5 Things You Should Do at the Beginning of Every Month

It’s the first week of June. Six months has snuck up on us really fast. The half-year mark is a great time to reflect on the second quarter of the year and aggressively plan out the last six months…

Thinking back on the questions; how has this year been treating you? How have you been doing in 2018? Have you accomplished your goals? I had so much anxiety about  all the goals I set for myself this year.

I felt the pressure to maximize my time and be more productive with my life. At one point, I felt like a complete failure whose time was passing by.  I realized that preparing and setting my intention at the start of the month proved to most success for me.

Doing this helps me manage my time and feel like I have things under control. When I plan, I feel better, and I can measure my success easier.

These are the 5 things I do at the start of every month that help me stay organized and motivated.

CREATE A BUDGET

Money allows us to experience a full life and to survive. Our basic necessities are met, and we can live feeling comfortable. If we cannot control how we use our hard earned money, it will control our lives!

No one wants to get through a year and realize that you did not save, did  not travel, you are still in debt and have nothing to show for your spending habits. I did not realize it, but at one point I was spending approximately $250 a week eating out. Yes! So multiply that by 4. It nearly blew my mind. Do you spend money like this…

Tracking your spending and creating a budget will benefit you in the way you have never dreamed of. It’s mandatory to know exactly where your money is going each month. 

Take my advice and create a budget and stick to it. If you need help, click here and if you need motivation, click here.

CLEAN YOUR HOME

Nothing like a clean, clutter-free, and organized home. You’ll feel happier, and your life will change. Ive always been an organized person and I love cleaning. Create a cleaning schedule at the beginning of the month. Be specific on areas that need attention and make time to tackle bigger tasks. Schedule time to organize mail and important documents, clean out the freezer or stove. Tidy up your closet or your car.

My cleaning day is every Monday with light cleaning throughout the week. I even own a file cabinet that is alphabetized with important documents. For tips and motivation, download my favorite app Pinterest and type in “Cleaning Schedule.”

 MOVE YOUR BODY

Wellness is always at the forefront of my mind. I become unmotivated like everyone else, however, my goals are to stay consistent with being healthier overall this year.

Set a workout goal for the month and challenge yourself to do it daily. Choose something that you will enjoy and will hold your attention. Commit to working out a few days a week. If you have a gym membership, go! Take a spin class, Join hot yoga, or take a challenge at home.

I am currently doing the 30-day squat challenge. The results are amazing!

SIT STILL

Life gets so overwhelming when we are constantly on the go. We are commuting, working, taking care of households and running errands. This can become stressful over time.

Designate some time daily or weekly to relax. It’s necessary. Schedule a few minutes at the end of the day to sit alone or with family and meditate for just 5 -10 minutes. Some people like to start the day in silence and prayer. I do both! The 10 minutes of meditation or chanting is an investment to my health, and it makes a world of a difference.

Readjusting your mind and body will help get you through the days easier and happier.

Download my favorite app Calm or click here for a guided meditation.

DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Honestly, this one is a struggle for me. Often, we get so stuck in our ways and routines and forget life has so much more to offer us. Set a small goal to do something that will be fun and challenge you. Learn a new skill or cross off something on your bucket list. I choose to read two books this month. So I scheduled nightly reading time into my routine.

For me, sticking to these goals monthly allow me to feel appreciation for myself and they are ways that I honor life. Give them a try!