Sometimes we get so busy with life we forget to check in on what actually makes us happy. With the new year upon us we often get some downtime and it's a great chance to reflect on what brings us joy and take steps to integrate into our lives. I've been thinking about what brings me joy now more than ever for a couple of reasons: So one way I'm ensuring I'm living my best life and living more consciously is to develop a list of 19 things I want to do in 2019 (inspired by one of my favorite podcasts Happier by Gretchen Rubin). But I wanted to take my time and put some thought into this list so I developed a process to live more consciously in 2019 which involves contemplating 3 areas: [thrive_2step id='3012'] [/thrive_2step] What are the things that add to my happiness and I need to do more of? This could include things: What drains my energy down and that I need to avoid or limit. This could include people or things that: Actively seeking new things to do is great for your creativity, energy levels, and critical thinking. This could include: So with the above in mind I have come up with my 19 things I will achieve in 2019:
- In 2018 I lost my dear friend to cancer very quickly and suddenly. It made me understand that life is short and none of us know how long we might have on earth. I realised I was busy being busy and wasn't living consciously.
- My husband Nathan is about the celebrate the big 40 (and I'm quietly having a mild freak out as it's not too far off for me either). Those round number birthdays tend to make us reflect on what's really important to us.
- 2019 is also the year we will become parents with baby Martin due in April. As I contemplate becoming a mum I know I want to be more present and be the best version of myself.
- What fills my cup
- What drains my cup
- What new things could I do to fill my cup
CREATE YOUR 19 FOR 2019 LIST BY CLICKING HERE
HERE'S HOW I CAME UP WITH MY LIST FOR 2019
Step 1: What are the things that fill my cup?
- I enjoy
- That relive stress/anxiety
- I do purely for fun or entertainment
- That help make me kinder
- That makes me laugh
Step 2: What are the things that drain my cup?
- Stress me out
- Trigger me
- Creates unhealthily consequences
- Drains me
- I think I have to do but don't want to
Step 3: What are the new things I can do that will fill my cup?
- Bucket List Items
- Self-care
- New hobby
- New social activity or social circle
- Always something you wanted to do
MY 19 FOR 2019 LIST
- Monthly massage: self-care is so important if we want to be the best version of ourselves. A few months ago, I started having a massage once a month on a Friday afternoon and It's definitely a habit I want to continue in 2019.
- Monthly nature walk in the bush or on the beach: connecting with nature always helps to make me feel calmer and more centered. I'm very lucky that I only live 10 minutes from the best beaches in the world yet sadly I rarely go. So this year I'm going to make more of an effort to enjoy the beautiful outdoors.
- Keep doing Park Run: if you haven't tried Park Run I really encourage you to try it ( don't worry you don't need to run). I love Park Run not only for the fitness but we also have a developed a running group The Workout Wenches and it's a great chance to connect with friends regularly.