Easy Habits For A Healthier And Happier Life In Your 20s
I’m well halfway through my 20s and while sometimes I stop to think just how wild that fact is, I’ve always tried to live my life to the fullest however I can. It’s odd being a fully-fledged adult.
On one hand, I can make every single decision on my own – big or small. I mean I’m expected to!
On the other hand, sometimes, I don’t feel any different than I did when I was a clueless teenager at 16 and at times feel like a phoney who plays dress up in adult clothes.
With most things, I’m just navigating adulthood in the same uncertain way those who were once in my position did, and I’m figuring it all out as I go. Regardless of my age, if I were looking out of the window of my life, I’d see I’ve always really wanted the same things – to find happiness and be in good health.
Isn’t that what we’re all searching for?
Adopting new habits isn’t always easy, but it’s certainly worth doing when striving for a healthier and happier life.
As I navigate the second of my 20s, it’s clear there were always habits that helped me thrive and become a happier version of myself.
However, there were also a few habits that were detrimental to my mental health – but that’s an entry for another day!
Since good things are meant to be shared, I thought I’d let you in on some easy habits I adopted for a healthier and happier life in my 20s.
Building good habits takes time, but implementing them into day-to-day life can really make a big difference.
Let’s dive in!
Create Firm Healthy Boundaries.
One of the biggest parts of adulting is realising that not only are you in control of your life, but you also have a big role to play when it comes to those you keep around you. Whilst, you may have to work side by side with a colleague you don’t like from time to time, maybe even often, it is up to you to protect your mental health and energy.
I was once a chronic people pleaser, and I know exactly what it’s like to spit out a ‘Yes’ when your entire being is screaming ‘No’. I know what it’s like to linger in a relationship where nothing is being given back. And I certainly know what it’s like to transform into someone I’m not at the sound of their voice.
When I recovered my power by prioritising my health and happiness, I learnt about the freeing sensation that comes with learning how to cut someone toxic out of my life. I realised that my peace was just as important as everyone else’s. Creating firm healthy boundaries is one of the most important habits to adopt in your 20s for a happier life.
Be Attentive To Money Matters.
When it comes to finances, I’ve always been quite cautious about how I spend money. I leave items in the cart for a few days to make sure I actually want or even need them. I actively keep track of my spending on a spreadsheet – my only use for Excel! And, I set up a standing order on my bank account so my savings go right out after payday.
When I finally graduated from university and stepped into the real world, I wasn’t surprised to confirm what I already guessed: that school really teaches us little about money, how to make it or save it.
Because of this, I took it upon myself to learn more about money whenever I could and to be smart about how I spend. I’m by no means an expert but being hands-on with my finances makes me feel reassured.
Read More.
Reading opens up the mind, I’m sure of that fact. There’s not much better than settling into bed at the end of the night, travelling into the creative mind of an author that in turn lights up yours. Reading fuels my creativity and at the very least shows me a different side to the same coin.
The good news? There’s something for everyone and reading a few pages a day doesn’t have to take up so much time.
Make Time For Journaling.
I can’t stress enough just how transformative journaling can be. When I was younger, I kept a diary on and off for many years, however, I think it was only in my 20s that I realised just how essential the practice is to my growth.
Contrary to popular belief, I don’t think journaling necessarily has to be a daily practice. Whilst there are tips on how to start journaling and stick to it, it’s really up to an individual to decide what works for you. Journaling has made me more self-aware and in tune with my desires and what I want out of life. If you’re feeling stuck on what to do next, I’d highly recommend trying to journal in order to break down the many thoughts and questions keeping you frozen.
Read More: 30 Powerful Journaling Prompts For Self-Rediscovery
Get More Sunshine.
Living in England, being able to get even a little glimpse of the sun would be ideal really. It wouldn’t be a stretch to say I’m more accustomed to cloudy days and slippery rain than golden rays of sunshine, but I have to make do with what I got.
Since leaving Italy for rainy Manchester, it’s been obvious to me that my mood takes a huge dip whenever the clouds stick around for too long. This means one thing only, whenever the sun pops out, I take advantage of it as much as possible.
There’s something refreshing about stepping outside and allowing the sunshine to kiss your skin. It’s like taking a big breath in and another out – a simple way to get re-energised.
Replace Screentime With (Literally) Anything Else.
A podcast. A walk in the park. Another meetup with a friend. A painting class. Or even a power nap. There is much to do out there, but somehow, it seems the most natural course of action is to sit in bed and mindlessly scroll through Instagram.
Whenever my screen time goes up, my mental health suffers. Knowing that I try to live my life less on social media and more in real life.
It’s not the easiest thing to do, but it’s a necessity for my overall health and happiness. The key to establishing good habits is to realise that doing your best is always better than doing nothing at all.
Your restless romantic roamer
What easy habits for a healthier and happier life have you implemented recently?