Exercise helps in nourishing skin cells with essential nutrients and oxygen by increasing blood flow [Courtesy]

Glowing skin

Exercise helps in nourishing skin cells with essential nutrients and oxygen by increasing blood flow. It is like nature's own energy drink. The skin is filled with blood vessels that run close to the surface.

These vessels dilate when you work out to give the skin a healthy glow. Research also links working out to increased production of collagen; a protein that aids in skin elasticity and firmness. You will not just feel younger, you will look younger.

Exercise contributes to a greater sense of well-being. It is not too late to tap into the benefits of exercise if you have not been active previously. Start now. By the time the year ends, you will look a year (or more) younger. A change in diet is also essential to maintain your new lifestyle.

Focus on a healthy mind to find happiness

Most of the time, we attach happiness to delusions. "I will be happier when I own this car, not that", or when something happens. Social media pressure and unattainable expectations only make the "journey to happiness" worse.

Happiness should not be a reaction to the present circumstances. It should not rely upon the acquisition of something new. Unhappy people look for happiness in their next purchase, relationship, physical appearance, or job. It is easy for unhappy people to shift the responsibility for obstacles to other people or circumstances. Blame is a dangerous habit.

It eliminates motivation and keeps us in a constant waiting period, for someone else to come and solve problems or remove the obstacles for us.

 Focus on a healthy mind to find happiness [Courtesy]

Make commitments you can keep

Social involvement is essential for a healthy mind. Manage your stress levels by creating a commitment tracking system as you manage your day-to-day activities. Avoid volunteering for tasks or events that you may not have time for based on your workload.

One of the major causes of stress is the failure of keeping up with commitments. Just worrying about the consequences creates anxiety and unhappiness. We are sometimes tempted to look for shortcuts or half measures to apply and save face.

These mostly end up backfiring, creating more stress. When honouring a commitment, consider respect, communication and productive effort to avoid misunderstandings. Should the unexpected happen, it will be received with acceptance.

Keep off negativity

Toxic environments and relationships have a profound impact on your psyche. Avoid unhealthy relationships and gossip and be part of the culture that values integrity and positivity.

Be more open-minded

Regular feedback from your superiors and even clients is something you should welcome or even seek when it does not come as often as you would prefer.

Positive criticism will make you feel valued and will also highlight gaps that may have been overlooked. This positive boost in morale will bring happiness to the workplace.

Be more social

Make valuable friends at work and network at social events. The type of friendship that goes beyond the workplace.

We spend the better part of our days with our coworkers. Being able to build excellent working relationships is one of the hallmarks of great work and social life balance.

Do not be afraid of conflict

Conflict can be scary, mainly because the repercussions can have a substantial impact, especially on the professional future and financial security. But conflicts are bound to happen at some point.

For you to be happy at home and work, you should learn to engage in meaningful conflict. Conflicts need to be addressed openly, with clear communication and respect for all the people involved.

Resolving conflict should be guided by principles that serve them well, providing meaningful change. You will achieve so much when you face problems without cowardice. The bottom line remains in your intentions. Always have good and clear intentions.