The Working 20s

3 Lifestyle Changes to TRY This New Year

I don’t know about you guys, but the end of 2024 was a real mess for me. You know? It was one of those years where I kept hitting the same walls, making the same mistakes, and feeling like I was just not moving forward.

But here’s the thing—I learned a lot.  So, I’m sharing the three biggest lessons I learned to help you understand your own wants,  needs and create systems that actually work for you.

Build a Routine That Works for You

Everyone has a different style when it comes to managing their time and getting things done. Some people thrive on 9-to-5,  others work best in the mornings or evenings only. Instead of forcing yourself to fit into someone else’s idea of productivity, here’s how you can rethink your daily routine:

  • Work around your needs: Identify the times of day or week when you’re at your best and plan your work or personal tasks around them.
  • Start small: Make one or two adjustments to your schedule and observe the difference. Small changes can have a big impact over time.
  • Drop the guilt: You’re not failing if you don’t follow someone else’s idea of productivity. Success looks different for everyone.

Play to Your Strengths

Many of us spend too much time trying to improve in areas where we’re not naturally strong, instead of focusing on what we already excel at. By leaning into your strengths, you’ll feel more energised and effective.

Here’s how to focus on what you do best:

  • Recognise what isn’t working: If certain tasks drain you or feel unnatural, consider whether they’re worth your energy.
  • Delegate or collaborate: You don’t have to be good at everything. Partner with others who excel in areas where you struggle.
  • Invest in what excites you: Think about the activities you genuinely enjoy and feel confident doing. How can you spend more time on those areas?


Understand What You Really Want

Have you ever agreed to something, only to later realise it wasn’t what you wanted? It’s so easy to get caught up in other people’s needs and expectations, especially when you’re not clear about your own. Here’s how you can start spending more time on understanding yourself:

  • Pause before saying yes: Instead of agreeing to things immediately, give yourself a moment to think. Ask yourself, Do I actually want to do this? Will this help me get closer to my goals?
  • Notice when you feel resentful: Feeling frustrated after agreeing to something is a sign that it may not align with your needs. Use this as a chance to reflect and adjust next time.
  • Learn from past experiences: Think back to times when you agreed to something and later regretted it. What led to that decision, and how could you handle it differently in the future?


Final Thoughts

As you step into the new year, remember that growth takes time, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. Whether it’s understanding your needs, building routines that work for you, or leaning into your strengths, the key is to keep moving forward with intention and self-compassion.

Here are a few final takeaways:

  • Mistakes are lessons: Every misstep is an opportunity to learn.
  • Work with yourself, not against yourself: Build a life that fits your unique needs and strengths.
  • Focus on progress, not perfection: Growth happens in small, consistent steps.

If you want to hear more about these reflections and how to apply them in your own life,  you can listen to the full episode of The Deborah Missengue Podcast on Spotify or book yourself in for a 1:1 chat with the host.

Let’s make 2025 a year of meaningful growth together!