Make Your Health and Wellbeing a Priority in 2024
Proclamations of living a healthier and happier life in the new year are common. Still, for some entrepreneurs and small business owners, such a resolution could seem untenable, given their already packed schedules and successful routines.
Perhaps you get it — who has the time or energy, right?
However, a solution for your predicament lies in that first step toward any goal: resolve health and wellness a priority. You know, just like you did when you set out to start a company. Or now, as you juggle multiple tasks and manage a successful business.
Put it on your resolution list to be healthier and happier in 2024. Deem it worthy and create the action steps to achieve the objective.
In addition to nutritious eating and regular exercise, consider incorporating these three key healthful practices as you set out to prioritize your health and wellbeing in the new year.
Sleep. Do not underestimate the importance of sleep—the amount and quality you get is crucial in everything you do and feel.
“It is as essential to our bodies as eating, drinking, and breathing, and is vital for maintaining good mental and physical health,” says a report by the Mental Health Foundation, a nonprofit in the United Kingdom. “Sleeping helps to repair and restore our brains, not just our bodies.”
Entrepreneur Trivinia Barber says she now understands the impact sleep has and is opting to prioritize it.
“My attention to detail, ability to cast vision and solve problems without losing my cool are all impacted by how much sleep I get,” says Barber, founder of the virtual staffing agency PriorityVA, as part of a Forbes expert panel post.
“I've been on both ends of the spectrum, where I prioritize business at the detriment of my sleep and when I put my rest above all else. I've seen proof in our metrics and in my wellbeing—my health determines the success of my business.”
Routine breaks. If you need to, start scheduling breaks for yourself, even brief ones. It can help you “find the time” if you build it into your daily calendar.
For example, put a break on your schedule for things as simple as grabbing water or a healthy snack (even more important if you’re skipping lunch). Or use a break to walk outside for a few minutes to get some fresh air. Even a walk around the block.
A break to take a few deep breaths could also be helpful. Those who practice and study controlled and mindful breathing say it can stave off stress — by helping slow the heart and stabilize blood pressure.
Meditation. Speaking of breaths, consider adding meditation into your new routine of healthier living in 2024.
There are many types or styles of meditation, i.e., guided vs. unguided sessions, those that focus more on breathing or on mindfulness, etc.; plus, they vary in time commitments.
Some of the more commonly known benefits of meditation include stress reduction, improved focus and concentration, increased emotional regularity, and enhanced creativity.
You might want to look at the apps available to look at meditation options and as a convenient way to incorporate the practice into your schedule. Meditation apps range in cost, including free options, and cater to both the experienced and newbies.
Don’t forget, you’ll want — and need — reliable business internet to seamlessly access your meditation app or any other health and wellness app you’ve chosen to help support your 2024 resolution.