Two of the most popular goals that people resolve to achieve each year are saving more money and shedding extra pounds. So, how can we get physically and financially fit at the same time?
1. Start tracking: The first step is to monitor your health and finances, closely and regularly. It’ll help you check your progress, re-evaluate priorities and analyze behavioral patterns that are helpful or need to be changed.
2. Identify your triggers: Maybe you stress eat or go on a shopping spree whenever you feel bored. Notice the triggers that nudge you to overindulge. Next, swap those old habits with healthier choices.
3. Be mindful: Try to be more proactive and mindful every time you eat, exercise or buy something. Eat nutritious food and take time to savor each bite, get adequate sleep and practice walking, meditation, etc. For your financial well-being, establish a monthly budget and stick to it.
4. Clean it up: Purge your pantry. Replace unhealthy foods with healthier alternatives like no-bake bars, dried fruit and roasted nuts. Similarly, to clean up your finances, organize your paperwork to easily access and manage financial information, automate bill payments and pay off your debt.
5. Practice moderation: Whether it’s shopping or comfort food, cutting out completely is a bad idea. Treat yourself occasionally, without overindulging. For instance, every time you splurge, put the same amount of money in your savings account to avoid overspending. Similarly, if you’re eating out, opt for healthier food options and stop when you feel full.