Following the enactment of London’s third lockdown given shortly after the New Year, I am sure that there are undoubtedly many people, like myself, who feel as if we are all stuck in a real life ‘Groundhog Day’ living countless repetitive days that leave many of us feeling unaccomplished and stagnant. There are also I am sure, lots of people who have decided on a range of New Year's resolutions that they are hoping to accomplish by the end of 2021, for instance possibly the generic ‘get fit and lose weight’ or ‘get more organized and tidy up more’. I, however, who have no incentive to exercise or get any cleaner, have challenged myself to merge the two issues together and as an outcome I have decided to do at least one thing every day that makes me happy or feel good, which hopefully will aid me in ridding the negative and repetitive nature of day-to-day life.   

One of my personal favourite habits I have gotten into is reading part of a book for an hour before I sleep. This has benefitted me in a variety of ways, for instance, it has eliminated an hour of screen time that I would usually have spent being very unproductive watching episodes on Netflix or aimlessly scrolling through Tik-Tok! To make it a different experience each day, I suggest you change between a fiction book, a poetry book and my personal favourite an inspirational or motivational book. Currently, I am reading Emma by Jane Austen which I am thoroughly enjoying as it also allows me to have open discussions with my family and friends about the key themes of the novel. In terms of poetry books, I alternate between ‘A Book I'll Never Write’ by Devon D. Eaton and the No1 bestseller ‘Milk and Honey’ by Rupi Kaur. I highly recommend all the books I have mentioned as they have become favourites of mine as they are beautifully written and while reading through the pages I feel as if it brings a sense peace for me, something I find is vital for an end of the day activity. There are many other activities/hobbies, however, that would work if you’re not an avid reader like me and would prefer something more relaxing for your daily act. For example, there are many online yoga classes or guided meditation sessions that you could begin your day with to give yourself a bright and fresh start. Also, if you want to combine reading and the more relaxing alternatives, there is a book called, 'All you need is less' by Vicki Vrint which I love as it gives practical tips and ideas on how to lead a simpler yet happier lifestyle. 

Hopefully, if everyone decides to attempt a little something new or fun each day, we will all be able to persevere and get through the currently very challenging times and come out the other end a much happier and healthy version of ourselves!