Every expert, scientist, psychologist, or other person that’s gone through it can agree that in order to move on, one has to reconcile with the past. There may have never been a better time for reconciliation then 2021. Now that we’ve put some of 2020’s bad mojo behind us (and I say some because our problems did not magically disappear once the clock turned to 12:01), we can take stock of how the pandemic and its aftereffects have wrecked our daily routine, and resolve to feel better in the new year, while moving on gracefully.

Here are three minor and lowkey adjustments you can do to rebuild good habits in 2021:

Think positively, even when you don’t feel like it

Though we are well aware that the power of positive thinking can only get you so far, it is so important to develop a habit of making a conscious choice to see the silver lining in every situation. While some situations are more dire than others, a good trick is to be aware of overwhelmingly negative thoughts that flood your brain. When you start noticing them, do something to break the cycle: get up, wash a dish, take a shower, train your brain to get out of a negative cycle. Once that happens, try to think of one positive thing happening in your life. Slowly, your brain will be rewired to think positively whenever it is flooded with negative thoughts. 

Sit up straight

If you’ve been plastered onto your couch for most of your days (and we’re not judging!), your posture has definitely taken a hit. Our bodies are wired to move, they actually like doing it, so if you feel yourself becoming a sedentary hunchback, try adding some motion to your routine. Whether that’s going for a run, or doing some jumping jacks, the goal is to fix your posture in the long run so you don’t feel the repercussions of 2020 in 20 years. 

Drink a lot of water

The benefits of water are numerous. Not only is it the best thing that you can do for your skin, but being hydrated can significantly improve your mental health (we’re not joking). You will feel less lazy and more energetic, and you are more likely to be less hungry throughout the day. Whether you like it still or sparkling, flavored or not, all that counts as hydration. So find your water of choice and aim to consume 50% of your body weight in ounces of water.