FOR many, the beginning of a new year brings with it resolutions to increase their personal wellbeing.

While embarking on a journey of personal improvement can be a challenge, Positive Psychology and Wellbeing Practitioner, Kerri Rodley, has provided tips for getting started.

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“Finding time to work on your wellbeing should be a high priority,” said Kerri.

“If you don’t, who will?”

She recommends that you make space in your day to switch off – even for a few minutes – to relax and rejuvenate yourself.

“Do something you enjoy every day,” she said.

“Take time out and do something that makes you happy each and every day.

“It doesn’t matter how small: a cup of coffee in the sun, a read of your favourite book, a bath, walking the dog – whatever!

“Connect with people – whether it’s on the phone, online or in person – a quick chat with a friend or family member could make all the difference to both of you.

“It is a scientific fact that connecting with others helps reduce stress.”

Kerri also recommends spending time in the natural world.

“Get some fresh air/exercise in nature,” she said.

“Take some time out and enjoy the nature around you.

“Exercising outside creates greater feelings of positive thinking and happiness than working out indoors.

“A study found that people who engaged in physical activity outdoors had 1.5 times increased positive mental health and decreased mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.

“Port Stephens is full of nature!”

Trying something new can also make a difference, according to Kerri.

“Try something new – whether it’s taking up a new sport, finding a new walking route or getting artistic with activities like drawing and painting – find an activity you can look forward to and concentrate on.

“Joining a class or group can help you connect with new people too.”

Kerri’s final tip is to practise gratitude through journaling.

“Gratitude forces you to look for the positive, rather than the negative, aspects in your daily life.

“Writing it down invites your brain to relive that situation, which doubles the positive impact it has on your life.”

Fiona Brown of Youtopia Wellbeing recommends setting SMART Goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound).

“Only 20 percent of people set goals, and only a third of those goals are achieved.

“Sadly, that’s so much unused potential, unmet dreams and many people accepting mediocre lives.

“It’s people’s perception of potential challenges that exist between now and their goal and the belief that it takes a lot of effort to overcome them.”

Fiona believes coaching can make a big difference in achieving set targets.

“Most of the obstacles are a matter of mindset and that can be changed easily with the support of coaching.

“As the saying goes – ‘If you think you can or think you can’t, either way you’re right’.

“Simple strategies plus accountability support from a coach can fast-track the achievement of goals and get you living the life you want and deserve much sooner than you realise,” she said.

By Marian SAMPSON