YNAB Glow-Up Challenge: A Week of Health, Wealth, and Wellness

It’s a new dawn. It’s a new day. It’s a NEW YEAR! As we stand on the threshold of 2024, it's natural to reflect on the changes you want to make in your life and challenge yourself to take the bull by the horns. But not in the ‘gag, eye roll, challenges never work for me’ kind of way. We’re talking about real, lasting change! The kind YNABers like you love to make.

While many of us focus on resolutions related to health, fitness, and personal development, we often overlook a critical aspect of our well-being—our relationship with money. But here’s a little secret: changing your relationship with money is not just about your financial health. It’s a fundamental part of changing your relationship with yourself.

Wellness truly starts from the inside out, and that's why we're excited to introduce the YNAB Glow-Up Challenge! This week-long momentum-builder emphasizes daily commitment to all the small things (true care, truth brings*) that add up to major, meaningful, make-yourself-proud change. As James Clear would say, "The process of building habits is actually the process of becoming yourself."

Before you click away thinking you can’t possibly add one more challenge to your plate, take heart and stay with me. This is a bite-size, realistic challenge tailored to fit into the chaotic reality that is adulthood. So bite-sized, in fact, that you do Daily Practice #3 at the long stoplight you loathe the most. I mean you, I-95 and Kathleen intersection.

In this Glow-Up, created by our beloved YNAB TikTok maven Sarah S., we'll explore how nurturing your overall wellbeing can nurture your relationship with money. Each day for 7 days, you'll engage in 5 practices that contribute to a holistic sense of wellness—but don't worry, this challenge isn't about living on rice and beans or suffering through two-a-day workouts. It's about embracing a mindset that empowers you to lead a richer, more fulfilling life from every angle.

So, will you join us on this journey of self-discovery, self-improvement, and financial empowerment? Bring your New Year energy! Let’s dive into the YNAB Glow-Up Challenge: 5 simple practices every day for 7 days.  

_{*If my husband knew I used Blink-182 lyrics in this post, I would surely win the Wife of the Year Challenge. …Johnnie, are you reading this?}

Daily Practice #1: How walking 8,000 steps supports overall wellness

We're starting off with a big step—literally! Commit to taking at least 8,000 steps every day. Recent studies have shown that regular walking can significantly improve heart health, boost your mood, and even increase your lifespan. Put on the sneakers you bought on Black Friday and hit the pavement; it's time to get moving!

Daily Practice #2: How eating more vegetables improves daily energy

The second practice is  all about nourishing your body from the inside out. Aim to consume at least two cups of veggies daily. The benefits of incorporating more vegetables into your diet are endless, from lowering blood pressure to reducing the risk of chronic diseases and increasing your energy levels. So, chop up those greens and savor the goodness!

Daily Practice #3: Benefits of breathwork for stress and habit-building

Each day of our challenge, we'll delve into the world of breathwork. Spend five minutes practicing deep and mindful breathing. While this practice may be new to some, the benefits are astounding. Breathwork can help reduce anxiety, alleviate stress, and promote your body's natural healing abilities. Take a moment to breathe in positivity and exhale negativity. Try it right when you wake up, just before bedtime, or even during your commute!

Daily Practice #4: How to update your YNAB plan in five minutes per day

Now, let's talk money mindset (our favorite topic). Dedicate at least five minutes a day to update your spending plan in YNAB. The YNAB app teaches a simple method that helps you align your spending with your priorities. Enter and approve spending transactions, balance your accounts, and make sure your money is working for you. Start the year off with a strong financial foundation for a future you’ll love to live in.

Daily Practice #5: Bid farewell to your phone at bedtime

We all know the temptation of scrolling through our phones before bedtime. Each day, challenge yourself to put your phone away before you go to bed. The blue light emitted by screens disrupts your body's natural sleep patterns, leading to a host of sleep-related issues. Break this habit to ensure you get the quality sleep your body deserves.

So, there you have it: our 7-Day YNAB Glow-Up Challenge! These simple yet impactful habits will help you kickstart your new year on a positive note. Remember, change takes time, but every small step counts.

‍This won’t be the last challenge you do, but could it be the first one you love?

Are you up for the challenge? Share your experiences with us by following along with Sarah on TikTok. And if you haven’t already, sign up for YNAB! Get good with money, and never worry about money again.