Unlocking your potential: tips on becoming your best self
By Luke Chesser via Unsplash
By Niamh Cavanagh
Burn out is increasingly relevant among people today. We live in a fast-paced world, searching for the next big thing until we are exhausted. This is a common problem that many people can relate to, however this doesn’t have to be the case.
Many people are finding small ways to improve both their mental and physical health one step at a time. These insist on everyday activities that are proven to boost your mental well being and therefore become the best version of yourself. From moving physically to setting targets, here are five tips on how to become your best self.
1.Moving your body:
This does not have to include a strict gym routine, but moving physically benefits not only your physical well-being, but your mental well being, too. Look into joining a gym and start with a light exercise routine. This will be beneficial as exercise releases endorphins naturally lifting your mood and reducing stress. Other activities such as going for walks outside can help achieve step goals and to get fresh air. Fitness classes and homework outs can also be beneficial. Many lifestyle centres offer classes such as yoga, pilates and spin. If these are not accessible, home workouts can be just as good. Videos and lessons are taught on many different platforms such as YouTube. There are also a wide range of different exercise routines, meaning that there is something for everyone no matter what you may be interested in.
2. Setting goals:
Setting yourself small targets to complete throughout the day or week have also been found to boost motivation and self-improvement. These can be small achievements such as waking up earlier, drinking more water or being more positive. The idea is not to be too hard on yourself when creating these goals to make sure they are realistic. You should also celebrate completing them to encourage yourself to continue.
3.Eating well:
It is easier to be more productive when you feel energised. This can be encouraged by eating nutritious foods. It doesn’t have to be about cutting all carbs out of your diet, it is more about eating a variety of foods from different groups including a protein and fibre. Other supplements such as vitamins have also been found help, such as vitamin C and A. Finding out what your body may need more of, and making these changes to add these foods to your diet, will help your physical and mental wellbeing. Setting a goal to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated will also help.
4.Environment changes:
Your environment can affect your overall mood. Being exposed to sunlight and fresh air regularly can help to feel less stressed and reduce anxiety. Having a comfortable environment can also lead to feeling more relaxed. This can be encouraged by having a clean room or home, organising your work environment and finding time to take breaks in a calming environment.
5.Meditation:
Meditation has been proven to help with concentration and with regulating emotions. Meditation doesn’t have to be long or difficult to follow. There are many apps such as Head Space that give you a step-to-step guide on how you can do it. It also doesn’t have to be a long process, as some mediation courses only take five minutes. There are many types of mediation that can help with different goals such as dealing with sleep issues, stress, anger or sadness.