2016 Resolutions

'New year new me'... Isn't that the phrase on everybody's lips at the moment - mainly describing how they are throwing themselves scrupulously head first into diets and exercise. The post-Christmas detox is certainly something that I have bought into for as long as I can remember as it is the perfect opportunity to overhaul your lifestyle in the aim of achieving that perfect summer body after winter indulgence. But this year, my new years resolutions are not (for once) centered around going to the gym five times a week or cutting out carbs for as long as possible - I have long given up with the 'quick-fix' diets and realised that the best way to be happy with your body and self is moderation and balance (albeit, a lot easier said than done). Instead, my resolutions are small changes to my daily routine that have already making a big difference..

Cleanse, tone, moisturise...

I have spent (wasted?) a lot of money on skincare over the past year, buying into the latest crazes and believing everyone when they claim to have found the 'miracle' product. But when asked if I cleansed, toned and moisturized twice a day recently, I realized that I had been neglecting the simplest of steps in a skincare routine, and a routine that people swear by in keeping their skin youthful and glowing. Slathering on creams and gels is all good and well but if you are not doing the basics, you're missing a trick. I headed straight to Kiehls and bought their Ultra Facial Toner and Cleanser, along with a small bottle of the Creme De Corps moisturiser. I noticed the improvement in my skin almost immediately. It felt a lot softer, cleaner and I love waking up with skin still enriched with moisture - especially as I have quite dry skin usually. You can't beat the classics! 

Ah, bonjour...

I like to think I'm not too bad when it comes to languages having studied them a lot at school. However, after recent holidays to France and Spain, I've had to admit that my foreign language skills leave a lot to be desired. I really want to change this as having another language on your CV is a huge asset and while I have some time on my hands, this is the ideal time to do it. The app Duolingo is my new best friend and is an amazing (and free) way to be productive on your lunch-break.

More H20?

The only way I'm really consistent in making sure I drink atleast some water throughout the day is by having a water bottle with me. Whether it's investing in one of those fancy, strange looking bottles that claim to make water taste better (,,,?) or picking up a 50p Evian in Tesco, you're a lot more likely to drink it if you can pick it up and take it with you. I'm slowly trying to increase my intake of water and replacing some of the many coffees at work.

Push yourself

I'm often a culprit of getting settled in a routine that is very comfortable and somewhat unexciting just because it is easier and what I'm used to. Now I'm starting to realise that, although relaxing and doing nothing is vital sometimes, pushing yourself to do new things can make such a difference to happiness levels. Saying yes when you'd usually say I don't really feel like it, in my experience, usually ends well and leaving you grateful you agreed in the first place. It also makes you appreciate the time you do have to yourself a lot more. 

What are your New Years resolutions?