The start of a new year ushers in a flurry of activity for HR professionals. From Affordable Care Act filings and 401k audits to rolling out new policies and setting new goals, it’s a time of change and improvement. Unfortunately, it can also be a time of increased stress. For many HR experts, the pressure to overhaul how they do everything — in the office and at home — can lead to high levels of anxiety. There’s a better way.

As you tackle your must-do list, be careful about adding a whole new slate of ground-breaking, but optional tasks. Instead of crafting grand resolutions that could leave you feeling a bit inadequate, consider smart priorities that keep you energized. Here are 7 tips to help you live your best life — no matter what time of year it is.

Reflect and connect: Instead of writing a long list of ways you want to change, take a moment to consider what you’ve experienced, learned, and are grateful for. This shift in perspective can highlight the importance of quality time with loved ones, which can be a great stress reliever.

Make a plan: Evaluate your accomplishments and challenges from the past year. Reflect on what worked well and identify areas for growth. This honest assessment will provide a clear picture of where you stand and what you need to improve. Then, set achievable and measurable goals by breaking them into smaller, manageable steps. This will help you stay focused and motivated.

Don’t forget to give yourself grace along the way and celebrate each step forward, no matter how small. Recognizing and appreciating your efforts can keep you energized and committed to your goals.

Be realistic: Don’t aim for perfection. Remember that what you see on social media are cherry-picked moments filled with enhancements. There’s no need to compare your real world to the carefully curated one others want you to see. Instead, set realistic expectations that focus on your own progress and understand that if things don’t go exactly as planned, that's okay.

Simplify: While you may want to tackle many new tasks and hobbies, you can’t do everything. Be intentional about where you place your energy. This will allow you to focus on and make progress in a few areas that truly matter to you, without adding unnecessary stress.

Practice mindfulness: As you plan for positive change, be sure to prioritize your well-being. That means getting enough sleep, eating healthily, and exercising. A mindfulness practice — such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga — is also a great way to reduce stress and calm your mind.

Budget wisely: Now that the holiday season has passed, it's crucial to take a step back and thoroughly reevaluate your budget. As you plan for the new year, review your overall financial situation. Create a detailed budget plan that outlines your expenses and sets a spending limit for each category.

Make sure to factor in any upcoming financial commitments or goals. Sticking to this budget can help you regain financial stability and provide the peace of mind that comes with being in control of finances.

Create boundaries: Whether it’s work or personal, don’t overcommit yourself. Learn to say no, share responsibilities, and set clear boundaries to help maintain a healthy work-life balance. It’s also important to communicate your limits and delegate tasks when possible, trusting others to handle responsibilities. This not only reduces your workload but also empowers others around you.

Establishing boundaries also means recognizing when to switch off from work. In the digital age, it can be tempting to stay connected around the clock, but this can lead to burnout. Make a conscious effort to disconnect, allowing yourself time to recharge and rejuvenate.

While you plan for the new year and all that comes with it, always remember that it’s perfectly acceptable to prioritize your mental well-being. That means if you feel overwhelmed, talk to someone or seek support. This commitment to taking care of yourself may be the most important change you make all year. Also, while you enhance your mental health, consider taking a moment to read the most recent State of Workforce Mental Health Report.