After two long years of economic and health instability, we are finally making moves in a post-COVID world. This year, we can achieve a strong and successful 2022 by prioritizing our health and finances. Although COVID-19 still poses a threat to health due to its multiple variants and contagiousness, we can overcome it by incorporating healthy habits. Here are the 5 most essential tasks to guarantee a happier and healthier 2022.

1. Make Money Moves

As the economy begins to stabilize after a long period of uncertainty, it is crucial to strengthen your financial situation in any way you can. One of the key financial moves to make is to track and budget all your regular spendings. Make sure to track your spending by creating a journal, keeping receipts, and using a money management app. Properly monitoring your spending will allow you to gain a holistic view of your finances. You’ll be able to check how much money you spend on groceries, restaurants, clothing, and more. Additionally, make sure to use this as an opportunity to establish an emergency fund for you and your loved ones to safeguard you against any unexpected event or circumstance.

2. Review Current Insurance Plans

As we enter a new year, it is of major importance to examine your current health and life insurance plans. Life changes quickly so you must make sure that you have all the best plans for your present situation and goals. Looking to start a new job this year? If so, it is a good idea to thoroughly check the health and life insurance policies that your new workplace offers. One of the most common misbeliefs about employer policies is that these policies cover all your needs. However, most workplace plans do not cover enough to satisfy your current needs and goals. With this in mind, it is best to acquire your own health and life insurance plans to make sure you have the right resources and assets to lead a healthy life.

3. Evaluate Your Spending Habits

The right time to reevaluate your current spending habits is now. Start the year off strong by examining your expenses. Ask yourself: Am I paying for unnecessary services? Seemingly minor monthly expenses may be overlooked in your balance; however, these expenses can pile up into large amounts when ignored. To lessen the risk of paying for services you may not be using anymore, make a list of all the current services you utilize in your household. Check your subscription lists again and unsubscribe from those you are not regularly making use of. These subscriptions can include streaming services or in-game purchase plans. Cutting out these expenses from your budget will allow you to focus on more important aspects you need to spend on, such as rent, groceries, and utilities.

4. Keep Your Mind & Body Active

Keeping your mind and body active is essential to staying in good health this year. Workdays can be long and demanding. To strengthen your physical and mental health, it is important to set some time off for yourself to recuperate and re-energize. Start small by taking little breaks while working to go on short walks. This will help you get your heart rate up and take in more sun and vitamin D. On the weekends, think about going on hikes and meeting up with friends. Take classes on things you enjoy whether it be recreational or exercise. Your work life is important but do not forget to put yourself first.

5. Eat Healthier

In the age of COVID-19, looking after your health should be a top priority. The combination of healthy eating habits with keeping your mind and body active will allow you to boost your overall health and wellness. Start building your meal plan today by evaluating your current eating habits. Ask yourself: Am I eating too much fast food? Do I order food from delivery platforms more than 2 times a week? If you said “Yes” to both of these questions, you are negatively impacting your health and your wallet. Regularly buying groceries and cooking for yourself daily will not only lessen the burden on your finances but also help you lead a better lifestyle. Worried that cooking and cleaning take too much time after a busy workday? Check out these quick and easy ways to whip up your dinner while looking out for your health.

Key Takeaways

Start 2022 strong by keeping your health and finances in check. Those who are able to properly manage their finances and work-life balance will be able to experience a happier and healthier year. The earlier you start establishing good health and spending habits, the sooner you will be able to achieve a successful 2022.