For many people, 2020 has been one of the worst years they can remember. The COVID -19 pandemic and social unrest have changed our lives in ways we would not have believed possible a year ago. And when January 2021 comes around, we're still likely to be facing many challenges. Can 2021 be a better year?
To support your emotions in stressful times, Bach flowers can help with a range of problems including insomnia, anxiety and panic attacks. There's no point in worrying about things you can't control, but there are plenty of simple changes you can make so that 2021 is a better year for you. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Being assertive with family, friends and colleagues is one of the bravest things you can do. Setting boundaries might result in people becoming upset with you, but people who love you and are loyal friends or colleagues will respect the limits you set. Some of the things you might consider saying no to include:
Many of us make New Year's resolutions with the best of intentions, but by the end of January, they're often forgotten. If you write down the goals you hope to achieve, you're much more likely to persevere with them. And tell other people about them! We are social beings and require the good opinion of others, so if other people know about your resolutions, you're more likely to achieve them.
Try to do something nice for someone at least once every month. While you probably already do lots of things to help others anyway, make a point of doing something extra now and then. It doesn't have to be expensive or a grand gesture - it can be anything from babysitting for a friend, doing some shopping or gardening for an elderly neighbour, or making a donation to a local charity. Doing something nice for someone else not only helps the recipient but also boosts your self-esteem and lifts your spirits.
At the same time, look after yourself by treating yourself every month to something you want. Again, it doesn't matter what it is: a trip to a beauty spot, a new novel, a spa day or some delicious chocolates. Treating yourself is very important. It energises you and boosts your self-confidence. You'll also feel more cared for and contented so stop feeling guilty about "giving in". Treating yourself could be the first step towards a better year!
We all know that exercise is good for us, so try to move around a bit more. You don't have to start training for a half marathon: get up from your desk at lunchtime and go for a stroll around the block, or go for a cycle ride or walk in the evening. It's not just about the exercise; it's about being outside, enjoying a change of scenery and a break in your routine.
Sleep is one of our most basic needs, and if you aren't getting enough good quality sleep, your health and wellbeing will be affected.
If you aren't sleeping as well as you'd like, try the following tips for good sleep hygiene:
Do you feel as if you've reached a dead end with your job or hobbies? As you move through life, you sometimes outgrow things that you used to enjoy. Take a look at how you spend your time and try to reduce any activities that bore you or drag you down. As the old saying has it, life isn't a rehearsal! If you're no longer getting a buzz from a sport or hobby, it's time to pare it back and try something new.
Sources:
https://www.mindforlife.org/nice-persons-guide-becoming-assertive/
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/doing-good-does-you-good/health-benefits-altruim
https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/sleep/
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