By Jemi Ekunkunbor

It’s the start of a new year and the forecast by financial experts and even seers don’t look good. With inflation going at over 20% individuals and families are having their economies disrupted many times over.

Many are stuck in various endeavours that they can no longer thrive.

The start of the year is always the best time to set the tone for how the year will pan out. It certainly cannot be business as usual. It’s time to get unstuck and start over again.

Having a clear vision and strategy that will work is required.

In other to help individuals thrive again, Allure called in five coaches with expertise in various fields; career, health and wellness, finance, life, and marriage to share with us tips on how to start afresh in the new year. This is what they said.

1. Collins Alunomoh…Be Intentional with life

He is an advanced integrative life and personal sales coach. Proficient in various intervention techniques, he is dedicated to empowering professionals and entrepreneurs to cultivate success-oriented mindsets overcome stress, and effectively promote themselves throughout their personal and professional journeys.

As a life coach, I cannot stress enough the importance of starting the new year with purpose and intention. Here are some practical steps you can take to maximize the potential of the upcoming year. Firstly, take time to reflect on the successes and failures of the previous year, extracting valuable lessons from the latter. Secondly, ensure that your life goals are growth-oriented, precise, and grounded in reality. By breaking these goals into smaller, time-bound tasks, you create a clear path to achievement. Thirdly, cultivate a supportive network around you, and don’t hesitate to seek assistance when needed. Lastly, adopt healthy routines that benefit your well-being, such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and sufficient sleep. Remember, the new year presents a blank canvas for you to intentionally script a successful and joyful life.

2. Maje Ayida…..Improve your physical wellness

Maje Ayida is a Fitness influencer and the CEO of Eden Lifestyle, a health and fitness brand that caters to various industries in Nigeria.

In 2023, he was recognised as one of The MIPAD 100 most influential Africans globally.

My wellness tips for a successful 2024 are as follows.

Everyday, take 10,000 steps. This will significantly impact your health once you can make it a daily habit, spread out through your entire day. Challenge yourself to hit your 10,000 mark no matter what!

In addition to taking 10,00 steps daily, hydrate more. Double your water intake immediately! Water is nature’s medicine and is essential for good health.

Then, prioritise sleep. Getting eight hours of sleep every day will improve every aspect of your physical and mental wellness, and help you achieve all your other goals. Unfortunately, streaming devices, social media and other distractions make it too easy to stay up later than you intend.

Finally, strength training. Weightlifting is essential and has a laundry list of benefits for both men and women. We must all be lifting in 2024. Do so and thank me later!

3. Adetola Ogbebor..Prioritise goals and learning

Adetola Ogbebor is a Certified Life Coach, an Emotional Intelligence Certified Professional and a NeuroLinguistic Practitioner who helps working professionals and entrepreneurs to harness their potentials, master their emotions, and take action. 

She is a Member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, ACTI,  Nigeria Institute of Management, N.I.M, and Head of Membership of the Life Coaches Association of Nigeria, LCAN.

As we begin a new year, here are 5 things to prioritise as a career professional.

The first thing is Gratitude. Being grateful is an acknowledgment of what you have. It opens you up for more. Be grateful for life and that you have a career path.

Another thing is to pay attention to your Career Goals/Vision. No one gets anywhere without a goal.

– What do you want to achieve?

– By when do you want to achieve it?

– What skills, and competencies would you need?

– How and where can these skills be acquired?

Also, prioritise Learning, Training, and Technology. The world is changing at the speed of light, what new knowledge do you need in order to become more valuable? What you learned last year may not be sufficient for you to thrive today.

Then, you must be Flexible and Adaptable. Do not be rigid about your processes. Options are always available. Keep your eyes on the goal but be objective in your approach.

Lastly, but of utmost importance is your Health, Mental and Emotional well-being. It takes someone who is stable to be productive.

No matter the lofty goals you have, if you are physically ill, or suffer a mental breakdown you will not be able to achieve anything.

4. Lauretta Ovine Ogbum…Set time for shared activities

Lauretta Ovine Ogbum, also known as theActivator is a  Relationship/Marriage Coach and Therapist, passionate about helping individuals cultivate and maintain thriving relationships. Founder of the Strandfold Support Foundation, she offers psychological and emotional support to those affected by domestic violence and abuse.

Couples can set meaningful goals to strengthen their relationship in this new year. Firstly, prioritise communication by scheduling regular date nights or implementing daily check-ins to discuss feelings and concerns. Establish financial goals, such as creating a joint budget or saving for a shared aspiration like a vacation. Foster emotional intimacy by setting aside quality time for shared activities or hobbies.

Prioritise health together, whether through exercising as a couple, or planning nutritious meals.

Lastly, work on personal growth and support each other’s individual goals, encouraging personal development within the context of the relationship. These goals can create a solid foundation for a fulfilling and harmonious year ahead.

help people develop and improve performance.

5. Benjamin Aduroja….Set a defined financial plan

Coach Benjamin Aduroja is Global Financial Consultant and CEO, Cutting Edge Partners; a premier financial services firm serving individuals and firms globally through bespoke financial advisory services.

A few weeks back, I embarked on a personal retreat to meticulously plan my finances for the upcoming year. After dedicating two days to this endeavor, I emerged with a well-defined plan and effective strategies to enhance my financial well-being. Consequently, my foremost advice as we start 2024 is to allocate time for a comprehensive evaluation of your life and financial standing.

Secondly, establish clear financial goals. This step is pivotal as it positions you for greater financial success, providing a roadmap for your endeavors.

Thirdly, embrace the discipline of working with a budget. Develop a weekly spending plan to meticulously manage your finances, ensuring that you allocate resources judiciously.

Lastly, foster a habit of continuous learning by delving into books on money management and investing. Increasing your knowledge in these areas not only equips you with the tools to manage your finances effectively but also attracts abundance into your life.

By prioritising these steps as you embark on the journey of a new year, you’ll set the stage for a financially prosperous and fulfilling future.