Anna Ajayi

There&rsquo;s just something about the possibility of starting fresh, dreaming big, and setting new goals.&nbsp;

But if we're being real, most of us jump into resolutions without truly understanding what we want or need.

Instead of rushing to write down &ldquo;go to the gym&rdquo; or &ldquo;save more money,&rdquo; why not take a step back? Reflecting on where you&rsquo;ve been and where you want to go can help you set meaningful intentions rather than empty resolutions.&nbsp;

The key is asking yourself the right questions—ones that challenge you, inspire you, and push you to grow.

This year, instead of focusing on the finish line, focus on yourself. Here are five questions to help you start the year with clarity, intention, and purpose.

<h2>1. What did I learn about myself last year?</h2>

Before you can move forward, you need to look back. Think about the challenges, wins, and even failures from the past year. What did they teach you about your strengths and weaknesses?

Maybe you discovered you work better under structure or that you need to set boundaries with certain people. Acknowledging these lessons will help you avoid repeating mistakes and make smarter decisions in the year ahead.

Happiness isn&rsquo;t one-size-fits-all, yet we often chase goals that don&rsquo;t align with what we value. Is it spending more time with family, working on a creative project, or simply having more quiet moments for yourself?

Take a moment to reflect on the people, activities, and experiences that genuinely bring you joy. This clarity can help you prioritise what matters and let go of things that drain your energy.

<h2>3. What am I afraid of, and why?</h2>

Fear can be a sneaky obstacle. It hides behind procrastination, self-doubt, or a reluctance to try new things.

Ask yourself: what&rsquo;s holding you back? Is it fear of failure, judgment, or the unknown? Naming your fears is the first step to overcoming them. The new year is a perfect time to face them head-on and take small, brave steps toward growth.

<h2>4. What am I grateful for right now?</h2>

Gratitude is a powerful tool for perspective. It&rsquo;s easy to get caught up in what&rsquo;s missing or what you want to change. But pausing to appreciate the good in your life can shift your mindset from lack to abundance.

Write down a list of things you&rsquo;re grateful for—big or small. This practice not only boosts your mood but also reminds you of how far you&rsquo;ve come.

<h2>5. What’s one thing I want to improve this year?</h2>

Instead of overwhelming yourself with a dozen resolutions, focus on one meaningful change. What&rsquo;s the one area of your life—whether it&rsquo;s your health, relationships, or personal growth—that needs attention?

By narrowing your focus, you&rsquo;re more likely to stay committed and make real progress. Break this goal into small, actionable steps, and celebrate each milestone along the way.

This year, make it about discovering and becoming the best version of yourself.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/lifestyle/importance-of-journaling-2025010314471098103">Why journaling could be the life-changing habit you need in 2025</a>

There’s just something about the possibility of starting fresh, dreaming big, and setting new goals. 

The start of a new year feels like opening a blank notebook. 

5 important questions to ask yourself as the new year begins 

Finding a bump under your armpit can be uncomfortable and disturbing. But you don&rsquo;t need to panic as most armpit bumps are harmless and easily treatable.&nbsp;

These bumps can appear for various reasons, such as skin irritation, infections, or underlying health conditions. Knowing the cause of an armpit bump is the first step to treating it effectively and preventing future issues.&nbsp;

Many of these causes are common and manageable with simple remedies or lifestyle changes. However, some bumps may need medical attention.&nbsp;

Let&rsquo;s walk you through five common causes of armpit bumps and how to treat them, so you can take care of your skin and health with confidence.

Cause: Shaving or waxing can cause hair to grow back into the skin instead of out of it, leading to painful, red bumps.

Treatment: Gently exfoliate the area to remove dead skin and help the hair break free. Avoid picking or squeezing the bump to prevent infection.

Switching to shaving cream or trying laser hair removal can help reduce ingrown hairs in the future.

Cause: Blocked sweat glands can trap sweat and bacteria under the skin, leading to bumps, a condition known as hidradenitis suppurativa.

Treatment: Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid tight clothing that can irritate your skin. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics or recommend minor surgery to remove the blocked glands.

Cause: Deodorants, perfumes, or laundry detergents can irritate sensitive skin, causing rashes or bumps.

Treatment: Stop using products that may have caused the irritation. Wash the area with mild soap and warm water. Look for hypoallergenic deodorants or natural alternatives that are gentle on your skin.

Cause: Your lymph nodes can swell due to infections like the flu, a cold, or other illnesses. These swollen nodes can feel like firm, tender bumps.

Treatment: Rest and stay hydrated to help your body fight the infection. The swelling should go down as your body heals. If the bump persists for more than two weeks or is accompanied by fever or weight loss, see a doctor.

<h2>5. Bacterial or fungal infections</h2>

Cause: Warm, moist armpits are the perfect environment for bacteria or fungi to grow, leading to bumps or boils.

Treatment: Clean the area with an antibacterial soap and apply over-the-counter creams for bacterial or fungal infections. If the bump is large, painful, or filled with pus, see a doctor for drainage or stronger medication.

Armpit bumps can be annoying, but they’re treatable.

5 causes of armpit bumps and how to treat them 

The truth is, mistakes in cooking rice are incredibly common and easy to make, but they’re just as easy to fix.

Perfect rice doesn&rsquo;t require special skills or fancy equipment, it&rsquo;s all about understanding a few key principles. Many of us grow up cooking rice without thinking much about the process, and small habits can lead to less-than-perfect results.

Here are five common mistakes people make when cooking rice.&nbsp;

Skipping the rinse leaves excess starch on the grains, leading to clumpy and sticky rice. Rinsing removes this starch and any impurities. Place the rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until it runs clear.

<h2>2. Incorrect water-to-rice ratio</h2>

Using too much water can make rice mushy, while too little leaves it undercooked. The ideal ratio varies by rice type:

<ul><li>Long-grain white rice: 1 cup rice to 1.5 cups water</li><li>Brown rice: 1 cup rice to 2 cups water</li></ul>

Always check the specific instructions for your rice variety.

<h2>3. Lifting the lid during cooking</h2>

Peeking lets steam escape, disrupting the cooking process and affecting texture. Once you cover the pot, resist the urge to lift the lid until the cooking time is complete.

Immediately serving rice can result in uneven texture. Allowing it to rest for about 10 minutes after cooking helps redistribute moisture, leading to fluffier rice. After resting, gently fluff with a fork before serving.

<h2>5. Using inappropriate cooking methods</h2>

Cooking rice on high heat or without a lid can cause uneven cooking or burning. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover tightly. Avoid stirring during cooking, as it can activate starch and make the rice gloppy.&nbsp;

By avoiding these pitfalls and following some simple tips, you&rsquo;ll be able to serve up fluffy, delicious rice every time, no matter the type or recipe.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/how-to-cook-rice-the-right-way/ffdsdze">Avoid cooking rice this way or you're eating poison</a>

Using too much water can make rice mushy, while too little leaves it undercooked. The ideal ratio varies by rice type:

Cooking rice might seem simple, but it's easy to end up with mushy, undercooked, or sticky grains. 

5 common mistakes people make when cooking rice

For many people worldwide, especially in countries like Russia, Ethiopia, and Serbia, Christmas is observed on January 7th.&nbsp;

But what&rsquo;s the reason behind celebrating Christmas on January 7th?&nbsp;

The difference in Christmas dates comes down to calendars. Most people follow the Gregorian calendar, introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582. However, some Orthodox Christians use the Julian calendar, which was created by Julius Caesar in 46 BC. Over the centuries, the Julian calendar became out of sync with the sun, meaning its dates slowly shifted. By now, there is a 13-day difference between the two calendars.

When Pope Gregory introduced the new calendar, many Western Christian churches adopted it, and Christmas was fixed on December 25th. However, Orthodox Christians in countries like Russia, Ethiopia, Ukraine, and Serbia stuck to the Julian calendar. For them, December 25th on the Julian calendar corresponds to January 7th on the Gregorian calendar.

<h2>Who celebrates Christmas on January 7th?</h2>

Christmas on January 7th is mainly observed by Orthodox Christians. Countries like Russia, Ethiopia, Egypt, Ukraine, Serbia, and parts of Greece hold beautiful celebrations on this date.&nbsp;

In Ethiopia, the day is called Ganna, and it&rsquo;s marked by church services and family gatherings. In Russia, the day starts with a religious service and ends with a grand feast.

Orthodox communities in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East also follow this tradition. For them, the date is less important than the meaning of the celebration—honouring the birth of Jesus Christ.

For Orthodox Christians, Christmas is a spiritual event. Many people fast in the days leading up to Christmas to prepare their hearts and minds. On January 7th, they attend church services, which are long and full of beautiful hymns and prayers. Afterward, families gather to share meals, exchange gifts, and enjoy each other&rsquo;s company.

So, whether you celebrate on December 25th or January 7th, the spirit of Christmas unites us all.

ALSO READ:<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/food-travel/5-unique-african-christmas-traditions/ekx92ky"> 5 unique African Christmas traditions</a>

Did you know that not everyone celebrates Christmas on December 25th?

Why some people celebrate Christmas on January 7th 

Most living creatures, like humans and animals, rely on a heart to survive. However, nature is full of surprises!&nbsp;

Some extraordinary creatures exist without a heart and thrive in their own ways. Imagine life without a heart—it sounds impossible, but not for them.&nbsp;

These creatures have adapted over millions of years to survive in harsh conditions, developing fascinating ways to live. Their lives remind us how diverse and adaptable life can be.

Jellyfish are among the most ancient creatures on Earth, dating back over 500 million years. These fascinating sea creatures have no brain, no blood, and no heart. Instead of relying on a circulatory system, jellyfish absorb oxygen directly through their thin skin. Their gelatinous bodies are designed to move gracefully in water, pushing nutrients to where they are needed. Despite their simple structure, jellyfish are highly efficient predators, using their tentacles to catch food and survive.

Sea stars, commonly called starfish, are beautiful marine creatures with no need for a heart. Instead, they use a water vascular system to move nutrients and oxygen throughout their bodies. This system allows them to pump seawater into their arms, giving them the strength to move and grip surfaces. Sea stars are not only heartless survivors but also excellent regenerators—they can regrow lost limbs, making them a true wonder of nature.

Flatworms are tiny, fascinating creatures that live in water or damp environments. They have no heart, brain, or lungs. Flatworms rely on diffusion to survive, which means oxygen and nutrients pass through their thin bodies directly from their surroundings. This simple but effective process allows flatworms to live without a circulatory system.&nbsp;

Sponges might seem like plants, but they are actually animals. These simple creatures have no heart, brain, or nervous system. Sponges survive by filtering water through their porous bodies, extracting oxygen and nutrients directly from the water. Their survival method is as calm and unhurried as their appearance. Sponges have existed for millions of years, without a heart.&nbsp;

Corals are another group of marine animals that can live without a heart. They may look like colourful underwater plants, but they are actually tiny creatures called polyps. Corals get their energy through a symbiotic relationship with algae that live in their tissues. They also filter nutrients from the water, thriving as a collective rather than as individual organisms. Corals form reefs that are home to countless marine species, making them vital to ocean ecosystems.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/5-animals-that-never-sleep-and-why/rb7nkv5">5 animals that never sleep and why</a>

Some extraordinary creatures exist without a heart

These creatures may not have hearts, but they have adapted regardless.

5 creatures that can live without a heart 

Gravity, the force that keeps everything anchored to Earth, is predictable, at least most of the time.&nbsp;

But there are places around the world where this fundamental law of nature seems to defy itself. These spots, known as &ldquo;gravity hills&rdquo; or &ldquo;magnetic hills,&rdquo; create illusions that make objects roll uphill, water flow in the wrong direction, or people feel strangely disoriented.

Here&rsquo;s a look at five such spots around the world where gravity seems to work in reverse.

Magnetic Hill is one of the most famous gravity-defying spots in the world. Visitors often place their cars in neutral and watch as they seemingly roll uphill. Locals have embraced the mystery, with many believing in supernatural forces, while scientists attribute the phenomenon to a perfect optical illusion created by the surrounding mountains. Regardless of the explanation, experiencing this phenomenon is unforgettable.

<h2>2. Mystery Spot, California, USA</h2>

The Mystery Spot near Santa Cruz, California, has been baffling visitors since 1939. Here, you can see balls rolling uphill, people leaning at impossible angles, and water flowing upwards. The entire area creates a feeling of distortion that is hard to shake. Some believe magnetic fields are at work, while others think it's just a clever architectural trick.&nbsp;

Spook Hill in Lake Wales, Florida, has been the subject of local legends for centuries. Stories range from Native American folklore to tales of a ghostly battle between a chief and an alligator spirit.&nbsp;

Visitors are encouraged to drive their cars to a specific marker, shift into neutral, and watch as the vehicle moves uphill. The phenomenon is likely due to the way the road aligns with its surroundings, creating an optical illusion—but that doesn&rsquo;t make it any less spooky.

Located near the town of Moonbi in New South Wales, Australia&rsquo;s Gravity Hill offers a similar experience. Cars and objects appear to defy the laws of gravity, rolling uphill without any visible force. Some theorise that underground magnetic forces are at play, while others attribute it to the curvature of the land and the surrounding landscape. Either way, it&rsquo;s an intriguing stop for adventurous travellers.

<h2>5. The Reverse Waterfall, Brazil</h2>

In Brazil&rsquo;s Minas Gerais region, the Reverse Waterfall defies gravity in an entirely different way—by shooting water upward instead of letting it flow downward. Strong winds in the area blow the cascading water back up, creating the illusion of a waterfall in reverse.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/lifestyle/3-interesting-waterfalls-that-flow-backwards-2024121109231057058">3 interesting waterfalls that flow backwards</a>

Gravity, the force that keeps everything anchored to Earth, is predictable, at least most of the time. 

These gravity-defying spots remind us how much wonder the world holds.

5 mysterious places where gravity seems to work in reverse 

Women who know their worth live differently, they make decisions that reflect their confidence and self-respect.&nbsp;

They know that they are valuable, capable, and deserving of good things in life. These women aren&rsquo;t afraid to set boundaries, stand up for themselves, and go after what they want. They embrace their strengths while learning from their weaknesses, knowing that every experience contributes to their growth.

If you&rsquo;ve ever admired someone who seems to carry herself with grace and confidence, you&rsquo;re likely noticing habits that stem from a deep understanding of self-worth.&nbsp;

But what are these habits, and how can they inspire you?&nbsp;

<h2>1. They set boundaries without guilt</h2>

Women who know their worth understand the importance of boundaries. They know it&rsquo;s okay to say no when something doesn&rsquo;t align with their values or priorities. Setting boundaries protects their time, energy, and emotional well-being. These women don&rsquo;t feel guilty for putting themselves first because they know it&rsquo;s necessary for their mental and physical health.

Whether it&rsquo;s through education, self-care, or personal development, women who value themselves constantly look for ways to grow. They see themselves as a priority and aren&rsquo;t afraid to invest time, money, or energy in things that improve their lives. This could mean taking a course to advance their career, spending time in therapy, or simply making time for hobbies they love.

<h2>3. They walk away from what doesn’t serve them</h2>

Staying in situations that drain you, whether it&rsquo;s a toxic relationship, a draining job, or an unhealthy friendship, isn&rsquo;t an option for women who know their worth. They recognise when something isn&rsquo;t adding value to their lives and have the courage to walk away. Letting go is never easy, but these women know their peace is priceless.

<h2>4. They celebrate their accomplishments</h2>

Women who understand their value don&rsquo;t downplay their successes. They take pride in their achievements, big or small, and aren&rsquo;t afraid to acknowledge their hard work. Celebrating wins boosts their confidence and reminds them of what they&rsquo;re capable of. These women also cheer for others, knowing that celebrating others&rsquo; successes doesn&rsquo;t take away from their own.

<h2>5. They speak kindly to themselves</h2>

Positive self-talk is a cornerstone of knowing your worth. Women with strong self-worth avoid harsh self-criticism and instead focus on building themselves up. They understand that nobody is perfect and that making mistakes is part of life. By speaking kindly to themselves, they create a supportive inner voice that encourages growth and resilience.

If these habits resonate with you, try to incorporate them into your own life. You deserve to feel confident, capable, and worthy, because you are.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/7-habits-of-women-who-are-never-broke/bd6xgy6">7 habits of women who are never broke</a>

Women who know their worth understand the importance of boundaries.

Knowing your worth is one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself. 

5 habits of women who know their worth

One of the most fascinating abilities some animals have is the power to clone themselves to reproduce.&nbsp;

Imagine if humans could do that—no need for a partner or complicated dating processes. Just think of the possibilities! wink, wink.

<h2>What is cloning in the animal kingdom?</h2>

Cloning in animals refers to asexual reproduction, where an organism creates an exact genetic copy of itself. Unlike humans and most animals that require two parents for reproduction, these creatures can make new life all on their own. This method saves time and energy since they don&rsquo;t need to find a mate, court them, or compete with rivals.

Starfish are famous for regenerating their limbs, but did you know some species can also clone themselves? If a starfish is cut into pieces, each piece can grow into a new starfish under the right conditions. This ability helps them recover from injuries and ensures their population grows even when mates are scarce.

<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/5-animals-that-never-grow-old/nljqmxx">The immortal jellyfish takes cloning to a whole new level</a>. When injured or stressed, this jellyfish can revert to its juvenile form and start its life cycle over. In this process, it creates an identical clone of itself. This gives it the nickname "immortal" because it can theoretically live forever.

Aphids, small insects often found on plants, are masters of cloning. During the warmer months, female aphids reproduce without mating, giving birth to live young that are exact copies of themselves. This helps them quickly build up large populations to take advantage of abundant food sources.

These colourful marine creatures can split themselves into two, a process called fission. Each half becomes a new anemone. This way, they can occupy new areas and grow their numbers without needing a mate.

Planarians are tiny flatworms known for their incredible ability to regenerate. If you cut one into pieces, each part can grow into a complete worm. This process allows them to multiply quickly and survive even in tough conditions.

For these animals, cloning is a survival strategy. It ensures their species continues even when they face challenges like isolation, injury, or environmental changes. However, cloning has its downsides. Since all clones are genetically identical, they may struggle to adapt to new diseases or sudden changes in their environment.

ALSO READ:<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/5-animals-that-never-sleep-and-why/rb7nkv5"> 5 animals that never sleep and why</a>

Cloning in animals refers to asexual reproduction, where an organism creates an exact genetic copy of itself.

The animal kingdom never ceases to amaze us. 

5 animals that can clone themselves to reproduce

Whether it's Christmas, New Year, or simply appreciating your loved ones, this time of year is about showing people you care.&nbsp;

However, finding the perfect gift while staying within your budget can be tricky. You want to give something thoughtful, but you don&rsquo;t want to break the bank. Thankfully, thoughtful gifts don&rsquo;t have to cost a fortune.

In Nigeria, where we love to celebrate in style, the holiday season is also a time to be practical. Between end-of-year parties, food preparation, and travel expenses, the costs can add up quickly. That&rsquo;s why it&rsquo;s important to find gifts that are meaningful but still affordable.

If you&rsquo;re looking for ideas, don&rsquo;t worry, we&rsquo;ve got you covered. Here are five budget-friendly gift ideas that everyone on your list will love:

<h2>1. Personalised notebooks or journals</h2>

A personalised notebook or journal is a simple but meaningful gift. Many people love writing down their thoughts, goals, or daily plans. Adding a personal touch, like the recipient&rsquo;s name or an inspiring message, makes it even more special. You can find affordable options at local stores or online vendors, especially in Lagos and other big cities.

Small home decor items like picture frames, scented candles, or wall art can brighten up anyone&rsquo;s space. Many Nigerian markets and online platforms offer stylish options at great prices. Look out for unique designs that match the recipient&rsquo;s taste, it&rsquo;s a thoughtful way to help them beautify their home.

<h2>3. Rechargeable lamps or mini fans</h2>

Given the frequent power outages in Nigeria, a rechargeable lamp or mini fan is both thoughtful and practical. These items are widely available and affordable, and they&rsquo;ll be appreciated by anyone who receives them. It&rsquo;s a gift that keeps on giving, even after the holidays.

<h2>4. Affordable gadgets or accessories</h2>

Consider gifting useful gadgets like earphones, phone holders, or portable chargers. These items are practical for everyday use and come at various price points to fit your budget. Many tech stores in Ikeja&rsquo;s Computer Village or Jumia offer deals this time of year.

You don&rsquo;t need to buy expensive hampers when you can create your own. Fill a small basket with items like biscuits, tea bags, chocolates, and fruit. Add a handwritten note for a personal touch. DIY hampers allow you to customise the contents while staying within your budget.

ALSO READ:<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/lifestyle/5-free-gifts-everyone-loves-to-get%E2%80%94it-costs-zero-naira-2024120913352126416"> 5 free gifts everyone loves to get—it costs zero naira</a>

Consider gifting useful gadgets like earphones, phone holders, or portable chargers.

The holiday season is here, and with it comes the joy of giving. 

5 thoughtful budget-friendly gift ideas for everyone on your list 

Nature never fails to amaze us with its incredible wonders, and waterfalls are some of the most beautiful sights in the world.

While most waterfalls flow downwards, there are a few extraordinary ones that seem to defy gravity and flow backwards. This rare phenomenon occurs due to strong winds pushing the water upwards, making the falls look like they&rsquo;re flowing in reverse.&nbsp;

Let&rsquo;s take a closer look at those waterfalls and where you can find them.

Located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, Waipuhia Falls is a hidden gem often referred to as the &quot;Upside-Down Waterfall.&quot; This natural wonder is found along the Pali Highway, a scenic route offering breathtaking views. The waterfall is famous for its unusual appearance during strong trade winds, which blow the falling water back upwards, creating the illusion of a reversed flow.&nbsp;

Visitors hike to this spot for the dramatic scenery and to witness this rare phenomenon firsthand.&nbsp;

<h2>2. Naneghat Reverse Waterfall, Maharashtra, India</h2>

The Naneghat Reverse Waterfall is another incredible sight, located in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, India. This waterfall gets its name because the water appears to flow upwards during the monsoon season. Strong winds in the area push the water back into the air, creating a misty, magical effect.&nbsp;

Naneghat, a historic mountain pass, is a popular trekking destination, drawing visitors who want to see the reverse waterfall and the lush greenery surrounding it. The best time to visit is during the rainy season (June to September) when the winds are strongest, and the waterfall is at its most spectacular.

<h2>3. Kinder Downfall, Derbyshire, England</h2>

Kinder Downfall is located in the Peak District of England, near the village of Hayfield. It is the tallest waterfall in the region, standing at 30 metres (98 feet) high. What makes this waterfall unique is how it flows backwards during strong winds, particularly in the winter and spring.&nbsp;

When the wind gusts through the valley, it forces the water upwards, creating a stunning reverse flow. Kinder Downfall is a favourite spot for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers, offering dramatic views and a sense of tranquillity.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/7-natural-wonders-of-mother-nature-you-wont-believe-exist/z47gc23">7 natural wonders of mother nature you won't believe exist</a>

This waterfall gets its name because the water appears to flow upwards during the monsoon season.

These waterfalls flow in reverse!

3 interesting waterfalls that flow backwards

It can be frustrating and confusing, leaving you wondering why your body doesn’t seem to cooperate with what it needs most—rest.&nbsp;

This stressful cycle can make you feel stuck: you wake up groggy, drag yourself through the day, and then lie awake at night, watching the hours tick by. It&rsquo;s a vicious loop.

Oftentimes, people in this situation feel helpless and frustrated, not knowing what&rsquo;s causing their sleep troubles or how to fix them. But there are reasons behind this issue, and with some changes, you can improve your sleep and energy levels.

Let&rsquo;s explore the common causes and solutions to help you break free from this tiring cycle.

During the day, your mind might race with thoughts about work, relationships, or responsibilities, leaving you mentally drained. But when you finally lay down to sleep, your brain can go into overdrive, making it hard to relax.

If your bedtime changes often, your body’s internal clock, called the circadian rhythm, gets out of sync. This makes it harder to feel sleepy when you want to and leaves you feeling groggy during the day.

Staring at screens late into the evening can interfere with your sleep. The blue light from phones, computers, and TVs tricks your brain into thinking it’s still daytime, delaying the release of the sleep hormone, melatonin.

Drinking coffee or energy drinks in the afternoon can keep you awake long after you’ve finished them. Heavy meals or sugary snacks late in the day can also make it harder for your body to wind down at bedtime.

Conditions like sleep apnea, insomnia, or restless legs syndrome can disrupt your sleep. Even if you don’t realize it, these issues might be the reason you’re so tired but can’t fall asleep.

<ul><li>Stick to a sleep routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body clock.</li><li>Create a relaxing evening routine: Spend 30 minutes winding down before bed. Try activities like reading, meditating, or taking a warm bath.</li><li>Limit screen time before bed: Turn off screens at least an hour before you sleep. Instead, focus on calming activities.</li><li>Watch your diet: Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and choose lighter meals in the evening.</li><li>Seek professional help: If you’ve tried everything and still struggle to sleep, talk to a doctor. Sleep disorders are treatable, and you don’t have to suffer alone.</li></ul>

Be patient with yourself and make small changes to improve your sleep habits.&nbsp;

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/lifestyle/beauty-health/lack-of-sleep-affects-your-life-more-than-you-think/fd0v9n7">Lack of sleep affects your life more than you think</a>

This stressful cycle can make you feel stuck: you wake up groggy, drag yourself through the day, and then lie awake at night, watching the hours tick by.

Feeling tired all day but still struggling to fall asleep at night is something many people face.

Why you’re tired all day but can’t sleep at night 

As the year draws to a close, it&rsquo;s natural to reflect on what you&rsquo;ve achieved, the challenges you&rsquo;ve faced, and the growth you&rsquo;ve experienced.&nbsp;

This is a time for sober reflection, a moment to pause and think about the life you&rsquo;re living and the path you&rsquo;re taking. Reflection allows you to learn from your experiences, celebrate your wins, and make meaningful changes for the future.

Asking yourself the right questions can give you clarity about your priorities, help you uncover hidden lessons, and guide you toward a purposeful new year. It&rsquo;s not about being hard on yourself but rather about understanding where you stand and where you want to go.&nbsp;

Here are seven important questions to ask yourself before the year ends, with tips on how to explore them thoughtfully.

<h2>1. What are my biggest achievements this year?</h2>

Celebrate your wins, no matter how small they may seem. Did you learn a new skill, improve a relationship, or achieve a personal goal? Recognising these moments boosts your confidence and reminds you that progress matters more than perfection.

<h2>2. What challenges did I overcome?</h2>

Life isn&rsquo;t always easy, but every challenge you face builds resilience. Reflect on the obstacles you encountered and how you tackled them. What did you learn from these experiences? These lessons can prepare you for future hurdles.

<h2>3. What made me truly happy this year?</h2>

Happiness comes in many forms—time spent with loved ones, personal achievements, or quiet moments of peace. Identify the activities and people that brought you joy so you can focus more on them in the year ahead.

<h2>4. What didn’t go as planned, and why?</h2>

It&rsquo;s important to acknowledge what didn&rsquo;t work out. Were your goals realistic? Did unexpected events sidetrack you? Being honest about these moments allows you to adjust your approach without dwelling on disappointment.

<h2>5. Am I living in line with my values?</h2>

Your values are your compass in life. Reflect on whether your actions and decisions this year aligned with what you believe in. If not, consider what changes you can make to live more authentically.

<h2>6. What relationships do I need to nurture?</h2>

Think about the connections that matter most to you. Have you been showing enough love and support to the people in your life? Strengthening these bonds can bring more meaning and joy to your days.

<h2>7. What are my intentions for the new year?</h2>

This isn&rsquo;t about setting strict resolutions but rather identifying areas where you&rsquo;d like to grow or improve. What would make you feel more fulfilled, balanced, or successful? Start planning how you can make those intentions a reality.

Asking yourself these questions can help you close the year with a sense of purpose and clarity. Reflection isn&rsquo;t about judging yourself; it&rsquo;s about understanding your journey and preparing for the next chapter.

Here&rsquo;s to ending the year strong and stepping into the next with hope and intention.

ALSO READ:<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/gist/personal-development-6-things-to-do-before-the-end-of-the-year-2024080301242623696"> 6 things to do before the end of the year</a>

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Anna Ajayi

Articles written by the author

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