10 Hacks for Living Your Best Life

Whether scrolling through instagram or refreshing your Facebook feed, it seems as though everyone has got it figured out. Staying up-to-date with your favorite nutrition experts and wellness influencers may leave you wondering how they do it. But health is not a one size fits all plan, which is why I’ve figured out my favorite hacks for staying both healthy and happy. I hope that in sharing these tips we will all be on our way to living our best lives!

1. Learn how to say “no”.

I’m sure many of us are guilty of being people pleasers to some degree. Always saying yes to happy hour, to taking on a new work assignment, etc… This can lead to major burnout. Listen to how you truly feel and don’t be afraid to say no when you need a break.

2. But also remember how to say “yes”.

This may sound contradictory to my last point, but sometimes when we get in the habit of doing what’s easy or what’s comfortable, we forget about the joy that comes in new experiences. Don’t be afraid to volunteer for a new project, meet up with a different group or take that vacation you’ve been planning. New experiences will reinvigorate your sense of self and purpose.

3. Don’t sweat the small stuff

There have been plenty of times I thought my life was ending over something trivial (read: TSA confiscated my overnight oats and now I will starve). Instead of spending time dwelling on the oats I missed out on, I could have easily been scouring for a Starbucks or the granola I packed in my bag. This is just an example, but learn to take a deep breath or laugh it off and move on.

4. LAUGH

Find someone or something who makes you laugh. If it’s not enough evidence that it’s been proven to help you live longer, laughing will help to cure just about any woe. Call your best friend, read a funny book or turn on your favorite comedy to feel better in minutes. (Plus it’s a pretty good ab workout).

5. Embrace face to face

In a society that values social media and technology as much as we do, sometimes we forget the importance of face-to-face encounters. Schedule a lunch date or weekend hike with a friend. And for those that aren’t close enough to meet, try calling – you’d be surprised of how much a simple phone call means over a text.

6. Eat what makes YOU feel good

With all the latest trends and fad diets, it can be easy to get swept up in the media telling us what we should and shouldn’t be eating. The best diet for you may not be the same for your friend or your favorite instagram influencer. Pay attention to how you feel after a meal. Eat nutritious, whole foods as much as possible, and don’t forget to treat yourself every now and then. I am all about the 80/20 rule.

7. Get moving

I’m a big fan of hitting up exercise classes as much as possible when I’m on the road. From Soulcycle to Megaformer Pilates to Corepower Yoga, I love to change up my routine. When I can’t make a class, I try to just get outside. Whether it’s a hike or a run, exercise and being outside in nature clears my mind, reduces stress and makes me feel good about myself.

8. Take control of your life

The only person holding you back is yourself. Explore your interests and your passions and take risks. You have full control over your life. Don’t hold back.

9. Learn to love yourself

The one person you are going to be stuck with forever is you, so you better learn to love yourself! Think of the qualities you like most about yourself – whether it’s your humor, your kindness or your determination. Think about how much your body does for you every day and thank it. Mentally and physically learn to accept and love yourself, because as soon as you see it, everyone else will too.

10. Be grateful

When I wake up in the morning or go to bed at night, I like to think of three things I am grateful for that day (even if it’s just sunshine or a smile). This keeps me grounded, present and focused on positivity.