How do we prioritize ourselves this year?

Before 2023 arrived, people were already talking about how they will be putting boundaries in place going into the new year.

From protecting their mental health to only answering opportunities that best serve them, 2023 looks to be the year where people will put themselves first.

And I get it! Trust me, I do.

But is prioritizing ourselves about setting boundaries, or about going after the things that will bring you fulfillment in life? I think the answer could easily be “yes” to either of these questions.

I know what it is like to transition from a year of feeling mentally drained to being ready to simply thrive.

So, how do we shift the focus to putting a plan in place to help us win this year, especially in our health and wellness?

Well, we can start by taking simple steps when we wake up in the morning.

Try stretching, exercising, meditating, or even reading uplifting material. If you are like me, you may enjoy sipping on a hot beverage like tea and sitting in silence before the world starts moving.

Collecting your thoughts in the morning can also help prepare you to take on the challenges of the day.

Now listen, I understand. Sometimes living with others or having a family can make setting time aside for yourself difficult. However, if you can find time throughout your day to squeeze in some personal activity for yourself it could help you be more intentional about your overall health and wellness.

You can also maximize your commute time by listening to music, a podcast or your favorite radio station to help boost your mood for the day.

Oh, and don’t forget to find time to get some fresh air and sunlight throughout the day. Doing so could really help elevate your mood and give you a moment to reset.

Everything in life is about balance. Technology has become an essential part of life, especially since the pandemic, but it can make it hard to unplug at times.

Try replacing some of your social media time with journaling to help with self-reflection. You can also be proactive this year about writing down actionable steps you can take to move closer to some of your goals for this year.

If you don’t take anything away from this op-ed, I want you to remember that if you do not replenish yourself on a regular basis with the things you love, you will eventually feel depleted and burn out.

Maybe this is your year to explore new side hobbies or finish a passion project. Whatever you do, try to commit to carving out time to work on it. Your future self will be happy you did.

“By taking care of myself, I have so much more to offer the world than I do when I am running on empty.” — Ali Washington