1. Eat More Whole Foods
You know the saying, "You are what you eat?" Well it's essentially true. If you are fueling your body with whole, unprocessed foods, you will physically look like it. The same goes for if you're pounding down a family-sized bag of chips and slugging back a two-liter bottle of soda every day. Your appearance does not hide what food you eat. Plus, you know the sluggish, greasy feeling you get when you choose the processed, empty calories options. Fill up on nutrients!
2. Hydrate
Drink at least eight, eight ounce glasses of water each day. Half your body make up is water. You'll feel refreshed, and I promise your skin will thank you for it.
3. Wake Up Earlier
Seriously. Wake up 30 minutes earlier each day. Listen to the birds chirp, and take your time to get ready for the day. Use this time to prepare a healthy meal for breakfast and put together some snacks, instead of grabbing a Pop-Tart and an energy drink.
4. Sleep
I know it's challenging in our fast-paced, busy American lifestyle to find time to get an adequate amount of sleep. But seriously—get at least eight hours each night. You'll feel energized and be able to concentrate better in class or work.
5. Smile
Make a conscious effort to smile more often each day. It is so easy to get caught up in stress and worry that we forget to relax and enjoy life. Studies show that you can easily boost your happiness by simply turning up the corners of your mouth. Now go try it.
6. Get Outside
Spend some time each day in the fresh air. No, walking from your car into a building doesn't count. Go for a 30 minute walk, or take a book and sit on the grass. The vitamin D is key to a happy, healthy life (even through the clouds).
7. Talk with Family and Friends
Humans need contact with other humans. We rely on our family and friends for support, advice, and comfort. Make an effort to call someone for a few minutes each day, just to hear their voice.
8. Learn Something New
Learn about something new each day. If you're bored, research the first thing you see in front of you. Knowledge takes you to great distances and improves the length of your life. You can never be overeducated.
9. Compliment Someone
Give a genuine compliment to at least one person each day. Going out of your way to make someone else feel good about themselves is a sure-fire way to feel better about yourself, as well as make the recipient's day.
