Top 10 Life Hacks I Learned This Year (And Wish I Knew Sooner)

As we wrap up another year, I can’t help but reflect on the nuggets of wisdom—both profound and small—that 2024 has gifted me. This is a look back at the year, and also a survival guide for my future self. In no particular order here it is:

1. When in Doubt, Overpack (But Strategically)

Having a baby means I’ve now mastered the art of packing for every possible scenario. Forgot wipes? Disaster. Overpacked wipes and ended up not using half? Still better than disaster. This year taught me to carry what I might need that doesn’t equate to my entire house. Packing cubes and bags with lots of compartments are lifesavers.

2. The "Do It Now" Rule Is Magic

If it takes less than two minutes to do, just do it. Whether it’s doing the dishes, replying to an email, folding a stray blanket, or refilling the water filter, these tiny tasks add up if left undone. I learned that procrastination isn’t just about big projects—it’s also about the pile of dirty laundry staring at me with judgmental eyes.

3. Use “Focus Time” on Your Phone

This little feature helps me keep my focus. Blocking notifications for a few hours not only boosted my productivity but also reduced my urge to scroll mindlessly. Bonus: I felt way more present during moments with my family or friends.

4. Breakfast Sets The Tone

There’s nothing better to kickstart your day than a full and balanced breakfast. My ideal morning plate now consists of a buttered bagel, 2 eggs, avo and maybe some veggies from the fridge. I used to eat cereals and yogurt+fruit bowls (which I still love once in a while) but since embracing savoury choices, the difference is undeniable. I’m satiated, more focused afterwards, and less likely to have a sugar hit by 10am. When juggling work, life, and a tiny human, that stability feels like a superpower.

5. A Timer Turns Mundane Chores Into a Challenge

Dreading doing life admin or taxes? Set a timer for 10 minutes and race yourself. It’s a psychological trick that’s oddly motivating and makes chores feel less endless. Bonus: This also works for tidying up after a chaotic day where the living-room looks like it’s been hit by a tornado.

6. The Power of Saying “No” (Withouts justification)

This year, I embraced the joy of skipping things. Overcommitting is so 5 years ago. Politely declining plans or requests gave me more time for things that actually matter, like quiet time with bub, writing, Netflix marathons, or—let’s be honest—sleep.

7. Invest in Quality (Especially Shoes)

2024 reminded me that I’m too old for blisters or cheap stuff that breaks after one use. It’s also a small part we can do to become conscious consumers for the environment. Whether it’s baby gear or sneakers, buying quality over quantity saved money and sanity in the long run.

8. Gratitude Should Be Embodied

While I’ve been writing down three things I’m grateful for every night, this can become a stagnant practice, if you’re not embodying the gratitude. By using visualisation and feeling the gratitude permeate my body, I’ve shifted my perspective in ways I didn’t expect. A solid gratitude practice made me appreciate the small joys in the chaos and enjoy the large milestones even more.

9. You Can’t Pour From an Empty Cup (Self-Care Is Non-Negotiable)

Cliché? Maybe. True? Absolutely. Whether it’s a 10-minute meditation, a long walk, or sneaking in a solo coffee run, prioritising my mental health made me a better parent, partner, and person.

10. Unsubscribe Ruthlessly

From email newsletters to that one streaming service you never watch anymore, I learned that simplifying my digital and mental space is priceless. Clutter—physical or virtual—is sneaky stress.

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2024 might’ve been a whirlwind, but isn’t that the beauty of life? The ups, downs, and all the unexpected in-betweens remind us that we’re constantly growing and evolving. Each year brings its own lessons and opportunities to reflect, reset, and strive for better. I hope that as you look back on this year, you can see the moments of joy, strength, and resilience that brought you here, and I hope you step into the new year with hope, clarity, and excitement for what’s to come.

Wishing you and your loved ones a heartfelt Happy New Year! May it be everything you need it to be, and then some.