During our day-to-day life, many of us have developed lifestyle attachments or vices which are no longer beneficial to us. Whether it’s costing us too much money (like an excessive denim collection), or simply bad for our health or enjoyment (like binge drinking… though it does have its moments), I believe we give more and more thought to having a lifestyle makeover as we grow older.
Have you been thinking about making a major change in your life? Believe me, there’s no better time than right now. Maybe you’re unhappy about your group of friends… maybe you have some lingering legal affairs to work out, which – by the way – is completely manageable. There are plenty of organizations with experience helping people get their legal affairs in order. Whatever your reason, big or small, making changes to your lifestyle can greatly improve your quality of life.
Now, everyone has different criteria for their lifestyle makeover, but I would like to share a few ideas of my own that are often overlooked and exceptionally important. The best part is that they’re all easy fixes.
Is Your Will Up To Date?
Making official the people in your life who you wish to benefit from your passing might sound daunting and permanent; but drawing up or updating a Will gives you peace of mind that your loved ones can make the most of what you give them. Even if you don’t have anything you feel is worth bequeathing at this point in time, making a Will now hel ps lighten the load of legal responsibility for you.
When Was The Last Time You Reviewed Your Insurance Coverage?
Whether it’s your car cover, home insurance or even a life insurance policy on your own life and livelihood, you could save money and enjoy additional features by taking the time to review and accordingly adjust your plans in case there is any money to be saved by switching or renewing. Check one of the many price comparison sites to give you some indication of how much you can save – and be sure to arrange a chat with an independent adviser if you have any questions.
Are you Saving Any Money?
The money you save from holding back on that costly vice will work even harder for you if you invest in the right savings plan. Whether you plan to do something with the money yourself in later life, or are even hoping to help your young ones get a better head start on education or their living circumstances, a good rule of thumb is 10% of your wages – put this aside in the bank as a bare minimum and soon you’ll have a good amount saved for a rainy day. Find more info online or speak with a financial adviser to get options on savings accounts such as ISAs.
Ever Thought About Giving up a Vice?
And speaking of saving money, there might just be something in it for you if you can cut down on something which you’re spending too much on. Whether it’s a pack of cigarettes or a cup of expensive coffee per day; there are alternatives which will not only save you money in the short term but could have enormous benefits to your health in the long run. If you’re looking to become smoke-free, ask your doctor for more information on how best to go about quitting.
I hope I’ve given you a few ideas, but the main thing here is to actually think about your life and make changes based on what YOU are unhappy with. Maybe you’ve already covered these, maybe you haven’t, but perhaps they’ll inspire you to switch things up a bit. I moved across the country to change my life, but a lifestyle makeover doesn’t require moving to a distant land… just a bit of introspection and then action.
Good advice but what changes have you made to your lifestyle and how?
I made two changes that I believe had a profound impact on my quality of life.
1. I stopped drinking to get wasted. When I drink now, it’s with the intention of enjoying the drink, not pounding them back endlessly to get blasted.
2. I spend time with people that bring me up, not down. It’s too easy to fall in with people that are always negative. I avoid that whenever possible now.