Amid the beginning of a new year, many people find themselves searching creative ways to become healthier and more productive.

In some respects, it only takes a few minutes a day to devote one’s time to following a certain routine or creating a habit of good practice. When it seems like there is not enough time to do all that you feel compelled to do, begin with small steps and watch how efficient you will feel about yourself when you stop neglecting the smallest of intended goals.

Begin your day with a procedure that makes you feel as though you are on the right track. This task might include cooking or eating a healthy breakfast, walking the family dog, making your bed, documenting a daily to-do list, or spending a few minutes engaged in a meaningful prayer. Starting each day with a small ritual can sometimes make a person feel as though he or she is being consistent and responsible.

Another wise plan could entail grabbing a banana or healthy snack before leaving the house instead of waiting until the hunger pains strike and the only food available is candy or chips.

Some people also feel better about themselves when they tidy up an area such as their kitchen at home or their desk at work. Clutter appears as chaos. It can often cause people to lose focus and decrease the amount of productivity they are hoping to gain.

Individuals who are responsible and productive possess an image of being grounded and dependable. Others’ perceptions are critical when it comes to stereotypes and gossip. They are also crucial to one’s career status and levels of advancement. Therefore, it is imperative that people are careful to portray the image in which they wish for others to view them.

If daily responsibilities are overwhelming and you feel quite out of control at times, look for relaxing methods that will allow you to unwind and save your energy for the exhausting tasks ahead of you. For instance, smell a pleasant scent, soak in lavender, read a good book, or stretch your body in a very comfortable setting to loosen the tension in your muscles.

Meditation is sometimes needed when your brain feels as though it is experiencing an overload of information. Take the time to write down pleasant, positive thoughts and then give your brain a rest. For some people, it is helpful to turn off the phone, the computer, and the radio, so that complete silence is experienced.

Remember, it is your job to take care of you.

Dr. Sonya Rogers is a certified counselor who lives in Daphne.

Her column regularly appears in The Bulletin.