As a Nigerian, it is very easy for you to get carried away and fall victim to common lifestyle mistakes. This is so, especially with overexposure to western media influence, which most times does not sit well with our way of life.
This article will take you through some lifestyle pitfalls to avoid as a Nigerian and the world of good it will bring to you.
It is time to get down to the nitty-gritty of the discourse!
Table of Contents
Lifestyle Mistakes to Avoid as a Nigerian
There are some lifestyle mistakes peculiar to you as a Nigerian, which often affect your well-being in the long run. These lifestyle pitfalls are mostly a result of peer pressure and external influence. Most people either underrate or consider them unimportant.
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Unhealthy eating habits
This is one of the major lifestyle mistakes you should be wary of as a young Nigerian. Unfortunately, many Nigerians do not consider this a potential risk. This is because most do not see the need to always watch what they eat. As far as an average Nigerian is concerned, if it tastes good, then it must be good.
Very few Nigerians see the need to eat what is right and to eat at the right time. Most young Nigerians are unrepentant late-night eaters. For them, anything goes, and at any time of the day, they deem it fit.
This is not only a lifestyle mistake but one that also exposes you to many health problems, and thus must be avoided at all costs. One sure way to get rid of this if you are already deep into it is to ensure you eat right and at the right time.
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Lack of enough sleep
This is another lifestyle mistake that is silently killing most Nigerians. This is especially true for those who live in Lagos, the commercial capital of the country. If you are not careful, the hustle and bustle of Lagos could make you lose your sanity.
According to experts, one of the ways to have a healthy lifestyle is to have at least 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep daily. Is this truly achievable for a Lagos resident? It’s open for debate.
To beat the daily traffic, many Lagos residents have to battle between getting out of bed very early in the morning and returning late at night. It is sad, but that is what it is.
So, while it is necessary for you to strive and make a living, you should consider its impact on your health as well. There is never a substitute for a good night’s sleep. So, please sleep well!
Read also: How to sleep well and sleep enough
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Overexposure to smartphones
This is one of the destructive lifestyle mistakes that has found its way into our unconscious mindset. The average Nigerian youth checks their phones at the slightest opportunity. On the road, at the dining, during prayers; the list is just endless.
It’s impossible to dismiss the importance of a smartphone in today’s world of digitization. However, overexposure to these devices comes with some risks.
Too much exposure to the flashlight on your smartphone can affect the eyes. You also risk distractions whenever you attempt to check your phone at the slightest beep.
I agree that WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter notifications are no joke. You just have to be careful and try to avoid this lifestyle mistake by all means.
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Overworking
This is one of the lifestyle mistakes common to many Nigerians. “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.’’ Well, this saying is not a joke. You must learn to do things appropriately and in their right proportions. Work is good no doubt, but do not allow it to overshadow every other part of your existence.
Learn to rest, take a break, go for a walk, and take vacations. There is time for everything under the sun, don’t let your work life be the only thing that matters.
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Alcohol and drug abuse
Opinions may differ on the consumption of alcohol and other recreational drugs. The truth is, drug and alcohol abuse remains a red flag if you want to live an impeccable lifestyle.
Too much of everything is bad, hence alcohol and drugs shouldn’t be on your regular watch list. It’s a major lifestyle pitfall you need to avoid at all costs. If you must, consume as moderately as possible.
Never give in to the incessant cravings and peer pressure to lure young people into trying different kinds of mixtures. You don’t have to be among them.
Asides from the danger of addiction, most chronic alcohol and drug users end up as a menace to their immediate community. Nigeria is already battling the hazards of drug and substance abuse. Please do not add to it.
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Lack of exercise
As important as it is to eat and sleep well every day, regular exercise is also necessary to maintain a good and healthy lifestyle. This does not always mean going to the gym unless, of course, you want to.
Take a stroll to that short distance; you don’t have to take your car everywhere. Swim if you know how to. Go for a bicycle ride. Keep your body active and agile all the time.
Read also: Amazing benefits of taking periodic walks
Do physical tasks that would make you sweat reasonably. If you have the time and can afford it, please register in a gym where an instructor can guide you and monitor your progress. Exercise is good for your health; experts have said this several times.
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Shying away from periodic medical checkups
This is another important lifestyle habit most Nigerians don’t take seriously. I can’t blame most people. The health sector in the country doesn’t make it easy.
But no matter the situation, take time from your ever-busy schedule to see a doctor and get yourself checked. Afterwards, ensure you take every medical advice and prescription. Do not wait till things get out of hand. A stitch in time saves nine.
Read also: The emergence of digital healthcare platforms in Nigeria
Conclusion
It is important to take your lifestyle seriously as a Nigerian. Be wary of lifestyle mistakes that come along the way as you navigate through daily activities. This is because too much exposure to these pitfalls can negatively affect your life in the long run.
Being aware of these lifestyle mistakes and avoiding them will do you a world of good. Because failure to do so can ruin your health or peace of mind.
There are more lifestyle mistakes that are peculiar to Nigerians. If you think of something, you can propose a conversation on our WhatsApp community. You can also Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on more insightful content.
About Author
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A certified Digital Marketer who is also a passionate and enthusiastic writer, writing creative content that resonates with my audience.
Identifying innovative approaches and improved solutions to business challenges motivates and drives me.
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