Reboot your life in just five minutes a day ENVISAGE YOUR LIFE GOAL

Big changes can start with a few small steps – these quick daily tricks are refreshingly simple

Don’t be put off from making positive changes because you feel you simply don’t have the time. Instead of giving your life a major overhaul, break the adjustments into small, manageable chunks and you’re more likely to succeed, says Joanne Mallon, author of new book, Change Your Life In 5 Minutes. She claims you can make life-changing pivots based on your personal choices – rather than reactions – to send you soaring in the right direction. Get ready for your (speedy) self-transformation by alternating between these seven simple exercises each day…

TRY THE 5-4-3-2-1 METHOD

Research by the

University of Sheffield revealed a three-fold increase in cases of anxiety and depression in lockdown. If you’re suffering, try the 5-4-3-2-1 method to shift the focus away from your overloaded mind to your body.

Start by identifying five things you can see. Then list four things you can hear, three things you can feel, two things you can smell and one thing you can taste. The aim is to bring your attention to the present rather than possible “what ifs”. Try this exercise for the first time when you’re feeling calm, as a rehearsal for when you need it. Then feel those anxieties ebb away.

This trick helps you realise what it might take to transform the life you have into the life you want.

Ask yourself, “If I was operating at

100% confidence, what would I be doing differently?”

Think of yourself as your own life coach and focus on the best way to get to your goal. You don’t have to have it all plotted out, just the first step or two. For example, if it’s your job you want to change, think about updating your CV. Commit to it – when will you do it? What do you need to make it happen? Then tell someone your plan so you can’t back out.

If you’re lucky enough to have outside space at home, you’ve probably passed plenty of time during the pandemic enjoying some gardening. Apparently, last year’s lockdown inspired three million people to get stuck in – and gardening and getting close to nature makes many of us happier and healthier. Here are some top trends for 2021 to help make your gardens look blooming great.

GROW YOUR OWN

TREND

2

The freshest fruit and vegetables come from your own patch. They are free of chemicals and full of flavour – you’ll never buy supermarket strawberries again! Last year, #growyourown, #organicgardening and #vegetablegarden were the most-used gardening hashtags. Whether working with a windowsill, balcony, patio or lawn, it’s easy to grow something edible. Beginners will have success with potatoes, chillies, tomatoes, herbs and strawberries.