The beginning of a new year is always exciting for almost everyone, me included. It’s a new start, a blank canvas to grow, improve or continue to shine.

2017 was a great year in so many ways but what I am most grateful for is the personal growth I experienced. Started off the year at home, hands-on mom on board. I enjoyed every moment of it but I just couldn’t wait to get back to work back in September. But one thing that I couldn’t shake off was how I would be able to pull off being back in work full-time and still able to  do mummy duties and still have time to give myself attention just like I did while on maternity leave.

On this post, I will share with  you a few things that made me stay grounded and still be there for my loved ones around me.

1. Exercise (On no. 1 spot! surprise surprise)

Obviously this has to take 1st place in my self-care priorities. Not only do I work out for physical health, I feel good mentally.  It’s true, with exercise you can trump stress and feel happier. As I said this before I don’t have the luxury to go to the gym so I bring the gym to my house. I’ve had to invest on some free weights and I just follow YouTube videos. I can’t always do 6 days a week but I aim for at least 4 which usually last  from about 30 minutes to an hour. Accountability goes a long way, to have a great support of people around you who have the same goals as you is absolutely essential. I found mine mostly through social media. My Fitbit community is amazing, we have weekly challenges for who gets the most steps during that time.

2. Social Media Detox

It’s so easy to get carried away while scrolling through social media. Facebook was my weakest point. I have absolutely nothing against it but I just had to buckle up and prioritize my time. I decided to take it off my home screen on my phone and stop notifications. The app is still there but it’s not on my face when I turn on my phone. Rather, I have an  affirmation, or an inspiring  message to read instead.

3.  Podcasts (yes, I am addicted) 

I love to surround myself with positive thoughts. I want to continuously get educated and inspired. I like to have a good laugh. I have a long drive to work. So what better way to spend my time but listen to the most inspiring messages during my commute. This one deserves another post where I can share with you my favorites that I have subscribed to. I’ve learnt so much and ready to implement all these lovely lessons to my life.

4. Keeping a Journal

I enjoy writing a lot and being able to put down my thoughts in a piece of paper has just been amazing. I keep a gratitude journal where I can always show my appreciation for the little things that somehow might get forgotten.  It’s easy to say thank you for all the major things happening, a new job or a big opportunity but we forget about the little things. Waking up in the morning, being able to have your morning coffee or having hot water for your morning shower. We take some things for granted and don’t realize how much we rely on them. Taking a few moments everyday to think about these goes a long way in boosting you into a positive person.

5. Being Mindful

Being mindful offers potential to improving general and especially mental well-being. It means bringing your presence to every thing that you do by focusing the physical feelings and maintaining awareness. For example, how often do you pick up and look at your phone for no absolute reason when you are supposed to have a conversation with someone who is there with you. I try to avoid being on my phone especially when I’m home with the kids. They need my undivided attention, this is the time that if I let it go by I will never get it back. Mindful practices also include meditation –  a time  to connect by simply putting yourself in a calm state either through silence, guided meditations or anything that works for you.

So there you are guys, I wish you all the best for 2018. Make it yours and make it count. By the end of the year, I hope we all look back and be all smiles. Take charge, if you really want something go for it. You may encounter setbacks but don’t let them dictate your life as failures.

Love to you all