Looking to start the year off feeling in control and on top of the world? Don’t we all wish for that? But maybe you worry it will take you too long to get on top of all the areas in your life that need a tune-up? It does not have to be that way.
Feeling in control of your life and knowing what you want to achieve in each area might be simpler than you might first imagine. Here are the key areas to assess that will help you get organized for the year ahead.
Medications and Doctor Appointments
When was the last time you went to the dentist? Or had an eye exam? Can’t remember? Then make this next year one where you take care of all the checkups that you’ve been putting off. The NIH encourages regular checkups that screen for the following:
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol levels
- Diabetes
- Immunizations
Depending on your family history, you will also want to make an appointment for other high-risk areas. For example, a skin exam for signs of skin cancer, etc.
At the same time, look at the medications and treatments you are taking and consult with a trusted doctor on their effectiveness. The Barnes Firm, a personal injury attorney, has found that certain supplements are not as safe as initial claims state.
Take the time now to assess all your medications and block out certain dates in the coming year for the various checkups you need.
Health and Fitness Choices
All of us believe in theory that exercise is good for us, and that making healthy diet changes can go far to preventing a wide range of ailments. But the reality is we often fall short when it comes to implementing these beliefs in our day to day lives.
It often doesn’t take long for us to pinpoint areas in our lives we could stand to improve in. The hard part for many of us is coming up with a plan that we won’t abandon within a couple of days of trying out the new routine.
The plan you settle on must be practical and play to your personal interests. For example, moving the treadmill in front of the television set. And only watching your favorite show while getting the recommended amount of physical activity.
Instead of committing to large goals, focus on creating a process that will help you achieve your goals.
Personal Growth
Do you suspect a promotion you wanted went to someone else because you lacked some skill that a coworker had? What skills could you learn that would take your career to the next level? What areas in your life could thrive if you committed yourself to mastering a new skillset?
Investing in yourself—whether through time or money—is one investment that you will never regret. Ask yourself what was the one area you wish you had done better in last year, and then make that a theme for 2018.
Sign up for a course that teaches the skill you wish to acquire. Or brainstorm with a friend ways to improve in that area. Books are often cheaper than courses or seminars, and if you learn better through reading than through sitting in a class, more power to you!
Financial Mastery
How much did you spend on eating out per week, month, and year? The amount might surprise you. Particularly when you consider that the same amount could have gone toward an important upgrade or travel plans that you had to put off. What other financial goals are you not achieving due to your spending habits? What financial goals do you want to hit this year? How will you make that a reality?
The year-end is the perfect time for doing some financial housekeeping. Assess the amount you spent on various activities. Reflect on your spending habits and whether you got what you wanted. Or if you feel buyer’s remorse. But don’t stop there. After reflecting on your spending habits, think about what changes to your spending habits you want to make for the year ahead. And come up with a budget that is more aligned with how you feel at present and the choices you wish you had made this last year.
Finally, as you close the year, don’t forget to think of and care for the people in your life. Are you making time for the relationships that are important to you? The support of family and friends will go far to help you weather whatever 2018 has up its sleeve.
Featured Image Source: Pixabay
