Develop these 7 habits over the next 6 months, and transform your life!

3 Feb

What would happen if you set yourself the goal of developing 7 habits over the next six months? Nothing crazy, nothing too difficult. Just some simple habits that, if done consistently will absolutely change your life.

I've been researching and reading about goals and habits for more than 20 years. And these are my 7 favourite habits to nurture:

Writing down your thoughts before bedtime

There is a lot of evidence to show that by writing down our thoughts before we go to sleep, we can calm our minds and prepare ourselves for a good night's sleep.
Write down:
What you're grateful and thankful for
What's been worrying you or bothering you today
What your plans are for tomorrow

2. Learning something new and developing your mind

Learning something new can really support your mental health as well as develop a new skill. Learning anything will have this effect!

music - learning an instrument, composing
arts and crafts from pottery to weaving, from woodwork to photography
Something technical - build a website, learn animation, film editing, learn to code
Another language - here are many great apps, courses and websites that can help you learn another language

3. Exercise 4 times a week. And it doesn't have to be crazy stuff unless you want to!

Go for a walk in the park

A bit of cold water swimming
Yoga
Dance
A team sport
Go for a run, or join a running club
Go back to the gym with a friend

4. Quiet Time. Spend some time each day in silence. Reflect and be aware of your breath. Silence and quiet times are so important in a crazy, busy world.

Quiet time could be:

meditation
mindfulness
prayer
silent thought

5. Your Sleep Schedule

Your sleep schedule needs to become your routine.

Maintain regular sleep and wake patterns throughout the week
Two hours before bedtime relax and wind down from the day. Start to come off social media, reading/watching the news, reading emails etc. Do something that is calming and gentle. Reading a lovely story, listening to music, chatting with your family, writing in your journal.
Make sure that your bed and bedroom is clean and tidy. Change your sheets every week. Invest in pure cotton bed linen.
Have a bath or a warm shower, and climb into comfy night clothes. Pure cotton is perfect.

6. Read or listen to something inspirational every week. This could be your favourite novel, poetry or a great self-help book. Listening to audio books is a great way to be inspired by others, especially if you have a long commute.