If you already found out steps to realize New Year’s resolutions, maybe you can start working on improving your mental health and try to be a happier person in 2020. Your mood affects everything in your life – relationship, work, self-care – so improving it should be at the top of your goal list. Let’s find out what is the most common therapists’ suggestion.
Conquer One Fear
Usually, our fears are the biggest obstacles in achieving important goals in life. Overcoming them should be your priority at the beginning of the year. Just select the fear that makes you anxious and treat that as though it is your number one enemy. Perhaps it will be hard, but when you face your fear, you will conquer it and be a happier person.
Make a Progress List
It’s time to let go of that expectation that things are always going to be perfect. Expecting perfection guarantees you’ll feel like a failure and can lead to serious anxiety. Instead, try writing down the improvements you make each week, even if you think that these are small successes. Keep in mind that just these small goals can lead you to the big ones.
Exercise on a Regular Base
Probably, we hear many times that exercise plays a large role in mental health. Then, what exactly is stopping you from doing it? The most important thing is finding something you enjoy at and exercise regularly. Physicians suggest 30 minutes a day, if you can.
Turn Your Phone Off
Many studies have shown that too much tech time can negatively impact mental health. Also, there appears to be a consistent connection between increased screen time in patients and depression or anxiety. Become less available via text or email, so as not to feel emotionally tethered to your devices.
Give Up One Unhealthy Habit
Stop smoking, for instance! We know which things are bad for us and can cause stress. Because of that, start 2020 by cutting back on some bad habits. Maybe, it is smoking, drinking alcohol or too much coffee. If you give up on some of them, you will be proud of yourself and a happier person.
Spend 10 Minutes a Day Outside
One of your New Year’s resolutions should be to spend less time inside and more time outdoors. Go for a walk during your lunch break, spend a few minutes drinking coffee outside or pick up running. That doesn’t take you more than 10 minutes, and you will be in a better mood and relieve anxiety.