HAVE A MISPLACED ITEMS PLACE
Always dashing around at the last minute, rummaging for misplaced keys or hunting down your bus pass? There's enough stress and chaos without adding to it by being late because you can't find something just as you're about to leave the house. An easy solution is to have a dedicated place for 'frequently misplaced everyday essentials' – perhaps a ceramic dish, or a little shelf – where you put said essentials every time you enter the house. It'll soon become a habit.
USE STORAGE SOLUTIONS
Being more mindful as a consumer (basically not buying tons of stuff you don't actually need), and having regular charity shop clear-outs are great ways of keeping clutter levels in check. But do yourself a favour and kit your space out with adequate storage solutions too. Head to one of those budget homeware shops and stock up on sturdy boxes that can go under the bed/stairs/sink – anywhere, so long as you're concealing the chaos. You will feel calmer and more in control.
PRINT A 'POWER PICTURE'
Feeling strong and confident isn't something that just magically happens. Pick a photo that reminds you of a moment in time, place or people that makes/make you feel powerful. This might be from that time you completed a charity run, a holiday when you felt utterly free and on top of the world, or a snap with family and friends that floods your heart with joy. Get it printed, frame it, and hang it somewhere you'll see every time you're getting ready to leave the house. Then, as you're about to head out and face the day, take a second to drink it in and go back to that place: You're ready.
INVEST IN HEALTH-ENHANCING PURCHASES
When you are able to make some splurges, start with the ones that are truly going to make a difference to your life and wellbeing – like an amazing mattress. They don't come cheap, but quality sleep is so important. Switching to a really well-made mattress with the right level of support – no more tossing and turning trying to get comfortable or waking up with knotty shoulders and sore hips – can literally change your life.
