5 Ways to Challenge Yourself This Year

As adults, it’s easy to get into a sometimes predictable everyday routine of work and taking care of our family. Plus, it’s easy to live our lives in our comfort zone. This year, challenge yourself to stretch and try new things and ideas. It will remind you that you can still grow and change even as a busy adult.

Challenge #1: Take more time for wellness. As we get older, we have to intentionally work to take better care of ourselves. Focus on getting into an exercise routine, eating a diet full of whole foods, and drinking more water. Most of us need to do a better job in at least one of these areas. Pick one area to start with and add on as you need. Take a new class at the gym and commit to going regularly. Make a meal plan, grocery shop, and stick to it. Start carrying your refillable water bottle with you and keep track of how much you are actually drinking. You will notice a difference in how you feel, and you will be modeling habits of wellness for your family just by taking care of yourself.

Challenge #2: Get more sleep. This is another form of wellness that deserves its own challenge. Sleep is an essential function that allows our body to recharge and function properly. Sleep aids us in regulating our emotions and helps our bodies stay healthier. In spite of this, many of us don’t make it a priority. Oftentimes, we tell ourselves we are going to sleep more, but it’s hard to actually commit. Start by setting a bedtime for yourself. Then turn off screens well in advance of that time so you are better able to go to sleep. Healthy adults should aim for between 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night.

Challenge #3: Read more books. As we get older and busier, we forget about this simple pleasure of life. Reading is so good for you that it decreases stress, helps improve memory, and even aids in a better night's sleep. Need some ideas of how you can get back into a reading habit? Read 60 Reading Challenge Ideas for adults and kids in 2022 for a variety of ways to challenge yourself to read more books. Then head to the local library and get started.

Challenge #4: Try a new activity. Certainly as we get older, it’s easy to stay in our comfort zone. Intentionally research a new activity you want to try. Invite family or friends to participate with you. My family has recently started rock wall climbing, and it has been a fun and bonding experience. In addition, friends have wanted to come and try it out too which makes it even more fun.

Challenge #5: Give back to your community. Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community, but most of us do not make the time to actually do it. Pick a cause you care about and show up. Donate blood, help out at a local animal shelter, or participate in a food drive. Challenge yourself to give back and it will make a difference in your life and in the life of others.

What challenge are you going to take this year? Pick one and stick with it. You will notice the benefits and want to continue.

"Challenge yourself; it’s the only path that leads to growth."- Morgan Freeman

Jenn writes at her blog healthyhappyimpactful.com. She’s a mom of three looking to learn and grow. Check it out if you love helpful tips on health, family, and personal growth.