Did you make some resolutions for the new year? And now that several months have passed, how are you doing? Are you still going strong? Or, is it time to regroup? Even if resolutions aren’t your thing, perhaps establishing good habits is.

Lots of studies have been done on people who are considered to be at the top in their fields. And many of these studies have shown that there are certain actions that these leaders practice every day. They have habits that may contribute to their success.

• Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise is definitely a good habit to establish – no matter what type of exercise you like. Running, CrossFit, biking, yoga, and more can help keep your body healthy and your mind, too. Exercise can help lower blood pressure, help with weight loss, decrease stress, and release endorphins so that you feel happier.
• Eat a Healthy Diet: A healthy diet consists of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains – and it can be a difficult feat sometimes to make it happen. But it’s well worth it to eat healthily. The benefits of a healthy diet include weight loss, a reduced risk for many diseases and illnesses, heart health, strong bones and teeth, improved memory, and even better sleep.
• Take Time to Meditate: Even if it’s just a few minutes each day, take some time to meditate. Meditation allows you to train your brain and redirect your thoughts. And the benefits can range from reduced stress to better emotional health and lengthening your attention span. It’s no wonder that this is a daily practice of many successful people. If you’re new to meditation, you might download an app like Calm, Headspace, or Insight Timer. 
• Manage Stress: Stress is something that everyone has to deal with, and everyone has different ways of managing it. The important thing is to do just that – manage it. Whatever you do to keep your stress in check – make it a priority.
• Get Rid of the Clutter: Studies have shown that clutter makes you less productive, leads to unhealthier eating, and decreases your ability to think clearly. Those are some pretty good reasons to declutter. Whether at home or at work, do not surround yourself with clutter.
• Read: 
  • Did you know that there is an activity that can:
    • Stimulate your brain
    • Reduce stress
    • Expand your knowledge and vocabulary
    • Improve your memory
    • Make you a better critical thinker
    • Improve your writing skills
    • Increase your focus and concentration
    • There is – and it’s reading! Whether you read for pleasure or to advance your career or to learn a new skill, spend a few minutes each day reading.
• Keep a Journal: A journal is a great place to write down your dreams, goals, reflections – just about anything you can think of! Carry a journal with you, so that you can put pen to paper and capture ideas and thoughts at any time. 
• Smile: Smiling is a habit to embrace daily. It can reduce your stress and blood pressure, strengthen your immune system, and increase your endurance. And let’s not forget – improve your mood!
• Unplug: At the end of the day, unplug from electronics. Try and leave your phone in a room other than your bedroom to facilitate better sleep. And, schedule times during the day – especially on the weekends – when you’re not so readily available via text or email.
• Get Good Sleep: You never realize how important a good night’s rest is until you find yourself not sleeping well. Do all you can to get a good night’s rest. 

Charles Duhigg said, “If you believe you can change – if you make it a habit – the change becomes real.” Start establishing some good habits today.