Kickstart the new year: 7 productive habits to adopt in 2024

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Ah, the fresh start of a new year! For South Africans, summer’s still sizzlin’, and the promise of possibilities hangs thick in the air. But let’s be honest, those resolutions can fizzle faster than a braai in the rain. Don’t worry,  this year, we’re ditching the pressure and embracing sustainable habits that suit our vibrant, sun-kissed lifestyle.

Image courtesy of Jill Wellington. Published on: February 1st, 2016. Source: Pexel.com

Embrace the early sunrise 

Swap the snooze button for the sunrise! Picture this: golden light peeking through the sky, a steaming cup of coffee in hand, and a quiet moment to set your intentions for the day. Even 15 minutes can work wonders for focus and energy.

Image courtesy of Ella Olsso. Published on: November 27th, 2018. Source: Pexel.com

Make “lekker lunch” one of your new habits

Ditch the boring desk lunches! Pack a rainbow salad bursting with local fruits and veggies, whip up a quick bunny chow with leftover braai meat, or grab a samoosa from the friendly gogo down the street. Fuel your body with delicious, healthy goodness to power through the afternoon.

Befriend the boondoggle as one of your habits

Yes, I said boondoggle! Schedule downtime like you schedule meetings. Whether it’s a midday stroll along the beach, a braai with friends under the stars, or curling up with a good book on your stoep, prioritise activities that refresh your mind and spirit. A rested you is a productive you!

Turn ubuntu into your workflow

As South Africans, we understand the power of community. Partner up with a colleague, join a virtual study group, or connect with fellow entrepreneurs online. Sharing goals, challenges, and successes can keep you motivated and accountable.

Embrace the YOLO spirit 

Sometimes, the best way to be productive is to step away from the grind. Plan a weekend getaway to Kruger National Park, explore a hidden gem in your own province, or simply get lost in a good braai conversation with loved ones. Remember, taking a break isn’t lazy, it’s refuelling your creativity and passion.

Image courtesy of Pixabay. Published on: March 20th, 2017. Source: Pexel.com

Let tech be your sidekick 

Ditch the paper to-do lists and embrace South Africa’s tech scene! Explore local productivity apps, connect with a virtual assistant, or utilise time management tools to streamline your workflow. Let tech be your sidekick, not your overlord.

Image courtesy of cottonbro studio. Published on: November 3rd, 2019. Source: Pexel.com

Make Celebrate the small wins one of your habits

Don’t wait for the big bang to celebrate. Acknowledge your small wins – that early morning jog, finishing a presentation or mastering a new recipe. Celebrate with a rooibos iced tea, a slice of melktert, or a joyful shout – because small victories pave the way for big achievements.

So, there you have it, Mzansi friends! Ditch the pressure, embrace the sunshine, and adopt these productive habits to make 2024 your most vibrant, productive year yet. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection, so take it one boep at a time, and remember, you’ve got this!

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