6 ways to kick start 2016 (again)

New Year. New Me. Whoops my mistake, it’s June and I haven’t achieved any of my resolutions from the start of the year so it’s time to get cracking.

Sound familiar?

I’m pretty sure you’d planned to lose 20kg by June alongside learning the Arabic language and becoming a professional unicycler. There’s something about the New Year that inspires absolute confidence. It’s not just a New Year, it really is the NEW YOU!

What a time to be alive. Cue footage from Bridget Jones as she slaves away at the gym, waxes her upper lip and pens a witty entry into her diary. This all happens after the Christmas binge drinking and the unfortunate upward man battle which we politely forget.

If you’re drowning in study, being slammed at work or just looking for a bit of a life line; check out these small steps to take towards kick starting the life according to you.

1. Ditch Caffeine

I promise it’s not as hard as you think, truly. I am also sure that people are plotting my death for suggesting such a blasphemous act but hear me out! Not only is your daily (three) cappuccinos zapping you of vital nutrients, it’s also dehydrating you as your body battles to combat Sydney’s brutal Winter. Avoid the rollercoaster fatigue and try a decaf instead. You’ll sleep better, work better and be better.

2. Get Moving

I’m not talking about 5am boot camp in 9 degrees or to start training for a triathlon. We’re sticking to an achievable level and opting for lunch time walks (the hottest part of the day), walking meetings and hot yoga sessions.

3. Work towards your future (start saving $20/week for a house)

Wow, the good times just keep on rolling; she’s suggesting we have enough money to SAVE! The hardest thing about saving for a humungous goal is getting started. Buying property in Sydney seems completely unattainable yet squirrelling away $20/week will get you steps closer. 

Hot Hint: There’s a setting on your online banking that allows you to ‘hide’ your account so you can’t see or touch the amount in it. Helpful for those compulsive shoppers.

4. Write down one thing you’re grateful for everyday

You don’t have to pen a sonnet but it’s something to keep you centred and appreciative. You might be grateful for the pal who shouted you a decaf coffee or your neighbour for returning your escapee dog - there’s always something to be grateful for.

5. Tell your siblings you love them

It’s easy to forget especially when they’re stealing your clothes, friends and food but your siblings are with you for the long run. Send them a text, write a note and slip it under their bedroom door or have a bear hug before you leave the house. It’s nice to remember they’ll always have your back.

6. Book a weekend trip away

Don’t break the bank and team up with your crew for an overnighter somewhere. Split the costs and you’ll feel a lot better about it and have something to look forward to. You’ll probably still get Europe FOMO but a weekend away in the Hunter Valley can sometimes just hit the spot.

These tips won’t transform you into a Victoria’s Secret model but they’ll help you refocus, reevaluate and move forward with a smile. Or they’ll just be a distraction until Summer reappears again.

Either way, you can’t lose!