They say "old habits die hard," but when you start doing simple things that are beneficial, they can easily become good habits too. Here are some of those habits that we think can make a real difference:
1. Journal
Photo from Lifehack
Keeping a journal may sound like a lot of work, but it's actually a useful tool to do something as simple as track your daily tasks. Journaling doesn't necessarily mean pouring your heart out into a book (although that is beneficial too). You can use a journal for something as simple as to-do lists and reminders. As powerful as our brains are, it may be overwhelming to try and remember everything. You also risk forgetting certain tasks or little pieces of information by simply trying to remember it. Instead, why not keep a journal?
Write down the things you should remember so you can look back on them. You can also keep a record of random things that can serve as reminders in the future. Did you get some inspiration while getting ready in the morning? Write it down. Do you want to keep track of when you open new skincare? Write it down. You never know when this random information can be useful to you!
2. Hands off your face!
Photo from Specialists In Dermatology
When Covid-19 was in full force, we were told not to touch our face, especially our eye, nose, and mouth area, to prevent the virus from entering our body. Even though we've mostly gone back to normal routines now, this is still a simple habit that you should maintain!
Keeping your hands off your face is a hygienic practice. Our hands touch all kinds of surfaces throughout the day, and we can never know how clean (or dirty!) those surfaces really are. By avoiding touching your face, you can also prevent bacteria transfer which may cause acne. Speaking of acne, keeping your hands off your face is also a good way to stop picking on existing acne! Picking on acne can lead to scarring or even more breakouts as a result of bacteria transfer.
3. Wash your hair upside down
Photo from SkinVeteran
If you have long hair, this trick may help you achieve better hair! How to do it? Flip your head upside down, shampoo your hair, rinse, and towel dry your hair. This simple habit can help improve blood circulation, create more volume for your hair, and reduce back acne! Some haircare products can cause back acne, so this trick can prevent the haircare products from coming into contact with your back. If your hair appears flat or lifeless, washing your hair upside down could give it more "body" and make your hair appear fuller.
4. Walk more
Photo from medibank
It is recommended that we walk up to 10,000 steps per day. This may seem like a lot at first, but if you make some adjustments to your daily life, you'll find that 10,000 steps is actually quite achievable. If your destination is within walking distance and it's safe for you to walk, try walking instead of taking transport. If you drive, try parking slightly further away from the entrance. Instead of taking the lift or escalator, take the stairs every once in a while. A healthy lifestyle starts with small but consistent steps, and this can be a good start!
5. Drink enough water
Photo from MedicalNewsToday
We all know how important it is to drink enough water, but how many of us actually do it? Keeping our body hydrated is important to support its functions like digestion, delivering oxygen throughout the body, flushing out waste, and even preventing stress hunger or binge eating. Whenever you crave sweets or junk food, drink some water instead. Studies show that sometimes, you're not actually hungry -- you're just thirsty. You should also drink enough water because it supports the appearance of healthier skin!
Once these simple practices become habits, you will be surprised at how much they can change your life. A better lifestyle doesn't always have to involve big chances -- most of the times, it's in the little things.