 9 pm so I can wake up bright and early – you don’t have to be that drastic, but getting a solid 7 hours or so and waking up on time is not only guaranteed to boost your mood, but it will keep you productive too! If you struggle with sleep, there’s some small steps you can take (like keeping your sheets fresh and sweet smelling, experimenting with herbal teas before bed and checking out sleep podcasts) that might help!

3. Do. Not. Diet.

If you take one piece of advice from me, let it be this. Post-Christmas, we’re completely inundated with gym membership offers, influencers selling detox drinks and media pushes to get our beach bodies ready early. Listen carefully: Screw. That. There’s nothing wrong with aiming to be healthier through things like drinking more water, eating more vegetables or trying to get your body moving a bit more, but diet culture is toxic. This time of year can be especially hard on people suffering with or recovering from eating disorders, but it can take a hit on absolutely anyone’s self esteem, and that’s not okay. Trust me when I tell you, you’re great as you are.

4. Learn to say ‘no’

Or, in other words, be more selfish. I know I’m incredibly guilty of doing things I don’t particularly want to just to try and keep other people happy, whether that be attending a family dinner where I know I’ll get the third degree from Grandma or going on a night out to keep my friends happy when I’m just really not feeling it. But – I’m going to be making a conscious effort to change that. Put yourself first!

5. Prioritise mental health

Absolutely the most important thing on this list. Even armed with all our well-intended resolutions for New Years, things don’t always go according to plan. We still feel down, we still have off days or times when we don’t feel in control – and that’s okay. The important thing is to remember that you’re not alone, and that it’s always best to reach out to someone you trust if you’re struggling. And if you don’t feel ready to do that just yet – here’s a handy list of helplines you can get in touch with.

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