Non-negotiables with yourself
Why are non-negotiables important and what are they?
A non-negotiable is a belief, core value, or principle we are unwilling to compromise on. These are things we are not willing to waver on, no matter the circumstances. NO MATTER THE CIRCUMSTANCES. Non-negotiables can relate to everything from personal relationships to health to finances to making your bed every morning. They can be as simple or as complex as you decide to make them.
Let’s be real, we could all use some non-negotiables in our daily life to keep us in check with ourselves. I use them to remove friction from my life. They help keep me on track so I don’t trash my day before it’s even started. I’m going to share a few of my favs and what they’ve done for me.
MAKE YOUR BED
I know, we hear this ALL the time, but seriously, it’s imperative. And I don’t mean a fufu bed making, I mean meticulously, making your damn bed. It’s not the bed being made that catapults me into a great day, it’s coming home to success. When I get into my perfectly made bed at night, it feels like a damn gift from god. There is nothing better at that moment. Give yourself the gift.
WASH YOUR FACE
If you know me, you know I am a complete MANIAC about this, and proud of it too. I’ll NEVER go to bed without a clean face and all my creams on. No joke, it does not matter the circumstances, my face will be clean before I fall asleep. Listen!! Nothing is worse than a breakout that leaves you feeling insecure, in pain, unhappy, borderline depressed, hiding out in your house… the list goes on. The consequences of NOT taking care of your skin are such a mind game, don’t play.
SUNSCREEN
I’m a bit of a maniac about this too, so I’ll keep it short. Wear it every day. There are a million reasons to support it, so do it.
NAILS NAILS NAILS
If you are a nail-biter (like I was), keep your nails groomed at ALL COSTS. Free your mind of the temptation of biting them. There is nothing less attractive than a girl with gross hands. Handle it, yourself or at a salon.
DAILY MOVEMENT
This is a new NN that I’ve implemented and the positive impact it’s had on my mental and physical health is UNMATCHED. Stop beating yourself up for not getting some major workout done that day, instead commit to daily movement, every day. Keep it simple. Like, so simple. For me, this can be a yoga class or weightlifting, maybe a run, but it can also be a 10 min walk outside, 10 min of stretching, or a simple yoga flow at home. The commitment is daily movement; give yourself the opportunity to win.
Pajamas before sleep
Shower before bed
Use non-negotiables as your framework for decision-making. When we have a clear idea of our non-negotiables, we can make decisions that align with our values and beliefs. You will feel more fulfilled and satisfied in your life. Implementing non-negotiables is EXTREMELY powerful and enhances a more purposeful and authentic life.