As the school year begins the excitement of seeing friends, getting involved, and taking interesting classes can almost make you forget about time for self-care. New beginnings typically entail coming up with major goals and accomplishments that you want to achieve through the school year or even the semester. Yet, finding time to balance school work, a social life, and being on the path to creating your best self can be challenging. Mental toughness is a characteristic that most people envy, which is why when I saw this challenge I knew I needed to try it out. The 75 day hard challenge can be extreme, but I suggest doing it to whatever you are capable of. The rules are as follows:
- Workout 2 times a day for 45 minutes (one must be outside)
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Although you may be rolling your eyes at this one, working out can be however and whenever you choose. An inside workout can be waking up before your class to do yoga. Starting your day with mental clarity and a positive mindset can really determine how the rest of your day goes. Although an outdoor workout may not be the most convenient, especially as the fall weather is setting in, fresh air and sunshine is more important than you think. Even a walk around campus in between classes, or assignments, can do wonders. Getting fresh air on a daily basis has been shown to help fight depression and even gives your body some Vitamin D.
- Follow a Diet
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Healthy eating, especially in college, can be a challenge. However, even the smallest choices can make the biggest difference and you will feel a significant change in your well-being. Instead of a big, juicy, greasy burger opt for a grilled chicken sandwich. At night when the cravings set in, instead of grabbing a bag of potato chips have some crackers and hummus. Even substituting sugary drinks with water can make the biggest difference, and your body will be happier as well.
- Drink a gallon of water per day
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Water is so important for our daily health and yet so many look down upon it. Water boosts energy and can even be the reason you get through your next class. Despite what the challenge says, attempt to begin with the daily amount of water intake for your size and activity level. As your body becomes more adjusted with drinking more water, increase the intake until you reach one gallon.
- Read 10 pages of a non-fiction book a day
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Whether you are someone who enjoys reading or not, books can truly expand our mind. You don’t even need to physically pick up a book to complete this part of the challange as you can simply listen to an audiobook while completing any task. Two books in particular I recommend are, You are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life, and Modern Mindfulness: How to Be More Relaxed, Focused, and Kind While Living in a Fast, Digital, Always-On World.
- Take progress pictures every single day
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Lastly, not only will this challenge allow you to develop a mental toughness, greater confidence, and self-belief the physical and mental progression will be visible by the end of the 75 days.
I wish you the best of luck this semester, and don’t forget your well-being and happiness should always be your top priority !