Happy Spring BostonMan readers!
When spring comes around we all start to hear the phrases “spring cleaning” or “spring improvements.” I know that personally, when spring rolls in I get an itch to begin some home improvement projects, as well as purchase a whole new wardrobe for warmer weather among other things.
Improvement means “to better something.” Maybe it is the educator in me, but I truly believe that all humans can continue to better themselves and evolve in order to grow and reach their full potential in life.
The term “spring improvements” -to some- can be overwhelming. For example, are we improving everything? Are we literally redoing our living space, spending thousands on clothes, and going on a juice fast to get our bodies ready for summer? Of course not!
I think it is important to not view spring improvements as a New Year’s resolution. People often make resolutions to change something about themselves. Usually it is an area they view to be negative and they resolve to make a positive evolution.
For instance, as Type A and organized as I am, I tend to be an average of ten minutes late for everything. I still have not figured out why so if any readers have some tips for me, I do welcome them!
Therefore, this is a resolution I tend to make every January. (And continue to fail miserably by the way.)
On the other hand, a spring improvement is to take something we are fond of, or feel positively about, and enhance it, making it even better.
For example, I love my townhouse, but disliked my kitchen cabinets. They were a wood color that was slightly outdated. I decided my spring improvement project would be to have them painted white. A fresh look that did not break the bank. I literally feel like I “freshened up” my kitchen for spring. Are you catching the drift BostonMan readers?
I think to feel “whole” and “happy” living life, we should focus on the following ‘Core Four’ areas for personal spring improvements: physical, mental, living space, and finances.
Here are some sure fire suggestions on how to manage these and get you vibing in your most positive place before summer 2024 rolls around.
- Physical: Most people I know prefer to be in their best shape during the summer months. Well, spring is a good time to begin this journey. I suggest committing to an exercise program, even if it is simply walking 30 minutes per day five days a week. If you are an avid exerciser, perhaps you mix up your workouts or fitness venue where you work out. For example, I was feeling slightly in a fitness rut with the same old classes I love to take, so I tried out a few classes at a new studio and can already see positive results. Sometimes your body needs a mix up. Of course, physical improvements should also include getting more sleep, drinking more water, and consuming a balanced diet. Pick one area this spring and go for it!
- Mental: I think any of us can be robotic during most weeks as we get through work and life. We do not really stop and think about our mental health unless we feel depressed or ready to snap (for lack of better words).
In my opinion, this improvement should take priority over the other areas because if we are not in our best shape mentally, the rest crumbles.
We can improve our mental health by reducing stress. If this means saying no to people to have more time to relax, so be it. It may mean going to therapy sessions, ending relationships, leaving your high pressure job, or avoiding toxic environments. Make a list of everything and anyone that causes you stress. Tackle this list one by one this spring and analyze how you can eliminate the stressors in your life.
- Living Space: Do you loathe your living space? Do you have options to move? Is rent sucking you dry? Can you downsize or rent in a less expensive area? Can you paint to update rooms in your home? Perhaps something simple like buying new bathroom towels makes you feel more relaxed at home.
Having trouble sleeping at night? What if you purchase a new comforter set?
One of the most important things you can do to improve your living space is to declutter. Your living space should ultimately be your sanctuary. The place you feel most comfortable. Clutter just makes everything stressful and makes people feel high strung and disorganized.
If your living quarters are chaotic, I highly recommend tackling room by room. Analyze how you feel the first week everything is cleaned and in its place. I guarantee you will feel a sense of calmness that leaves you refreshed and ready.
- Finances: This is an area that most people can strive to improve. Spring is an excellent time to assess finances and make improvements.
We have paid off our holiday shopping debts, hopefully, and many people receive a tax refund around this time.
You can improve finances by setting up and sticking to a budget. I have a grocery budget this year. I am Italian and we love food. Hence, I definitely go overboard with the food shopping so this spring I am trying my best to stay within a certain budget to be able to save more.
Set up another savings account. Even if you only save $20 a month, it is $20 a month you were not saving in winter. Invest because investing money grows your portfolio over time. Pay off any debts you may have. Paying off debt is always an 100% improvement.
I recently read a quote that stated: “Ask yourself if what you’re doing today is getting closer to where you want to be tomorrow.” That resonated with me. Think of your life dreams. Think about what you have attained so far and what you still have to strive for. Then, think about what improvements you can do to help you live your best life.
***
Tiffany Giannato is a mother, fashionista, stylist, and shopping addict! Her blogs, pictorials, and fashion tips are aimed towards empowering both women and men to look and feel their best regardless of age. Her “you can be as trendy at 61 as you were at 21” mantra has taken Boston by storm! A true Italian, Tiffany believes family, love, food, and style are always the keys to happiness!
