Life is busy, and it’s easy to skip the small tasks that seem unnecessary in the moment. But
taking a little time now can save you from headaches, discomfort, and even bigger problems down the road. Here are 10 simple but powerful habits to adopt that will help you prepare for the day and prevent future frustrations.
1. Bundle Up Before Heading OutIt’s tempting to skip the hat and gloves when you're rushing out the door, but a few extra seconds to bundle up can save you from catching a chill—or worse, frostbite. Invest in quality outerwear, and keep it near the door to make it easy to grab on your way out. Your future self will thank you when you're warm and cozy instead of shivering through your errands. 2. Keep Your Car Winter-Ready
Before temperatures dip too low, check your car’s tires, battery, and wiper fluid. Stock an emergency kit with blankets, a flashlight, and snacks. Also, don’t let your fuel tank run too low—keeping it at least half full can prevent condensation from freezing in the fuel lines. Taking these precautions now ensures you’re not stranded in the cold wishing you had planned ahead.
3. Make Sure Your Devices Are Up to Date
Waiting until your laptop or phone decides to crash is not ideal. Regularly update your devices to prevent software glitches or security risks. This small step can save you a lot of hassle, especially if you rely on technology for work or staying
connected.
4. Protect Your SkinCold air and indoor heat can wreak havoc on your skin. Take the time to apply moisturizer and lip balm daily to prevent dryness and cracking. Bonus: You’ll feel more confident with healthy, hydrated skin. 5. Meal Prep for the Week
A little effort now can prevent the midweek scramble for dinner. Prepare a few easy meals or chop veggies in advance. Not only will you eat healthier, but you’ll avoid the stress of last-minute meal decisions.
6. Charge Your Devices Overnight
Make it a habit to charge your phone, tablet, and any other essential devices before bed. There’s nothing more frustrating than waking up to a dead battery when you need to run out the door or jump on a call.
7. Check Your Supplies
Before diving into a task, make sure you have everything you need. Whether you’re tackling a home improvement project or sending thank-you notes, double-checking your supplies can save you from mid-project interruptions. No one wants to run out of nails or stamps halfway through.
8. File Away Papers Daily
Piles of paperwork can snowball into a chaotic mess. Take a few moments each day to file or recycle papers as they come in. This keeps your surfaces clear and prevents the dreaded marathon filing session later.
9. Seal Your Containers
Whether it’s a container of soup or a bottle of laundry detergent, double-check that lids are tightly secured before putting them away. This simple habit prevents spills and messes that can take far more time to clean up later.
10. Avoid Post-Holiday ClutterDon’t let holiday decorations linger into February. Take the time now to pack them up properly and label storage boxes clearly. This ensures they’ll be easy to find and in good condition when you need them next year. Taking the
time to do these little things might seem like a hassle in the moment, but each one pays off by preventing bigger issues down the road. Start with one or two and watch how they make your days run more smoothly.
