New Year’s resolutions are hard to keep. We’ve all made decisions about how we will improve our lives only to fall back into old patterns by February or March. And, truth be told, we’re often doomed before we even begin. This is partly because we focus on an outcome instead of a process, like losing 30 pounds instead of feeling better in our clothes. Our inability to stick to resolutions also has to do with how extreme we make the resolution. For example, someone who never exercises will have a hard time sustaining a resolution that asks them to workout for an hour five days a week. If you want to see changes in the new year, here are five resolutions that are inspirational, motivational, and sustainable!

Resolution #1 Get Better Sleep

Have you ever noticed how sleep tends to be considered more of a luxury than a necessity? Unfortunately, that kind of thinking — while often perpetuated by society and culture — can lead to physical and mental health issues. Take back control of your nightly slumber and you’re likely to see an improvement in productivity, mood, blood pressure and immunity. That means prioritizing healthy sleep habits will boost your overall mental and physical health. Have you endured many sleepless nights in 2018 and not sure where to start? Look no further than your mattress. If you’re sleeping on a bed that is more than seven years old, it’s past time to make a change.

Resolution #2 Prioritize Self-Care

Making sure your needs are a priority is the foundation to preventing burnout, managing stress and handling responsibilities. All too often in our busy schedules we push aside the things we need so we can tackle the things others need. Gliding down that slippery slope leads to unhealthy habits and poor coping mechanisms. This is especially true for people who have recently suffered a major loss. Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging and devastating situations we face, and we all face it at one time or another. If you lost a loved on in 2018 and are struggling with the grief, consider an online bereavement program as a part of your self-care routine.

Resolution #3 Exercise More Regularly

Physical activity is a great way to improve multiple areas of your life. Exercise has a positive ripple effect in both your mental and physical health. When you make the time to exercise moderately for about 30 minutes three to four days a week, you will likely notice physical improvements, like increased energy and better sleep. But exercise isn’t just about shrinking your waistline. It helps manage depression, anxiety and stress, while improving focus and attention.

Resolution #4 Eat More Wholesome Meals

Cooking can be a time-consuming chore, especially for people who aren’t interested or adventurous in the kitchen. But if you are looking for resolutions that boost your whole health in 2019, your kitchen is the place to start. There are several effective ways to make eating healthy easier. You can start a meal prep routine, where you take one day to cook and store healthy meals for the whole week. You can also try out a subscription to a meal delivery service, where you’ll get recipes and fresh ingredients delivered straight to your door.

Resolution #5 Let It Go

Ruminating on stressful or hurtful situations won’t fix any challenges in your life. It’s hard, but not impossible, to practice letting go. When you let go of attachments to certain expectations, you’ll feel less disappointed with outcomes you can’t control. Letting go also helps you develop more confidence in who you are, instead of fixating on who you think you are supposed to be. While letting go does require a level of acknowledgment and acceptance, it doesn’t mean accepting a toxic relationship or a harmful situation. Letting go means you understand that you deserve better than the negative narratives and relationships you find yourself in.

When it comes to making life-improving resolutions, think about the state of mind you want to cultivate. The outcomes will naturally develop, and you’ll feel less overwhelmed and more satisfied. Here’s to a healthful 2019!