If you’re anything like me, you’re probably wishing that 2020 was just over already. (Guess what? You’re very close to getting your wish!) It’s mid-November, which means it’s a great time to think about what changes you can make this year in order to hit the ground running. In other words, it’s time to get back on your feet in a post-COVID world. (PS: You’ve got this!)

Here are some tips.

Get On Top Of Your Finances

There are two steps to getting on top of your finances. Your first step is making sure that you’re saving money whenever you reasonably can. The keyword here is “reasonably.” Sometimes it does pay to spend a little more (or even a lot more). The second step is to do everything possible to grow your income.

Growing your income might seem like an impossible task right now. It is, however, definitely worth investigating options. Even if you already have a full-time job or are caring full-time for children, you might still be able to fit in a side-hustle. You might not make a lot of money at first (or ever) but even little gains can add up.

Another way to build your financial future is to pay interest on your debt. The quicker you can pay back that debt, the less interest you pay, so the less it costs you overall. Also, see if you can reduce your costs by improving your credit record and if so, make that a priority.

Prioritize Exercise & Mental Health

Eating well, sleeping well, and getting a reasonable amount of exercise are all vital for staying in good health. It’s not always easy with kids, but trying to find the time to exercise is important. Your first decision is whether or not to invest in a gym subscription. If you’re not, then it’s time to ditch it and get yourself set up for home workouts. Even if you are, it’s still a good idea to have a plan B in case you can’t get to the gym (for whatever reason).

Exercise is important enough to be worth investing in. What’s more, buying decent exercise equipment and workout clothes generally saves you money in the long run. A brand that I love is Curves N Combatboots, which offers quality clothing to help you perform (and feel) better.

Review Your Home Tech

Assume that everyone is going to have to work, study and/or play from home for at least some time in 2021. Hopefully, they won’t, but it’s best to be prepared. Think about what needs to be in place for that to happen safely (and sanely).

First, you need to make sure that everyone has the equipment they need. If you have old tech lying about your house, decide whether or not it actually serves a useful purpose. If it doesn’t, then consider where you can sell or donate (but make sure all data is deleted from it first!).

You also need to make sure that your internet connection is up to speed. If you’re not keen on investing in data cabling, then you might want to think about buying a WiFi booster. Also, make sure that you’re using strong passwords for everything and appropriate security software whenever you can.

Focus Less On Resolutions & More On Changes

There’s no doubt about it, 2020 has been a tough year. Rather than adding more stress and pressure on yourself to “measure up” or to create long-term resolutions that might set you up for failure before you begin, focus on small shifts you can make in the every day. Changes to make for 2021 don’t have to be over-the-top; instead, think about ways you can be more present with family, more intentional with your technology use, or less anxious about the unknowns.

What are your goals for the new year? Share with us!

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