As we enter February, we’re finally into the swing of 2021. And now that we have abandoned our New Year’s resolutions, it’s time to commit to long lasting and positive changes. So, let’s kick things off with our top tips for a happy, healthy and productive 2021!

Wash your hands

Even though we have coronavirus vaccines on the horizon, we can still boost our health and hygiene by maintaining our pandemic-busting practices from 2020. Regularly washing our hands is one of the best defences against germs and disease and can keep us all safe and healthy in 2021.

Hand washing instructions

Reconsider your time on social media

Hashtag

We’re often told to reduce our time on social media, but this might not be right for everyone. Instead, you can evaluate how you use it and how you feel afterwards. If you sense your anxiety increasing after a scrolling session, then reducing your social media may be advisable. However, if you enjoy your Insta interactions and use the apps to boost your everyday life then carry on! Social media isn’t always a hinderance; it can be a help too.

Take chances

2021 isn’t the year for shying away from challenges. Take every chance you get to better yourself or have a good time. Thinking about asking for a promotion at work? Go for it! Considering participating more in your class discussions at college? Definitely! Debating trying out that hobby you’ve always wanted to try? Now is the time! Make 2021 a year to remember.

Get the right amount of sleep

Our sleep patterns faced a lot of disruption during lockdown. Staying at home meant that we burned less energy and were able to indulge in a lie in almost every day. The Sleep Foundation recommends 7-9 hours of sleep a night for adults but this vary depending on your personal circumstances.

Try to monitor how you feel after a long 10 hour sleep compared to a shorter 7 hour snooze. You may find that you need less (or more) than you thought.

You could also try a natural wake up cycle where you don’t use an alarm. This may sound like a crazy idea, but it could help you wake up happier and easier every day! You can practice this by going to bed at the same time every night and monitoring when you wake up. You will probably find that you wake up far earlier than you thought! You can find more advice here.

Person sleeping

Try out meditation

Person meditating in nature

Many of us struggle with the idea of sitting still and meditating. But how many hours do you spend sitting still in front of a screen? Turn your down time into something productive by giving meditation a go.

Just 15-20 minutes of meditation a day can help you feel more relaxed, less stressed and more resilient. And who doesn’t want that? You can learn meditation online or through apps such as Headspace.

Read more

Reading books can strengthen your brain, reduce stress and improve sleep! If you’re currently studying or working, all of these benefits could significantly improve your productivity. Set yourself simple targets like reading for 20 minutes before bed and see if you feel any changes. Then, when you feel ready, you can increase your reading sessions.

Spend money on experiences rather than things

Sure, buying a new gadget or item of clothing might feel good at the time, but experiences can deliver heaps more satisfaction! Research has shown that experiences deliver long-lasting happiness and help shape our identity.

Here’s why experiences could bring you more happiness:

  • Experiences create fond memories
  • Purchasing items creates clutter, which increases stress
  • Including friends and family in your experiences helps to build stronger bonds
  • You will feel more ‘present’ from experiences, which results in greater happiness

2020 made it difficult to have experiences, so don’t let 2021 be the same!

Study

Whether you’re already enrolled in a course, or you’re considering it, studying can make us feel great!

By enrolling in college, taking an online course or learning a new skill, you will feel more in control and optimistic about your future. Your studies could also increase your job prospects and earning potential, which can lead to a greater quality of life and higher job satisfaction. Feel empowered this year by expanding your mind and your skills!

Buy a plant

Having a plant at your desk can boost productivity and relieve stress! You breathe better air and feel a great sense of accomplishment every time it sprouts a new leaf or flower. It will also make your workspace look fantastic. So, what are you waiting for?

Check out these easy to care for house plants.

House plants

If you’ve thought that you’d like to improve your 2021 with education, Central Australian College can help! We have several courses that can help you achieve your goals. You could even fit your studies around your work and personal commitments with flexible learning options. Contact us to find out more!