This month I’m doing 20 things to design my best life. Some are daily habits and some are apps I love or supplements that I’m taking to feel my best. All of these things fit into one or more of the following categories:

  • deepen my spiritual life and deepen my faith
  • help me get in shape and stay healthy
  • generate income to make a little extra money
  • express my creativity, sharpen my mind, or just have fun

This is my 4 Hobby Framework to lead a balanced life. 

Here’s the first five.

Read my Bible Every Day.

Daily Bible reading is a key discipline to deepen your faith. You can read at any time or multiple times throughout the day, but I prefer first thing in the morning. I think it sets you up for a better day ahead when you read scripture first. (It helps the first cup of coffee taste better, too.)

Before the day gets away from you… Before the never-ending to-do list takes over your thoughts and you have to juggle deadlines and appointments and daily life, take a moment to connect with God and dig into His Word.

Get 10,000 Steps Daily

If you’re not tracking, you might not know how little you’re moving around. And as long as you’re physically able, you should move. Most of us sit at a desk all day and plop down on the couch at night. But are bodies are meant to move.

If you’re not currently moving much, aim for 8,000 steps. Then shoot for 10,000.

I take a quick walk in the morning (about a mile) and try to take a quick walk on my lunch break. Then look for opportunities throughout the day to get in steps. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park away from the store entrance and walk across the parking lot.

Play the NYT Word Games

After my Bible reading and a quick walk, I enjoy the New York Times Games while I finish my first cup of coffee. These games are a fun way to start the day and get your mind thinking. I’ve heard that crossword and word games are a great way to keep your mind sharp as you age. And we all need to do that!

Hit the Gym

Get those workouts in! I’m going to the gym at least 4 days a week. Sweating it out is a great way to feel strong and clear the mind. I’m not a personal trainer but I highly recommend you find one if you don’t know where to start. Once you learn the basics, you can go alone. (But sometimes a solid gym partner will push you to do more than you think you’re capable of and keep you accountable.)

Drink LMNT Daily

I thought too much salt was bad (and yes, too much of anything can be bad) but it turns out most of us aren’t getting enough. And the science says adequate sodium consumption is necessary for healthy hydration. LMNT has zero sugar and includes some potassium and magnesium, as well. Grapefruit and watermelon are my current favorites. You can learn more on my Favs page and get a free sample pack (to determine your favorite flavor) with any purchase.

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I’ll be sharing five more things each week until we hit 20. Are you in? What healthy habits are you currently tracking or which one are you planning to start?