Non-Negotiables- What are mine?
" The life we live and who we become is a reflection of the habits, routines, and rhythms, that make up our day to day"
HI Friend!
What are non-negotiables and why are they important? This post will give you all the information you need plus a list of my personal non-negotiables. What are yours? Feel free to steal a few off my list!
"What is a non-negotiable and why do I need one?"
Well, a non-negotiable in this context is a thing that you do every single day, without negotiation. You don’t think “Should I… should I not…”, you just do it, no questions asked. It's something you're 100% committed to so you can feel good and be the best version of yourself. Nothing and nobody will get in the way of you doing these things because it is top priority for the sake of feeling amazing!
When you create a nonnegotiable you're affirming "I intend to do this/these beneficial thing no matter what because that's how important feeling good is to me."
And THAT my friends is an extremely powerful intention. Especially because these good habits end up having exponential effects on your life over time.
As promised here are a list of my non-negotiables on a daily basis:
Food
Food is a huge thing for me. It gives me energy and keeps me field and going with the busy life I live. My food non-negotiables are: No caffeine ( makes me heart race); LOTS of protein; LOTS of water; at least three meals a day- hopefully all protein packed.
Sleep
As I have gotten older, I have come to love sleep. In fact, I can’t get enough of it really. I make sure I sleep at least 8 hours per night and fit naps in wherever I can. I also have a sleep routine, which I start no later then 8:30 pm. This will assure that I am asleep between between 9:30 pm and 10:00 pm nightly. If you would like further information read by blog “nighttime routine”
Exercise
I have been exercising since college when I started to develop anxiety. Running changed my life, mentally, physically, and spiritually. Every morning I get up before work to run- its a major non-negotiable. If my time is limited for some reason, I still make time and if I can only do 20 minutes, that’s what i’ll do. Unless I am sick or there is bad weather you will find me outside in my neighborhood running. And if its bad weather, I will get an inside workout done. It makes me feel physically and mentally strong.
Nature
When I am outside running, I am spending time in nature. It also gives me time to CONNECT, meditate, and reflect. Nature is my Higher Power and I am forever in awe of sunrises and sunsets.
Laughter/Fun
When I was in the thick of things with my anxiety, I lost my ability to laugh, smile, and have fun. Now its a non-negotiable. I at least have to laugh throughout the day, but if its a belly laugh, if even better, and I am so here for it. Laughter and fun is what CONNECTS me to others, such as spending time with or calling my friends who make me laugh.
CONNECTING with my partner
This so important for my fiance and I. Outside of our regular communication throughout the day (is time allows), we have carved out 15 minutes each night to connect and chat from 9:00PM-9:15PM. This time is critical and I truly cherish it and so does he.
Spending time with my son
While I may have a “tween” that thinks I am lame at times, he knows he has to share one thing about his day with me every night over dinner. Lately I have been super lucky, as he has been coming into our bedroom every night to give me a hug- what a lucky momma- even if he is a pain most of the time- its still a non-negotiable that I CONNECT with him daily.
Spending time with my pet
I am obsessed with my little eight pound blind labradoodle. He has been with me through everything these past ten years. We play every night and he gets cuddles every night- non-negotiable.
A healthy relationship with myself
This is not something that happened overnight. In fact, it took years of work, but it was so worth it. I have become my own best friend and don’t feel the need of anyone’s approval.
A clean living space
I know life is busy and who feels like doing the dishes before bed. But I promise you, taking those five extra minutes will change your whole morning. I also do not allow clutter- it is negative energy and will stop the flow of abundance in my life. My home and work space are where I am spend almost all of my time and you better believe, it’s nice and clean!
Make My Bed
I have been doing this for years. In fact there is a book called “Make Your Bed by Admiral William and quiet frankly, its genius. Not only does making my bed make my space clearer, but it starts me off on a good foot in the morning.
When I make my bed right away, I feel like I’ve already accomplished something that day and I carry that productive mindset with me through the rest of my morning.
GRADITUDE
Not one night for the past six years has a night went by that I did not send out a GRADITUDE list to my people. Having an attitude of GRADITUDE has changed my life. This is a MAJOR non-negotiable.
Self-Care
SS SO important for me. If I don’t make time for it, I will loose myself in my life’s to-d0 list. Whether it be a quick longer shower, at home manicure/pedicure, deep conditioning my hair, or watching my favorite trash TV like the Bachelor, it is essential for my everyday well-being.
What are your non-negotiables? and Why? Maybe your not sure because life is very hectic that’s where I am come in. Book your appointment on www.jlncoach.com
XO Jenna
