1. EXERCISE DOING SOMETHING YOU LOVE

Exercise shouldn’t be a chore. If you hate swimming, don’t drag yourself to the pool.

If you hate running, don’t force yourself to hit the pavement.

The key to exercise is doing something you love — that way you will look forward to it and be less likely to find excuses not to do it.

Maybe the gym isn’t for you. Take your workout alfresco, or sign up for a new online class or program that you can fit in at home.

Once you’ve found what you love, you’ll prioritise it in your day because you not only enjoy it, but you feel so good when you’re done.

2. GET UP EARLY

Not everyone is a morning person, but we can change that if we want to.

It is so worth it.

Most people are much more productive in the morning, so if you can tick off a few things you’ll be in a much better frame of mind to tackle the rest of the day.

Personally, I need to exercise first thing. That way I know I’ve got it done and won’t stress about fitting it in around everything else that I need to do later on.

3. HAVE A NIGHT ROUTINE

Getting up early is important and having a routine at the other end of the day complements that nicely.

If possible, switch off all devices at least two hours before you go to bed.

Take some time to meditate — even just five minutes will help you wind down from the day.

Get to bed early.

It’s so common not to prioritise sleep, but not getting enough has such a negative affect on your whole body and wellbeing.

You could also use the evenings to do some prep for the next day to ease the pressure, for example, make the kids’ lunches ahead of time.

4. DRINK MORE WATER

Consuming a minimum of eight glasses (2L) every day will do wonders for your body and also help reduce other potentially unhelpful habits (for example, snacking too much and reaching for sugary foods).

5. CHOOSE YOUR SUPPORT TEAM

Surround yourself with friends who understand your challenges.

Having friends who you can really talk to about obstacles you’re experiencing, who sympathise or empathise with you, makes facing them a little easier.

Being able to share how you’re feeling and what you’re experiencing is so important for your mental health.

Too many people bottle things up so as not to be a burden on anyone, only to find themselves depressed and struggling with life.