​About The Author:  Lisa Smalls

​Lisa is a freelance writer from Raleigh, NC. When she isn't writing, you can find her trying a new recipe or rearranging the furniture in her house!

Did you make a New Year’s resolution on January 1st? If you haven’t, or are looking for a new one, consider 2019 as the year to make realistic lifestyle changes through small, attainable goals that can make a big difference. Consider mindfulness, getting more sleep, or developing deeper gratitude as realistic goals when making 2019 your best year yet!
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Small Lifestyle Changes that Will Make a Big Impact in 2019

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Learning To Be Mindful

Mindfulness can be far less complicated than it sounds. Learning how to be present, not living in the past or the future, is a powerful, life-changing skill that is attainable through practicing any one of several different everyday activities suggested. ​

A state of mindfulness produces energy, reduces forgetfulness, and leads to greater happiness. It’s so important not to go on autopilot through daily activities, so you truly experience and appreciate each day to the fullest. Being aware of your thoughts and how they shape your daily life is essential to being present.

Getting More Sleep

I’m sure we all know that sleep is important to emotional, physical, and psychological well-being, including mindfulness. But did you know the more surprising benefits of sleep, like stronger creativity, better attention skills, improved weight management, and increased lifespan?  
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Since we all know that sleep is important, how do we improve our sleep, considering that 70 million Americans suffer from a certain degree of insomnia? According to the American Cancer Society, a great deal of achieving better sleep is through planning your waking time accordingly. Another factor to consider is your mattress. Are you for example a side sleeper? Picking the right mattress for you and your sleep habits can make a big difference for your mind and body over time.

An Attitude Of Thankfulness

In addition to sleep, thankfulness or gratitude also is shown through studies to decrease depression and increase happiness. Gratitude means thanks and appreciation. There are practical steps to help develop a lasting attitude of gratitude, which in turn makes you not only grateful for people and circumstances in your life but also makes you appreciative of who you are as a person.

Consider achievable daily practices to ensure that not only are you living the good life, but that you are fully appreciating it and enjoying it at the same time. What better way to celebrate a new year and your life than being more aware of what to appreciate about it! ​

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So in sum, these New Year’s resolutions may seem lofty on face value, but when provided with daily practices that break these concepts down into realistic, attainable goals, these type of resolutions are sure to have a lasting impact beyond 2019 in a meaningful way. Use these life skills to improve the quality of your life and those around you. Out of daily practices suggested for how to achieve each of these larger goals, try starting with one or two at a time, incorporating new habits one by one. Before you know it, you will be enjoying a healthier and happier lifestyle both personally and professionally.

You May Also Like:

• Eight Ways To Improve Your Lifestyle, And It’s Easier Than You Think!​
• ​50 Life Lessons Learned Over 50 Years

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