My Wellness Strategy

I hope this newsletter finds you well as you embark on a new year and new term. Before it gets too busy, I wanted to share a little of my own wellness strategy story with you in the hope that you connect with this and understand that great wellness requires a great strategy, and that it is okay to not be perfect (in fact, I don't think I ever get it perfect!).

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How I Live My Wellness Strategy: Non-Negotiables in Action

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In our busy lives, wellbeing can sometimes feel like an afterthought. Yet, the reality is that a grounded, personal wellness strategy makes all the difference in how we navigate both everyday demands and unexpected challenges.

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Today, I’d like to share a personal look at my own wellness strategy—what I consider my “Non-Negotiables.” These are simple practices that support my mental, emotional, and physical health, no matter what’s going on. As you read, I hope it sparks ideas for your own journey, especially as you reflect on the balance that works best for you.

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Living my wellness strategy isn’t about being perfect; it’s about creating a set of guiding principles that keep me grounded and healthy, no matter what’s going on.

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Over time, I’ve developed a set of Non-Negotiables aligned to my core values: mental and emotional health, physical health, connection and fun, work standards, and impact. My wellness strategy is personal to me, and yours will be personal to you—there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and that’s the beauty of it.

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Here’s a look at how I approach my Non-Negotiables and make wellness a part of everyday life, even when things don’t go to plan.

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The Power of Non-Negotiables

For me, my Non-Negotiables are simple but essential practices that help me feel balanced and at my best. These include grounding exercises, movement, sleep and rest, connection with others, and eating well (most of the time). But life can be unpredictable, and there are days when these things don’t happen exactly how I’d like. I might have to choose between sleep or exercise, or a work commitment and answering the phone when one of my siblings rings. When that’s the case, my goal is simply to do what I can with the time, energy and capacity I have. I make the best choices I can in the moment and keep my bigger picture in mind—staying well is a long game, and flexibility is part of it.

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Movement: Staying Active on My Terms

Movement is one of my top priorities because it keeps me energised, clear-headed, and physically strong (as I near 40 I am reminded that my physical health needs to be a top priority). I’m not rigid about what kind of movement I do; it can be anything from a workout to a long walk or a stretch session followed by a run, but no matter what, I make sure it happens. This means prioritising this when I am home, away for work, or on holiday. When I travel, I make sure I’m staying somewhere with access to a gym or outdoor space, so I can keep up with this non-negotiable. Even if I can only fit in a short session, I know I’ll feel better for it.

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That said, I don’t stress if I miss a day or two. If something gets in the way of my usual routine, I’ll just make a point of getting back to it as soon as I can. It’s about consistency over perfection, and being flexible, adapting as needed without losing my momentum.

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Sleep and Rest: Protecting My Energy

Good sleep is a non-negotiable for me, especially when I have busy or demanding days ahead. I’ve learned that if I’m well-rested, I’m sharper, more focused, and better able to make decisions. So, when I’m travelling for work, I always plan to arrive the night before so I can get a good night’s sleep and wake up refreshed for the day ahead.

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Of course, life doesn’t always go to plan, and sometimes my sleep isn’t perfect. When that happens, I focus on getting back on track with a restful night as soon as possible. For me, protecting my energy through rest and sleep is key to staying balanced and productive.

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Nutrition: Making Food Work for Me

Eating well is another priority, but I keep it flexible. Ideally, I like to prep meals ahead of time to make sure I have nutritious options available, but when life is hectic, I give myself permission to grab something convenient. If it’s a busy week, I won’t stress about having everything perfectly planned; I’ll do what I can to make healthy choices in the moment and get back to more structured meals when things settle down.

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I find this approach to nutrition really important because it allows me to be realistic. Food is fuel, but it’s also something I don’t want to add unnecessary pressure around (I have done this in the past, and it added to my stress rather than supporting my wellbeing). Staying nourished is what matters.

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Connection and Fun: Nurturing My Relationships and Joy

Staying connected to the people I care about and finding moments of fun are both essential parts of my wellness strategy. This might mean setting time aside for a quick coffee with a friend or making plans with family on the weekends. Fun and connection keep me grounded and remind me why all the other Non-Negotiables matter in the first place.

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Even if I’m busy, I’ll make time for small moments of connection. Whether it’s a quick text to someone important to me or a voice note during the day, these small actions keep me centred and remind me that wellness isn’t just physical or mental—it’s social and joyful too.

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Adapting My Wellness Strategy

My wellness strategy is unique to me and has evolved over time. I know it will keep changing depending on what’s happening in my life, the phase I’m in, and my circumstances. What’s important is that I stay adaptable and keep moving forward. I focus on progress rather than perfection, and I accept that some weeks might look different from others. Life happens, and it’s okay. What matters is that I keep coming back to my Non-Negotiables and making them work for me, wherever I’m at.

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Finding Your Own Wellness Strategy

Your wellness strategy doesn’t have to look like mine; it’s all about discovering what works best for you. Think about the Non-Negotiables that support your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing and find ways to make them part of your routine. Be open to changing things up as needed, and remember: wellness isn’t about following rigid rules but creating habits that make you feel your best.

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Staying committed to your own wellness strategy is powerful because it helps you show up for yourself, no matter what’s going on. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it does need to be yours. Embrace the process, adapt as you go, and keep moving forward—you’ve got this.

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P.S Have you seen our 2025 Educator Planner is now available? Crafted with everything you need to help you stay on top of your schedule, protect your energy, and make time for what matters most in your day.