It has almost been one month into the new year of 2024. Most people have made resolutions and considered what habits they want to keep up throughout the year. But what are good habits, and what is the best way to form those habits and keep them going?
A habit is a settled or regular tendency or practice, especially one that is hard to give up(Dictionary.com). Good habits help you in the long run, but bad habits can cause harm to your physical and mental health. Without realizing it, many things you do daily can be considered habits, including bad ones.
When thinking about forming habits, consider what will help you and what you struggle with so you can focus on that. Some good habits can be very simple, such as making your bed every morning, drinking a gallon of water every day, washing your face every morning and night, saying good affirmations every morning, praying every day and so much more.
Bad habits can be little things we do daily that we do not notice. Some bad habits can be procrastination, staying up late, nail biting or skin picking, and constantly being on your phone. The people you surround yourself with could also be considered bad habits, such as constantly going back to an ex or a friend who has hurt you multiple times. Being around negative people could lead to more difficulties with that person and harm to yourself.
Overcoming bad habits can be hard, but it is about doing what is best for you. Try to get work done in the morning so it is out of the way and you won’t procrastinate. Make a schedule while you eat breakfast every morning to help keep you on track and accomplish your goals. When limiting screen time try to finish a set amount of goals during the day before you lie down and go on your phone. After school, either take a little break before starting any homework and chores or start any homework or chores as soon as you get home.
Having a schedule in high school can be hard, especially when you come home from school exhausted or have practice, a game, or a job. Habits can be balancing school, sports, work and time for yourself. Find time in your day to take a break from all of the work and stress you face. Find relaxing activities like taking a shower or bath, skincare, talking on the phone, watching a show or movie, or taking a nap.
Another good habit is healthy food choices. Eating well and having a balanced diet is good for your body and mind. Breakfast is an important meal because gets your day started. After fasting all night it is the first opportunity to get sugar, protein, and energy back into your body. Breakfast should include fiber, carbs, protein, and healthy fat. Some examples of a good breakfast are overnight oats with chia seeds and fruit, avocado toast, greek yogurt parfait, whole-grain waffles, pancakes with Greek yogurt, eggs, and fruit smoothies.
Lunch is also an important meal because it gives your body energy in the middle of the day when breakfast wears out, and you still have to make it to dinner. When packing your lunch, try packing it the night before so you have more time
in the morning, and you don’t have to worry about it. Lunch should also include fiber, carbs, healthy fats, veggies, and lean protein. Some examples of a healthy lunch are salads, sandwiches, chicken salad, wraps, or salad bowls with beans or quinoa.
Dinner is an important and sometimes the biggest meal because it is the last chance to get nutrients into your body before you sleep. Dinner can be a small meal, but it is important to eat protein, carbs, and veggies. Some good food options for dinner include salmon, sweet potatoes, chickpeas, lentils, dark leafy greens, chicken, soup, salad, and whole wheat pasta.
Eating a balanced meal includes some sweets, not just healthy options. Enjoying one little treat after dinner once a day is not bad for you, but you can create healthy desserts. Some ideas are strawberry-chocolate Greek yogurt bark, chocolate zucchini bread, pumpkin oatmeal muffins, peanut butter chocolate cookies, cranberry-coconut oatmeal cookies, banana bread cookies, and protein ice cream.
Good habits and resolutions don’t have to be stressful; make them fun and just for you so they are easy to accomplish.
Anzlovar, Sarah. “Healthy Meals: The 10 Best Foods for Dinner.” EatingWell, 3 October 2022. https://www.eatingwell.com/article/7882265/best-healthy-dinner-foods/. Accessed 4 February 2024.
Arrindell, Kylie. “The 5 Principles to Making an Easy Lunch That’s Also Healthy & Filling.” Houston Methodist, 11 December 2020. https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2020/dec/the-5-principles-to-making-an-easy-lunch-thats-also-healthy-and-fillin/. Accessed 4 February 2024.
“Breakfast.” Better Health Channel, https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/breakfast. Accessed 4 February 2024.
Evans, Dillon. “20+ Healthy 3-Step Dessert Recipes.” EatingWell, 16 July 2023, https://www.eatingwell.com/gallery/8058283/healthy-3-step-desserts/. Accessed 4 February 2024.
Goggins, Leah. “20+ Easy Lunch Ideas in 10 Minutes.” EatingWell, 3 February 2023, https://www.eatingwell.com/gallery/7965827/10-minute-easy-lunch-ideas/. Accessed 4 February 2024
Ward, Elizabeth. “10 Best Healthy Breakfast Foods to Eat.” EatingWell, 24 September 2023, https://www.eatingwell.com/article/7874786/best-healthy-breakfast-foods-to-eat/ . Accessed 4 February 2024.
“Why is Dessert Important After Eating Food | Oakville Bakery.” Casa Romana Sweets, 6 January 2022, https://casaromanasweets.com/why-is-dessert-important-after-eating-food/. Accessed 4 February 2024.