Focus on yourself in the new year

When setting New Year’s intentions, it’s easy to get caught up in career or physical health achievements. You strategise to work extra hours or get to the gym a certain number of days per week, but that’s not always the right mindset for success.
The key to external success starts within. Learning how to focus on yourself means putting self-care first to properly prepare yourself to take on your goals. Start with these tips as a guide to self-improvement in 2020.

1. Try new things
Each year, make a commitment to trying something new to avoid getting stuck in a rut. Take up a new hobby — something creative to keep you energised and enrich your life. Try a new language, a new craft or a new sport, focusing on the fun and joy it brings you.
2. Save time, do more
Before you set goals for the new year, make sure you have time for them. No matter how busy you are, there’s always room to clear something off your schedule. Simplify your life by asking your family for more help around the house or investing in tools that will help save you time on household tasks.
3. Take time to self-reflect
Self-reflection is an important part of putting yourself first. Reflect on the past year. Where were you a year ago and where are you today? How does this compare to where you want to be? Answering these questions truthfully is a crucial part of growth. Writing in a journal will help you organise your thoughts and emotions to feel more in control of your life path.
4. Just say no
If it doesn’t bring you joy or add to your life, let it go. Cut out activities that drain your energy and don’t give anything back. Saying “no” might be uncomfortable for you, but it isn’t mean. It’s a way to save you from spending too much physical and mental energy and burning out.
5. Limit screen time
It’s so easy to become addicted to your devices, spending way too much time on your phone or computer. Make a point to power down electronics by a certain time each night and wind down before you go to bed. You’ll sleep better and have more energy to take on the next day.
6. Live in the present
Avoid getting caught up in the past or future and live life in the present. Whether you’re spending time with loved ones, enjoying your favorite activity or simply cleaning the kitchen, your current activity should be the most important thing in your life at that moment. As you enter the new year, follow these tips to focus on making yourself happy. When you prioritise and make time for you, success will follow.