You Know Better: Why Simple Habits Protect Your Health

Growing up, my mum had a daily mantra:
“Drink more water.”
“Sit up straight.”
“Wash your hands before you eat.”
“Brush your teeth—it’s bedtime!”

For years, those reminders shaped my childhood. When I turned 18, they softened to:
“Are you eating properly?”
“Don’t sleep so late—it’s not good for you.”
And eventually, just: “You know better.”

The Freedom That Cost Me My Health

When I stepped into the working world, all those lessons went out the window. I was chasing success, pulling late nights, eating on the go, and telling myself, “I’m fine.”

It felt like freedom—until it wasn’t.

One day, I landed in the hospital with an intense migraine that lasted for days. Because I’m allergic to most painkillers, there was little the doctors could do. For nearly a week, I was forced to do nothing but rest.

The Wake-Up Call

Lying there, exhausted and in pain, I finally understood what my mum was really saying:
Eat well.
Get enough sleep.
Take care of yourself.

Those “small” habits I ignored? They were the foundation of my health—and I had neglected them for years.

Why the Basics Are Non-Negotiable

In the pursuit of career goals, social life, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to sacrifice the very habits that keep us functioning:
✔ Hydration — Drink water throughout the day. It impacts everything from brain function to energy levels.
✔ Sleep — Skipping rest isn’t a badge of honor; it’s a health risk.
✔ Nutrition — What you eat matters more than how much coffee you drink to stay awake.

They seem simple, but when ignored, the consequences are serious—chronic stress, fatigue, migraines, and long-term health issues.

The Lesson: You Know Better, So Do Better

I learned the hard way that “you know better” isn’t a guilt trip—it’s wisdom. The habits we take for granted are the ones that protect us the most.

So here’s your reminder: go back to the basics. Your body—and your future self—will thank you.

🔗 Resources:

https://www.nih.gov/sites/default/files/2024-12/physical-wellness-checklist.pdf