Unlimited food and beverages, the most sinful desserts and family and friends coming and going indicate that the most joyful season has arrived.
Christmas holiday brings happiness and warmth to every body but it is not without its downside. Toby Robbins will help us thrive during this season (and perhaps each coming holiday season moving forward).
Here are his tips:
On avoiding the winter workout rut
Staying in and keeping yourself warm is rather tempting but it is all the more important to sweat especially since this is the time when we tend to forget to watch our food consumption and those carb intake could skyrocket in no time. How can it be done?
Join a league: Local recreational sports league is a good place to start. The good old gym may get boring but with other people encouraging you and you encourage in return will make it easier.
Hold yourself accountable: Nobody else is when it comes to our health and well being. The key is to just start and keep at it.
Step out of the ordinary: Try something new. Anything new and out of the ordinary is exciting and you can easily get inspired. It will also give you fresh perspective. Try yoga or boxing. Another bonus is meeting new people!
Measure it: Monitor your resting heart rate, body fat percentage, and your progress in general. Seeing good results will inspire you to keep moving.
Set goals: Realistic goals are really inspiring because it makes you feel accomplished. For example, start with a brisk walk and then progress to a jog, etc. Small goals will make up the big goals you can set your mind to later on.
On saving your relationship from holiday stress
What we want to avoid during this season-perhaps especially this season -is creating distance, disagreements and disconnection with our partner. We want to support our partner along the way. Here's how:
Recognize stress symptoms: Men are not as open or as expressive as women. Therefore, you watch out for the symptoms that could make him/her explode. Put yourself in his/her shoes and imagine how you'd react in a given situation. It is easier to relate this way. Show love and support-this may be a jolly season but financial toll my creep in, too.
Show compassion: We know how it feels to be stressed out, regardless of the reason. Instead of attacking our partner, show compassion and understanding. It will go a long way.
Open the lines of communication: This is of utmost importance. Show your partner that you are willing to listen anytime. Ask how you can be of help or what you can do to make him/her feel better.
On financial detoxing
One cause of woe and worry is the financial burden we encounter during this time of the year. It happens to all of how. Here's how to detox.
Create a spending plan: Budget; consider what you NEED first and then stick to it. It may be difficult at the beginning but you will be rewarded. Think financial freedom.
Determine your PYF Percentage: PYF means "Pay Yourself First"-you have to think how much you are going to save for the future before you make any other expenses.
Find a fiduciary partner: This goes a long way as fiduciary puts your needs about his own and is legally obligated to protect your interests.
Sell your crappy mutual funds: Research shows that it is just not worth it. Perhaps it could be the first duty of your fiduciary partner. Opt for low-cost index funds instead.
Know your risk tolerance: It varies for each individual. What you can do is find an asset allocation so you can sleep well at night.
Live abundantly: That is the main purpose of it all. Give freely and you will see the world change right in front of you.
There you have it! Enjoy the holidays and return to normal life happy and stress-free! Thrive!
