The Value of Investing In Yourself

As the year comes to a close and you start to consider your goals for 2024, it's worth considering the value of investing in yourself

Have you ever thought about your health as something worth investing in, just like your finances? Many of us diligently plan for our pensions, but what about the health we’ll need to enjoy those retirement years? With rising rates of chronic illness and increasing pressure on the NHS, taking charge of your health now is one of the smartest decisions you can make.

I recently had the privilege of joining the Century Planner Podcast to discuss how investing in your health complements financial planning. It struck me how similar the two are: just as compound interest allows small financial investments to grow into something significant over time, small health habits today can pay off in spades down the line. You can listen to the full podcast here.

As we approach 2025, let’s consider five ways to invest in yourself. After all, your health is the foundation for everything else in life.

1. Think of Your Health as a Long-Term Investment

We often hear about the importance of saving for retirement, but what’s the point of having financial security if your health prevents you from enjoying it? The reality is that we’re living longer, but not necessarily healthier. According to Public Health England, over 40% of Britons live with at least one chronic condition and that number is rising.

It’s easy to focus on the here and now, but like a pension, small efforts today can create a better future. Ask yourself: How do I feel now? How would I like to feel in the next 5, 10, or 20 years?

The good news is, you don’t have to think decades ahead. Start by setting health goals for the coming year. Would you like more energy, better sleep, or less stress? Small, consistent changes now can transform how you feel in the future.

If you’re not sure where to begin, I’ve created a free guide to help you assess where you are and discover simple steps to start feeling better. You can access it here.

2. Start Small and Stay Consistent

When it comes to improving your health, trying to do everything at once rarely works. It’s overwhelming, and you’re more likely to give up. Instead, focus on making one small change at a time.

Think of it like saving for retirement. Trying to save a lump sum at 60 is daunting, but setting aside smaller amounts from a younger age builds over time. Your health is no different.

Start with one manageable step:

Add an extra portion of veg to your meals.
Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning.
Go to bed 30 minutes earlier.
Take a short walk after lunch.

It’s these small, everyday habits that build momentum. Once you start noticing the benefits—like more energy, better sleep, or improved mood—you’ll feel encouraged to take on more.

What one thing will you commit to for the next two weeks?

3. Prioritise Preventative Care

We’re fortunate to have the NHS, but it’s no secret that getting timely appointments or access to care can be challenging. Preventative health is about taking steps now to reduce the risk of future problems and to ensure you stay in control of your well-being.

According to the British Heart Foundation, up to 80% of cases of heart disease and type 2 diabetes can be prevented with simple lifestyle changes. These include maintaining a healthy weight, balancing your diet, staying active, and managing stress.

Preventative care might involve:

Booking an annual health check to monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, or glucose levels.
Tracking your nutrient levels with blood tests for key vitamins like vitamin D and B12.
Seeking advice for low energy, recurring illnesses, or persistent stress before these issues escalate.

If you’re feeling run-down or unsure where to start, consider a health review, which is something I can help with. Taking control of your health now could save you a great deal of stress and hassle later.

4. Get Expert Support

Let’s be honest: making health changes can feel daunting. There’s so much conflicting advice out there, and it’s hard to know what’s right for you. This is where expert support can make all the difference.

A professional can help you:

Assess where you are and identify gaps in your current health.
Set realistic, tailored goals that work for your lifestyle.
Provide accountability and encouragement when things feel tough.

Think of it like hiring a financial advisor—not to do the work for you, but to ensure your efforts are directed in the right way. With guidance, those small steps become easier, more effective, and far less overwhelming.

If you’d like support in taking control of your health, you can learn more about my programmes here.

5. Build a Resilient Mindset

Your health isn’t just about what you eat or how much you move; it’s also about how you think. Life has a way of throwing curveballs, but building a resilient mindset helps you navigate challenges and stay committed to your goals.

Start with these simple practices:

Focus on what’s going well. Each day, write down one thing you’re grateful for.
Reframe setbacks. Instead of thinking, “I’ve failed,” try, “What can I learn from this?”
Visualise your future self. Picture yourself feeling stronger, more confident, and full of energy.

Change doesn’t happen overnight, and there will be bumps along the way. But the more you focus on progress, not perfection, the more empowered you’ll feel to keep going.

Your Health is Worth It

Investing in your health is one of the most valuable things you can do for yourself, your family, and your future. Just as you plan for financial security, it’s worth taking the time to build the foundations of good health.

Start small, stay consistent, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s downloading my free guide, booking a health check, or deciding to make one change today, every step counts.

Your health is the foundation for everything else. Let 2025 be the year you invest in yourself and see just how far those small changes can take you.

Author: Claire Thomas Registered Nutritional Therapist (BN (Hons), PGCert, PGCertEd, PGDiploma)

Categories: : boost your energy, health and wellness, investing in health