Like you, I’m always searching for ways to squeeze more out of life…
- More productivity in less time
- Better mental, physical, and emotional health
- Deeper and more meaningful relationships
And who doesn’t want to have more fun, right?
In my relentless pursuit of self-improvement, I uncovered 7 seemingly “normal” habits that secretly sabotage us.
Don’t just take my word for it. It’s backed by hard science, and top performers swear by the results when they address these habits. I had no idea how much these 7 things were a part of my daily routine or their effect on my life.
This blows my mind 🤯👇🏻
The Innocent Morning Phone Check
Do you roll over and grab your phone first thing?
You might think it’s OK, but did you know that 89% of people who check their phones within the first 10 minutes of waking are setting themselves up for a day of distraction and stress?
WHY? Because it floods your brain with cortisol and dopamine before you’ve even had breakfast. Yikes!
Brain Boost: Try a phone-free morning routine. Even 15 minutes can set the day with a calmer tone and less distraction.
The “No Time for Exercise” Excuse (A New Me)
No time for the gym?
With your packed schedule, skipping exercise might seem like a time-saver. In reality, it’s depriving your brain of blood flow and mood-boosting chemicals, leaving you feeling sluggish.
Brain Boost: Try a 10-minute walk; it can make a world of difference. Movement is a stress-buster!
The “Sleep When I’m Dead” Mentality (Set Up a Sleep Routine)
No bedtime routine? Scrolling before bed? Poor sleep is the quickest way to mental fog and overwhelm. It creates havoc on your memory, focus, and problem-solving abilities.
Brain Boost: Make sleep a top priority, just like you prioritize your most important meetings. Your brain will repay you with increased clarity and creativity.
Sleep isn’t just for beauty; it’s for brain health, too!
The Comfort Zone Rut (Try New Things)
Your brain is like a muscle – it needs regular workouts to stay sharp. Learning new things creates new neural connections.
It’s called neuroplasticity! Neurons that fire together, wire together (Hebb’s Law)
Brain Boost: Challenge yourself to try one new thing each week. Your brain loves new things!
It doesn’t have to be big – cook a new recipe, take a different route to work, or try a new hobby (even if you’re terrible at it!).
The Sneaky Dehydration Effect (Increase H2O)
Feeling foggy or sluggish? Before you blame it on your workload, try drinking some water. Even mild dehydration can impair your concentration and decision-making abilities, amplifying feelings of overwhelm.
Brain Boost: Keep a water bottle handy and drink up. Proper hydration can clear mental fog. (And it’s really good for your skin too!)
The Information Overload Trap (Time for a Digital Detox)
I get sucked into this one the most!
It’s easy to consume information constantly. But a steady diet of emails, news alerts, and social media can overwhelm your brain’s processing capabilities.
Boost: Set boundaries on your information intake (set a timer). Designate specific times for emails and news, and be selective about your media consumption.
The Multitasking Myth (Better Focus)
Juggling multiple tasks might make you feel productive, but it’s actually increasing your cognitive load.
This constant task-switching can reduce productivity by up to 40% and amplify those feelings of overwhelm you’re trying to escape.
Brain Boost: Embrace single-tasking. Focus on one thing at a time; you’ll accomplish more with less mental stress.
Did you know there’s a FOCUS mode on your phone?
Maybe I’m the only person who didn’t even know it existed. I recently started using this setting to “get things done,” and I have to say it’s been a huge time saver.
Less ‘shiny object’ chasing and task-switching. #winning
Your Path to Clarity and Control
The exciting part: By tweaking just one of these simple habits, you’re not just reducing your overwhelm; you’re setting yourself up for a whole new level of clarity, focus, and accomplishment.
Your challenge (should you choose to accept it): Pick one habit to modify. You will be amazed at how a tiny tweak can shift everything.
Imagine what you’ll accomplish when you’re operating with more clarity and focus. The possibilities are endless!
XOXO
Tonya
P.S. I’m curious – which of these habits hit home for you?
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See you next week!
